By Aryne + Dulcinea, October 1, 2018
By Aaron Nawrocki, Capital M Lending
As interest rates rise slightly and price growth slows, we see the typical increase in all types of mortgage fraud. According to CoreLogic, aggregate fraud risk has risen each of the last six quarters. Outright forgery is still the most popular type of loan fraud. Occupancy fraud is next, followed by Identity theft.
Mortgage fraud typically rises in tandem with interest rates. Higher interest rates reduce the number of refinance transactions; they have a lower incidence of fraud. Purchase transactions are more likely to be fraudulent, buyers have an incentive to “push the envelope” as there’s more at stake. Higher interest rates and rising values also make qualification more difficult. Rising values bring in speculators hoping to buy and sell quickly for a profit.
This was especially true in the “boom” years of 2004-2006, when buyers wanted to buy as many properties as possible, for the largest profit. To buy more homes with less down payment, these buyers were guilty of occupancy-related mortgage fraud, using owner-occupied loans even though they had no intention of ever occupying them. These small down payment loans had higher monthly mortgage payments. When the market turned, the buyers were unable to make the payments and these speculative purchases were a high percentage of total foreclosures. Although these loans created enormous losses, there was very little enforcement. Often, it was challenging for lenders to access the data that would document the occupancy fraud and they frequently did not want to expose inadequate quality control policies that should have caught the fraud at application.
It will be interesting to see what enforcement looks like this time, when the market turns and defaults rise. Mortgage lenders, the FBI and the CFPB now have access to so much more data to document false applications. This has made identity theft and outright forgery much more difficult for fraudsters to execute. Lenders have sophisticated cross-referencing software that creates red flags when there are mismatches in identification data. However, because occupancy fraud is only committed after closing, it’s been more challenging for banks to track.
It’s now easy for banks to track and see if purchased home is occupied, referencing DMV records for change of address, utility bills, public record information for owner’s address, etc. If there are allegations of fraud or tax evasion, the IRS can share information about rental activity on Schedule E of the tax returns. This may create a different dynamic than in 2009, as a fraudulent application allows the lender to call the note due and begin foreclosure proceedings immediately, without having to follow the typical waiting periods.
Of course, when prices are rising and payments are being made, fraud is often concealed. When the market eventually turns and defaults rise, we’ll see whether lenders use anti-fraud tools to mitigate losses and collect more quickly. As Warren Buffett said, Only when the tide goes out do you discover who’s been swimming naked…
Aaron Nawrocki has over 20 years of direct experience overseeing mortgage and loan processes, working to provide clients the market insight and lending expertise required to make informed decisions.
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Over the course of their professional partnership, Aryne + Dulcinea have helped over 200 clients prosper in their new lives. During this time, they have prided themselves in their top-notch selling abilities, with homes outperforming market standards, consistently exceeding list price while most of their listings sell in under 7 days. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching your real estate goals.
Aryne + Dulcinea
Earth Advantage Principal Broker | Earth Advantage Broker | ADU Specialists | OR
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Aryne + Dulcinea are full-service, high-producing agents, who understand how to navigate the unique challenges facing the Portland real estate market. The secret to their success is in their professionalism and complementary skill sets. In 2012, Aryne + Dulcinea saw an opportunity to combine their creative and technical wisdom to create a values-driven, full-service agency unlike any other. Expert negotiators and project management mavens with a strong background in creative marketing, Aryne + Dulcinea serve as fierce advocates for their clients.
Their passion for real estate relates closely to their commitment to the Portland way of life, which entails a dedication to sustainability and appreciation for all things local. As Earth Advantage Brokers and ADU Certified Specialists, Aryne + Dulcinea are savvy in all aspects of alternative living practices—from versatile housing additions, green building practices, and revenue-generating strategies. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Aryne & Dulcinea will work in collaboration to guide you in investing in your future and reaching you real estate goals.
Aryne greets working with clients throughout Portland with open arms. Licensed since 2005, she appreciates the ever shifting desires her clients have as they move through their real estate goals. Investigative genius on her side, Aryne will strive to bring you the results you desire. When not working for you, Aryne is a constant cheerleader for her son and daughter’s pursuits on the basketball court and on the ballet stage! She practices yoga, hikes, loves to walk and explore Portland neighborhoods, reads, and delights in soaking up everything Portland has to offer!
Dulcinea thrives on working with clients with a range of real estate goals. Oregon born, with a design and an award-winning professional background, Dulcinea is steadfast when it comes to working for her clients and has a keen eye for properties that best serve client objectives. Licensed since 2013, Dulcinea works in and around Portland. A mother of two and wife to her high school sweetie—in her free time she stays busy with her family, travel, community activism, exploring the outdoors, curating art shows, and dreaming big!
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