2.4.26 CFPB Update; Curinos' Ken Flaherty, Josh Beane, and Rich Martin on Data; MBA Mortgage Applications

Welcome to The Chrisman Commentary, your go-to daily mortgage news podcast, where industry insights meet expert analysis. Hosted by Robbie Chrisman, this podcast delivers the latest updates on mortgage rates, capital markets, and the forces shaping the housing finance landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to stay informed, you'll get clear, concise breakdowns of market trends and economic shifts that impact the mortgage world.

In today’s episode, we go through the latest update from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Plus, Robbie sits down with Curinos' Ken Flaherty, Josh Beane, and Rich Martin for a discussion on key 2025 performance trends across first mortgage, home equity, and unsecured lending, as well as 2026 forecasts and assumptions for each vertical, and the strategic priorities lenders should focus on to grow profitably in the year ahead. And we close by talking about why we've seen a drop in mortgage applications.

Thank you to Truework, the one verification solution to replace in-house waterfalls. Verify any borrower with a VOIE solution that automates the entire process to quickly deliver the most accurate and complete reports with broad GSE coverage.

Transcript

“I used to brag about how late I stayed up at conferences. Now I brag about how early I went to bed.” Have you ever seen a group of mortgage lenders on the last morning of a 3-day conference? Well, here is the equivalent in the animal kingdom, and it’s not even iguanas plummeting from trees. Besides the end of the quick lived shutdown, and the continued M&A environment (Own Up to be acquired by Experian being the latest example) one of the topics in the hallways at the IMB, especially seeing that it is in Florida, is the increasing importance and quality of manufactured housing. Heck, as a quick example, just check out these photos from Champion Homes. Folks at the IMB are talking about yet another housing story: “Builders Push ‘Trump Homes’ in a Pitch for One Million Homes.” Although the White House denies actively considering it, that denial could change with one tweet. The “rent to own” concept comes and goes and certainly is an option in many places that are trying to improve the supply and affordability. Critics are quick to point out that builders are already sitting on unsold inventory, are offering incentives, the demand has weakened, and the prices are exorbitant given local permitting and utility hook ups. (Today’s podcast can be found here and this week’s are sponsored by Truework, the one verification solution to replace in-house waterfalls. Verify any borrower with a VOIE solution that automates the entire process to quickly deliver the most accurate and complete reports with broad GSE coverage. Today’s features interview with Curinos' Ken Flaherty, Josh Beane, and Rich Martin on key 2025 performance trends across first mortgage, home equity, and unsecured lending, as well as 2026 forecasts and assumptions for each vertical, and the strategic priorities lenders should focus on to grow profitably in the year ahead.)

Jobs and transitions

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Our partners at a well-capitalized, nationally active non-QM lender are expanding and looking to add experienced Non-QM Account Executives to its wholesale sales team. This is a rare opportunity to build real momentum in one of the fastest growing and most profitable niches in mortgage. You’ll join a stable organization with a strong leadership team, low turnover, and a proven culture that resonates with top producers. This team gives AEs the autonomy, tools, and support to stand out and win. Compensation is performance-driven with no cap, meaningful transition support, and upside that top performers are already realizing. The role is fully remote, relationship-driven through calls and email, and supported by a strong CRM and marketing engine. If you’re an experienced non-QM AE looking to separate yourself and build something meaningful, this is the platform to do it. Email confidential resumes to jobs@chrismancommentary.com for forwarding to the principal.

A confidential sales opportunity in the lending industry! A leading service provider to the lending industry is seeking experienced sales professionals with a demonstrated ability to develop and close new business. The ideal candidates have a proven track record selling into banks, credit unions, or mortgage lenders and bring established industry relationships. A minimum of five years of lending industry service sales experience is required. This opportunity is best suited for self-directed professionals who can leverage their network to consistently generate revenue. If interested, please send your resume to Chrisman LLC’s Anjelica Nixt and specify this opportunity.

loanDepot continues to attract top talent with the addition of David Patrick as Retail Branch Manager in Oklahoma City. Patrick brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across the real estate, mortgage, and title industries, including senior roles at Titan Title & Closing and Chicago Title Oklahoma. At loanDepot, he’ll focus on driving regional growth and developing talented teams across the OKC market. Patrick is a 2022 graduate of the prestigious Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Abe Lemons Leadership Award program and was appointed to the organization’s Board of Directors that same year, reflecting his commitment to excellence and community involvement. Sales leaders interested in exploring opportunities with loanDepot are encouraged to contact Shane Stanton.

Primis Mortgage continues to expand its national presence with the addition of Chad Royle as market leader for Colorado and the western region. With more than 25 years of experience in multistate mortgage and retail banking leadership, Royle is recognized for his data‑driven approach, strong recruiting capabilities, and commitment to developing high‑performing teams. Leadership at Primis noted that Royle’s expertise and proven ability to build and grow markets make him well‑positioned to establish a strong footprint in this high‑growth area. Royle was drawn to Primis’ differentiated model, one built on empowering team members, streamlining operations, and delivering exceptional customer experiences. As Primis expands west, it is targeting high‑performing originators and leaders who value a streamlined platform, and a company truly invested in their growth. Mortgage professionals aiming to unlock the next level of their careers are invited to explore what Primis Mortgage has to offer on the Prmis website.

(Market data provided in partnership with MBS Live. For free job postings and to view candidate resumes, visit the Chrisman Job Board. This newsletter is intended for sophisticated mortgage professionals only. There are no paid endorsements by me. For the latest mortgage news, visit Mortgage News Daily. For archived commentaries, or to subscribe, go to www.ChrismanCommentary.com. Copyright 2026 Chrisman LLC. All rights reserved. Paid job & product listings do appear. This report or any portion hereof may not be reprinted, sold, or redistributed without the written consent of Rob Chrisman. The views and opinions in this newsletter are mine alone unless otherwise specifically stated herein.)