On August 17, 2023, the CFPB took action against Freedom Mortgage Corporation (Freedom) for providing illegal incentives to real estate brokers and agents in exchange for mortgage loan referrals.  According to the CFPB, Freedom provided real estate agents and brokers with numerous incentives, including cash payments, paid subscription services, and catered parties, with the understanding they would refer prospective homebuyers to Freedom for mortgage loans. 

On February 7, 2023, the CFPB issued an advisory opinion to protect Americans from double dealing on digital mortgage comparison-shopping platforms. According to the CFPB, companies operating these digital platforms appear to shoppers as if they provide objective lender comparisons, but may illegally refer people to only those lenders paying referral fees. The advisory opinion outlines how companies violate RESPA when they steer shoppers to lenders by using pay-to-play tactics rather than providing shoppers with comprehensive and objective information.

On 9/30/2021, the CFPB published an article reminding servicers of newer rule that help protect potentially vulnerable borrowers exiting forbearance. In their article, the CFPB reminds loan services that not all borrowers are similarly situated and many borrowers may be vulnerable to a greater risk of harm due to a variety of pandemic-related and nonrelated circumstances, including poor health, mental decline, disability, caregiving for a child or loved one, having limited English proficiency, inadequate access to technology, or being a first-time homeowner.

On 6/28/2021, the CFPB issued a final rule to amend g certain provisions in Regulation X regarding additional assistance for borrowers experiencing a COVID-19-related hardship. This rule becomes effective on August 31, 2021, though a servicer may voluntarily take certain actions discussed in the 2021 Rule before this date for certain provisions.