Good Morning! Today is Monday, September 19. France recalled its ambassadors from Britain and the U.S. in protest of their secret negotiations with Australia. Natural gas prices are surging, prompting fears about winter shortages. The Biden administration began deporting thousands of Haitians awaiting immigration processing in Texas.
And in mortgage and housing news…
Will Fed Meeting Affect Interest Rates?: The FOMC is meeting September 21 and 22 to discuss next steps on monetary policy. It probably won’t affect interest rates.
Home Sales Down: RE/MAX’s August Annual Housing Report suggests that while the market may still be hot, the busiest months of 2021 may be behind us.
Consumer Sentiment Up: Consumer sentiment steadied in September after plunging to its lowest level in almost a decade. But consumers remain skeptical as inflation ramps up around the country.
Renters In Trouble: A CFPB report found that renters are at higher risk of post-pandemic financial problems than homeowners.
Clash Over FHFA Head: Maxine Waters pushed President Biden to keep Sandra Thompson as FHFA director amid rumors he’s considering someone else…
“Improving Homeownership Rates”: …and the new head would have enormous power over the way Americans build generational wealth moving forward, according to NPR.
Rents Rising: Some New Yorkers face 70% rent increases when their leases come up for renewal, Bloomberg reported.
Expect The Unexpected: Mortgage servicers need to be ready to assist borrowers impacted by natural disasters. Here are some tips.