Never ones to let an opportunity go unexploited, mortgage lenders are taking advantage of a market fueled by low interest rates and massive government subsidies to turn record profits. Their secret: The return of “junk fees.”

via Despite Housing Slump, Mortgage Lenders Making Record Profits From Fees.

“WASHINGTON, Oct 8 (Reuters) – The outlook for mortgage finance giants Fannie Mae (FNM.N) and Freddie Mac (FRE.N) still looks shaky and the two may need additional assistance from the U.S. Treasury, said their chief regulator on Thursday.”

via Fannie, Freddie outlook still troubled -FHFA chief | Deals | Regulatory News | Reuters .

“The pace of home building in Dallas-Fort Worth picked up in the third quarter from the previous quarter, but construction is still below last year’s level, according to the Dallas-based real estate research firm Residential Strategies.”

Home building in D-FW jumps 32 percent in third quarter | Arlington | Star-Telegram.