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Regulating zombie mortgages

Author

Listed:
  • Lee, Jonathan
  • Nguyen, Duc Duy
  • Nguyen, Huyen

Abstract

Using the adoption of Zombie Property Law (ZL) across several US states, we show that increased lender accountability in the foreclosure process affects mortgage lending decisions and standards. Difference-in-differences estimations using a state border design show that ZL incentivizes lenders to screen mortgage applications more carefully: they deny more applications and impose higher interest rates on originated loans, especially risky loans. In turn, these loans exhibit higher ex-post performance. ZL also affects lender behavior after borrowers become distressed, causing them to strategically keep delinquent mortgages alive. Our findings inform the debate on policy responses to foreclosure crises.

Suggested Citation

  • Lee, Jonathan & Nguyen, Duc Duy & Nguyen, Huyen, 2024. "Regulating zombie mortgages," IWH Discussion Papers 16/2024, Halle Institute for Economic Research (IWH).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:iwhdps:298000
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Zombie lending; mortgage screening; mortgage renegotiation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • K25 - Law and Economics - - Regulation and Business Law - - - Real Estate Law

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