2025 Lending Trends: What Brokers Need to Know About Non-QM Growth

In a challenging mortgage landscape marked by rising rates and shifting borrower profiles, the non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) space is emerging as a crucial growth engine —and one that originators ignore at their own peril. With traditional loan volumes in decline and more borrowers falling outside agency guidelines, non-QM is no longer a niche alternative—it's a mainstream necessity. From self-employed entrepreneurs to seasoned investors tapping into home equity, demand for flexible lending options is surging in 2025. In this episode of MPA Talk, Editor Fergal McAlinden sits down with two industry leaders — Tom Hutchens, President of Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions, and Scott Gruebele, Senior Account Executive at Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions—to unpack what’s driving the rapid rise of non-QM lending. Whether you're just starting to explore this space or looking to deepen your expertise, this conversation offers a clear, actionable guide to staying competitive in a changing market. Here’s what you’ll take away from the episode: • Why non-QM is growing while agency lending declines • The borrower segments fueling non-QM growth in 2025 • Top-performing non-QM products—like second liens, interest-only, and bank statement loans • How originators can tap into massive untapped home equity • The steps brokers need to take to become non-QM experts • Why aligning with an experienced lender like Angel Oak is crucial to success • Trends on the horizon: investor activity, jumbo opportunities, and more Don’t fall behind—start building your non-QM pipeline today. Listen now and discover how to position your business for sustainable growth in the evolving mortgage market.