Mortgage Credit Availability Shows Slight Increase in August

Understanding the Mortgage Credit Availability Index

Securing a mortgage is a significant milestone on the path to homeownership, but it's not always easy to access credit. Mortgage lending standards can fluctuate, impacting borrowers' ability to obtain loans. The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) keeps a close eye on these changes through its Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI).

The MCAI is a monthly measure that tracks whether mortgage lending standards are becoming more lenient or more strict. When the index increases, it signals that standards have loosened, making it easier for borrowers to secure financing. Conversely, a decrease in the index indicates that standards have tightened, requiring borrowers to be more financially prepared for loan approval.

August Sees a Slight Increase

In August, the MCAI showed a positive trend, with a modest 0.3% increase compared to the previous month. This uptick is an encouraging sign for prospective homebuyers, as it suggests that access to credit may be becoming more attainable.

Joel Kan, MBA's Vice President and Chief Economist, shed light on the factors contributing to this improvement. He noted: “The overall increase was driven by an increased number of loan programs that included parameters such as cash-out refinances and mid-range credit scores.” This is indicative of a broader range of options for borrowers.

Gains in Jumbo Loans

One notable aspect of the August MCAI report was the substantial gain in the component measuring jumbo loans. The jumbo MCAI increased by an impressive 2.7 percent compared to the previous month. Jumbo loans are mortgages that exceed the conforming loan limits set by federal agencies like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The rise in the jumbo MCAI is a positive sign for borrowers seeking larger mortgage amounts, as it suggests that lenders are becoming more accommodating in this category.

What Borrowers Need to Know

For borrowers, understanding the implications of the MCAI is crucial when navigating the mortgage market. The index highlights that access to credit can change over time, which means it's important to monitor these fluctuations if you're planning to apply for a mortgage.

The increase in loan programs, including cash-out refinances and mid-range credit score options, offers borrowers a wider array of choices. This diversity can be particularly advantageous for those who may not fit traditional lending criteria.

If you're considering a jumbo loan, the substantial increase in the jumbo MCAI indicates that lenders are more willing to offer these larger mortgage options. This could be an excellent opportunity for borrowers seeking high-value properties.

It's important to note that while credit availability may be improving, lenders still maintain certain standards. Therefore, prospective homebuyers should stay informed about changes in lending criteria and explore various loan programs to find the one that best suits their financial situation. As the mortgage landscape evolves, being prepared and adaptable is key to securing the financing needed to achieve homeownership.

(Source: mba.org)