The number of mortgage jobs was up by 2,300 positions in July, according to data released Friday by the U.S. Department of Labor. Headcount in “real estate credit” was up by nearly 3,000 jobs. But “mortgage and nonmortgage loan brokers” saw their numbers decline by around 500 positions, the government data indicated.
Wrong-headed regulators
I have an article up today — “Want to refinance? Know the details” — in which I describe the Home Affordable Refinance program as confusing.
2010 Bankruptcies Top 1 Million
Consumer bankruptcy filings during August fell 8 percent from July, the American Bankruptcy Institute reported. The decline followed a bounce in July. Year-to-date Aug. 31, 2010, filings totaled 1,034,843.
5 keys to automatic retirement plans
If you’re saving for retirement, know these five things about automatic enrollment 401(k) plans.
Home, condo rentals trim vacation costs
Renting a home or condominium can make your next vacation less expensive and more luxurious.
Reverse Originations Gaining Steam
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported last week that reverse mortgage originations climbed to 5,901 loans for a maximum claim amount of $1.5 billion in July from 5,304 loans endorsed for $1.3 billion a month earlier. It was the second month in a row of gains. In August, according to the Reverse Market Insight newsletter, reverse mortgage production increased 13 percent.
Stock up on staples for pennies
This month’s Frugal Sense winner spends mere pennies to stock up on staples like toothpaste.
Mortgage mods for profit
Mortgage rates have held fairly steady since the middle of last week.
Public Debate on Revisions to FHA Guidelines
The public was invited on July 15 to comment on three U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development initiatives designed to help restore the Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund capital reserve account. More than 900 comments were received by the comment deadline on Aug. 16, a public filing Friday said. The “overwhelming majority” of the comments addressed the proposed 3 percent limitation on seller concessions.
Rate trends and firecrackers
A reader named Cindy asks: “Are mortgage rates predicted to go down next week? What things should I be considering before going ahead?”