The Atlantic City-Hammonton, New Jersey Metropolitan Statistical Area boasts a legendary boardwalk and coastline but is now as well known for its bankrupt casinos. And, rather than a growing population with an expanding economy, the region remains on a downward trend, with a projected -2.9% depreciation.

[Expert commentary] As the spring selling market heats up, buyers continue to face increasing odds against finding their dream homes. Inventory is low, demand is high and rates have been steadily creeping upwards for months. These factors are only complicating what can already be an arduous experience for would-be homebuyers hoping to get approved for a mortgage. In a new study analyzing more than 10 million mortgage application records, LendingTree found nearly one out of every 10 mortgage applicants, or 8%, is denied at the national level.

The NEXT Conference takes place June 21-22 in Dallas and features informative panels, technology demos and the chance for mortgage lending executives to network. But one of the most exciting things on the agenda is the headliner: Pam Patenaude, deputy secretary at the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The deputy secretary position at HUD is similar to that of a COO, and Pam is leveraging 30 years of experience shaping and implementing housing policy as she manages the department’s $45 billion annual budget and approximately 8,000 employees.