This week’s focus is on credit report fees, which are under fire as the Mortgage Bankers Association calls for reform in how credit data is handled in mortgage originations. At the same time, a troubling new report shows that over half of American renters remain cost-burdened in high-rent states like California and Florida. On a more personal note, a popular podcast episode featuring Megan Anderson offers a heartfelt glimpse into the life transitions many in the industry can relate to. These stories collectively speak to the pressures and possibilities shaping today’s housing and lending environment.
MBA Slams Credit Reporting Price Hikes, Renews Push to End Tri-Merge
Read the Full Story → MBA
The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) is sounding the alarm over steep increases in credit report fees by the three national bureaus. In a strongly worded press release, the group criticized the bureaus for acting like a government-sanctioned oligopoly and using their dominance to implement unjustified pricing models that directly impact consumers and lenders.
At the center of the issue is the long-standing requirement to use “tri-merge” credit reports—one from each bureau—for most mortgage originations. The MBA argues that modern data systems make this outdated and inefficient. Instead, they advocate for a “single-merge” model, which would provide cost savings and reduce complexity without sacrificing risk assessment.
MBA President and CEO Bob Broeksmit urged regulators to open a federal investigation into these practices, citing anti-competitive behavior. The MBA is pushing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to revise their requirements, and is calling for action from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to support fairer credit access across the industry.
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Half of Renters Are Still Cost-Burdened — Especially in Key States
Read the Full Story → Eye On Housing
New U.S. Census data analyzed by the National Association of Home Builders shows that 50.3% of renters nationwide—over 23 million households—spend 30% or more of their income on rent and utilities. These “cost-burdened” renters are particularly concentrated in states like Florida (60%), California (55%), and Nevada (57%).
In contrast, only 24.3% of homeowners are cost-burdened, a sign that ownership continues to offer long-term financial stability, especially in lower interest environments. Among owner-occupied households, the cost burden is highest in California, where about 33% exceed the 30% income threshold.
These statistics underscore the growing affordability divide and suggest that many renters remain on financially shaky ground. While mortgage rates and home prices dominate headlines, this report brings attention back to the broader housing crisis—particularly for low- and middle-income Americans.
Podcast Spotlight: Megan Anderson’s Journey from Van Life to Europe and Beyond
Read the Full Story → Mortgage Loan Officer Podcast
In a moving conclusion to her three-part series, Megan Anderson—formerly with MBS Highway—shares the personal growth that emerged from her one-year journey living in a van. Now passing through Spain and traveling across Europe, she’s taking time to reflect before returning to the U.S. for the next chapter of her life.
The episode explores themes of identity, ambition, and clarity. She explains how letting go of status and routine led to a clearer sense of purpose—and how that internal shift is now reshaping the way she thinks about success in the mortgage industry.
This story resonates because it’s not just about quitting a job or traveling abroad—it’s about reinvention. For many mortgage and real estate professionals, it serves as a reminder that true growth sometimes means stepping into the unknown. Anderson’s vulnerability makes this more than a podcast—it’s a message of hope for anyone seeking more meaning in their career.
Frank’s Thoughts
The MBA’s stance on credit report fees shows that industry advocacy matters. It’s encouraging to see leadership speak out when systems no longer serve borrowers or professionals.
These cost-burdened renter stats? They’re not just numbers—they’re people stuck in cycles they want out of. And we’re the ones who can help them move toward ownership.
Megan’s story hit home. She didn’t just travel—she transformed. Her courage reminds us that it’s okay to pause, reflect, and pivot. There’s power in choosing your path, even when it looks unconventional.
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