Loan Think

The rise of digital mortgages and increasing lender consolidation are just two reasons mortgage brokers should make the transition to mortgage banking sooner rather than later.

Although he has since walked-back his original pledge to deport 11 million people, if President-elect Donald Trump attempts to fulfill his campaign promise, the damage to the housing industry would be substantial.

While President-elect Donald Trump already faces numerous potential conflicts-of-interest between his businesses and the presidency, his real estate ties and campaign promises raise serious questions about his approach to the housing industry.

The election results will only intensify factors making competition with bank lenders more difficult, including the effect of interest rates as well as the regulatory environment.

Regulatory costs may be warranted, but neither Congress nor the executive branch assessed the cost of the Dodd-Frank Act before its enactment.

Even with Republicans controlling both Congress and the White House, it's highly unlikely the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will be completely eliminated. However, under the new presidential administration's oversight, many of its more aggressive policies will likely change.

The president-elect faces major questions about credit access, affordable housing, the future of Dodd-Frank and the structure of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the extent to which he will act upon them remains unclear.

The historic election has presented an opportunity for a comprehensive overhaul of the housing finance system after eight years of gridlock.

Lenders have the most consumer-facing role in the mortgage industry. By adopting three cultural adjustments, they can introduce more diversity into the workforce and create sustainable businesses and stronger communities.

The Federal Reserve has maintained historically low interest rates for too long, causing superficially high prices in housing and other assets. The outcome of the presidential election will likely decide whether the Fed maintains the status quo or embraces risk and raises rates.