James Kleimann on the CFPB’s RFI and NAR’s membership numbers
May 31, 2024
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Managing Editor James Kleimann discusses the CFPB’s RFI on mortgage 'junk fees' and NAR's membership decline. Topics include the impact of regulations on fees, consumer choices, third-party vendor fees, rising credit score costs, NYC rat problems, and NAR's membership fluctuations.
CFPB's RFI on mortgage 'junk fees' raises concerns about consumer control over title insurance and credit checks.
NAR's membership decline of 45,000 indicates industry resilience amidst evolving market dynamics and commission structures.
Deep dives
Effects of CFPB's RFI on Mortgage Fees
The CFPB's Request for Information on mortgage junk fees raises concerns within the industry about fees perceived as 'junk' by consumers. The discussion delves into the industry's perspective on fees like title insurance and credit checks, generally attributed to investor requirements or federal guidelines. While the industry acknowledges the consumer's lack of control over such fees, there's a debate on whether these costs advantage consumers, hinting at the complexity of fee structures.
Challenges with Credit Reporting Fees
Amidst discussions on credit reporting costs, the CFPB scrutinizes how these fees impact consumers and who profits from them. The focus is on the rising closing costs and the impact on housing affordability, notably pointing out third-party vendor fees passed on to borrowers. The industry faces challenges with increasing credit report fees and the inability to absorb these expenses without passing them on to consumers, highlighting the interconnectedness of costs and mortgage rates.
Consumer Impact of Rising Fees
The rising costs in the housing market, including closing costs, contribute to decreased credit access and lower home affordability for borrowers. The implications of the fees, such as title insurance and appraisal management costs, underscore the need for regulatory scrutiny to ensure consumer protection and market competition. The podcast reflects on how these costs affect borrowers' budgets, emphasizing the need for transparency and consumer empowerment.
Membership Trends and Implications for Realtors
The National Association of Realtors' membership decline of about 45,000 since December raises questions about industry dynamics and market conditions. Despite ongoing challenges, the decline signifies less than 3% of NAR members opting not to renew, indicating some resilience in membership. The discussion highlights the link between market activity, earnings for real estate agents, and NAR membership, anticipating potential shifts in agent numbers amid changing commission structures and market trends.
On today’s episode, Editor in Chief Sarah Wheeler talks with Managing Editor James Kleimann about the CFPB’s new Request for information on mortgage “junk fees” and what we know about the number of Realtors who have left the profession since the start of the year.
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