Blogs
The Digital Shift: Streamlining the Closing Table: Blog 3 of 4
Discover how President Trump’s March 2026 Executive Order on Promoting Access to Mortgage Credit drives digital mortgage modernization. Part Three explores eliminating wet signatures, standardizing remote online notarization (RON), e-signatures, e-notes, and streamlining the right to rescission - making closings faster, cheaper, and fully digital for borrowers, lenders, and community banks in 2026.
Underwriting the "Vacation" Reality: Spotting Occupancy Red Flags
Discover key red flags in occupancy fraud for second homes vs investment properties in 2026. Learn how expert contract underwriting spots proximity issues, financial inconsistencies, and insurance tells to prevent mortgage fraud and ensure Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac compliance amid rising risks.
Non-Occupant Co-Borrowers: Fannie Mae vs. Freddie Mac
Explore 2026 Fannie Mae vs Freddie Mac non-occupant co-borrower guidelines: Compare LTV limits up to 95%, DTI blending via DU, Home Possible program perks, and how family co-signers boost qualification in today's housing market with rising "Bank of Mom and Dad" support.
Unlocking Equity: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Cash-Out Refinance Requirements
Navigate 2026 Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac cash-out refinance rules, including 12-month seasoning and max LTV limits (80% primary, 75% second/investment). Discover how The Commonwealth Group's expert contract underwriting and processing help lenders close compliant loans faster.
Unlocking Affordable Homeownership: Manufactured Housing Lending with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Learn how Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac make manufactured housing more affordable with MH Advantage®, CHOICEHome®, up to 97% LTV, 3% down payments, and Duty to Serve programs. Guide for lenders on real-estate-titled loans.
The Stifling Grip of Dodd-Frank: How Regulations Are Hindering Innovation in Mortgage Affordability
The Dodd-Frank Act, intended to stabilize the financial system post-2008 crisis, has instead imposed rigid regulations that stifle mortgage innovation, increase compliance costs, and hinder affordability for everyday homebuyers. The Commonwealth Group is here to be the voice that advocates for mortgage empowering policies.
HUD Proposes Rescinding Disparate Impact Rule: Impacts for Mortgage Lenders 2026
HUD's January 2026 proposal to rescind disparate impact regulations under the Fair Housing Act could reduce burdens for mortgage lenders. Explore implications for fair lending compliance, litigation risks, and next steps from The Commonwealth Group.
Embracing the Future: The Commonwealth Group and CondoAnalytics Look Ahead to 2026
As we step into 2026, The Commonwealth Group and CondoAnalytics are excited to lead the mortgage industry forward with our guiding pillars: Respect, Innovation, and Trust.
Dear Santa: The Commonwealth Group Christmas Wish List for a Brighter 2026
On behalf of every professional in the Mortgage Industry, this is our Wish List to Santa- From The Commonwealth.
Mortgage Trends for 2026: A Gradual Thaw in a Cooling Market
2026 Mortgage Trends: Low-6% Rates & Refi Surge Ahead- Your Prep Guide.