Mortgage lenders and investors have been desperately trying to figure out how to originate non-QM loans that offer lenders the kind of profits last seen during the days of subprime lending. At a time when loan volumes have plummeted, lenders can charge consumers significantly higher mortgage rates for these products. The first step for many lenders has been introducing niche-products safe enough to compensate for legal dangers. These lenders have introduced loans for self-employed borrowers, foreign nationals and borrowers with blemished credit from a past short sale or foreclosure. They are also focusing on specific property types like condominiums that do not meet standards set by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.