New forbearance requests remain at extremely low level – MBA

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MBA reported that the percentage of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans in forbearance was down four basis points to 2.05%, and Ginnie Mae loans in forbearance dipped seven basis points to 5.15%. The forbearance share for portfolio loans and private-label securities (PLS) plunged 35 basis points to 7.98%. The percentage of loans in forbearance for independent mortgage bank (IMB) servicers fell 16 basis points to 4.05%, and the percentage of loans in forbearance for depository servicers declined three basis points to 4.16%.

Fratantoni noted that new forbearance requests, at four basis points, remained at an extremely low level.

“More than 44% of borrowers who exited this week used a deferral plan, highlighting the importance of this option,” he said.  “As more homeowners reach the end of their forbearance term, we should continue to see the share in forbearance decline. The improving job market and strong housing market are providing support for those who do exit.”