According to the Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI), a report from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) indicates that February resulted in a slight increase in mortgage credit availability.

The MCAI increased 0.7 percent to 118.6 in February. This slight increase in the index indicates that credit is loosening, while a decrease would indicate that lending standards would tighten.

The MBA’s Chief Economist stated, “Credit availability improved marginally in February, led by further increases in jumbo loan programs, and additional take-up of Fannie Mae’s 97 LTV program. More than half of investors are now offering a 97 LTV program, and Freddie Mac announced that their program will be available in mid-March. In terms of conforming credit, this was offset by somewhat tighter constraints on cash-out loans and investors with multiple financed properties.”

It’s good news for consumers seeking to borrow money in order to buy real estate and that’s good news for everyone!