Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies Disclosure	Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation The Company’s consolidated financial statements include the accounts and transactions of Walter Investment and other entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest. A controlling financial interest may exist in the form of an ownership of a majority of an entity’s voting interests or through other arrangements with entities, such as with a VIE. The Company evaluates each securitization trust associated with its residential loan portfolio to determine if the Company has a variable interest in the trust, if the trust meets the definition of a VIE and whether the Company has a controlling financial interest as the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If the Company determines that it does have a variable interest in the trust, that the trust is a VIE, and that it is the primary beneficiary of the VIE, it consolidates the VIE. The evaluation considers all of the Company’s involvement with the VIE, identifying both the implicit and explicit variable interests that either individually or in the aggregate could be significant enough to warrant its designation as the primary beneficiary. This designation is evidenced by both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance and the obligation to absorb the losses of, or the right to receive the benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. When the Company’s only involvement with a securitization trust is that of servicer, the Company evaluates whether its servicing fee is deemed a variable interest. When the Company’s servicing fee meets all of the criteria in the accounting guidance for VIEs regarding fees paid to service providers, the Company concludes that it is acting in the capacity of a fiduciary and that it does not have a variable interest in the securitization trust. Accordingly, the Company does not consolidate the trust. However, in the event the servicing fee is deemed a variable interest, the Company evaluates whether it has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance. If the Company concludes that it has such power, the Company consolidates the trust. The Company performs a similar evaluation when it is involved with other entities that are not securitization trusts. The Company re-evaluates whether an entity in which it has a variable interest is a VIE when certain significant events occur. Throughout the duration of its involvement with an entity that is deemed a VIE, the Company reassesses whether it is the primary beneficiary and, accordingly, whether it must consolidate the VIE. Certain events may change the primary beneficiary of a VIE determination including, but not limited to, a change in the Company’s ownership of the residual interests, a change in the Company’s role as servicer, or a change in the Company’s contractual obligations to a VIE. Deconsolidation of Marix During the second quarter of 2015, the Company completed the contribution and deconsolidation of 100% of the equity of Marix to WCO pursuant to the terms of an amended contribution agreement among the Company, WCO and certain other parties. Pursuant to such agreement and as consideration for such contribution, during the third quarter of 2015, the Company received 300,000 partnership common units in WCO LP, a contingent consideration, following achievement by Marix of various post-contribution milestones, including the purchase of its first MSR. The Company elected to account for the partnership common units as contingent consideration under the gain contingency model. As a result, during the third quarter of 2015 the Company recorded a $3.1 million gain for the consideration received for the contribution of Marix, which is recorded in the other line item within other gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include short-term deposits and highly-liquid investments that have original maturities of three months or less when purchased and are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents with federally-insured financial institutions and these balances typically exceed insurable amounts. Cash equivalents also include amounts due from third-party financial institutions in process of settlement. These transactions typically settle in three days or less and were $110.6 million and $116.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted cash and cash equivalents include cash and cash equivalents that are legally restricted as to use or withdrawal. Restricted cash primarily includes (i) principal and interest payments collected by the Company as servicer on behalf of third-party credit owners and unconsolidated securitization trusts that have not yet been remitted to the credit owners or trusts; (ii) principal and interest payments collected by consolidated securitization trusts that have not yet been remitted to the bondholders; and (iii) amounts pledged as collateral for servicing advance facilities. Restricted cash equivalents include investments in money market mutual funds. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company transitioned a large portion of its mortgage loan servicing portfolio to MSP, which resulted in a reduction to certain restricted cash account balances as a result of changes in the structure and timing of the flow of funds to certain custodial accounts that are not reflected in the consolidated balance sheets. Residential Loans at Amortized Cost, Net Residential loans carried at amortized cost include mortgage loans associated with the Residual Trusts and unencumbered mortgage loans. A majority of these loans were originated by the Company, acquired from other originators, principally an affiliate of Walter Energy, or acquired as part of a pool. Originated loans were initially recorded at the discounted value of the future payments using an imputed interest rate net of cost-basis adjustments such as deferred loan origination fees and associated direct costs, premiums and discounts. The imputed interest rate used represented the estimated prevailing market rate of interest for loans of similar terms issued to borrowers with similar credit risk. New originations of mortgage loans held for investment subsequent to May 1, 2008 relate primarily to the financing of sales of real estate owned. The imputed interest rate on these financings is based on observable market mortgage rates, adjusted for variations in expected credit losses where market data is unavailable. Interest Income and Amortization Interest income on the Company’s residential loans carried at amortized cost consists of the interest earned on the outstanding principal balance of the underlying loan based on the contractual terms of the residential loan and retail installment agreement and the amortization of cost-basis adjustments, principally premiums and discounts. The retail installment agreements state the maximum amount to be charged to borrowers and ultimately recognized as interest income, based on the contractual number of payments and dollar amount of monthly payments. Cost-basis adjustments are deferred and recognized over the contractual life of the loan as an adjustment to yield using the level yield method. Residential loan pay-offs received in advance of scheduled maturity (voluntary prepayments) affect the amount of interest income due to the recognition at that time of any remaining unamortized premiums, discounts, or other cost-basis adjustments arising from the loan’s inception. Non-accrual Loans Residential loans at amortized cost that are not insured are placed on non-accrual status when any portion of the principal or interest is 90 days past due. When placed on non-accrual status, the related interest receivable is reversed against interest income of the current period. Interest income on non-accrual loans, if received, is recorded using the cash basis method of accounting. Residential loans are removed from non-accrual status when there is no longer significant uncertainty regarding collection of the principal and the associated interest. If a non-accrual loan is returned to accruing status, the accrued interest, at the date the residential loan is placed on non-accrual status and interest during the non-accrual period are recorded as interest income as of the date the loan no longer meets the non-accrual criteria. The past due or delinquency status of residential loans is generally determined based on the contractual payment terms. In the case of loans with an approved repayment plan, including plans approved by the bankruptcy court, delinquency is based on the modified due date of the loan. Loan balances are charged off when it becomes evident that balances are not collectible. Allowance for Loan Losses The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of probable incurred credit losses inherent in the residential loan portfolio carried at amortized cost as of the balance sheet date. This portfolio is made up of one segment and class that consists primarily of less-than prime, credit-challenged residential loans, whose primary risk to the Company is credit exposure. The method for monitoring and assessing credit risk is the same throughout the portfolio. Residential loans carried at amortized cost are homogeneous and evaluated collectively for impairment. The determination of the level of the allowance for loan losses and, correspondingly, the provision for loan losses is based on, but not limited to, delinquency levels, default frequency experience, prior loan loss severity experience, and management’s judgment and assumptions regarding various matters, including the composition of the residential loan portfolio, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, the estimated value of the underlying real estate collateral, the level of the allowance in relation to total loans and to historical loss levels, current economic and market conditions within the applicable geographic areas of the underlying real estate, changes in unemployment levels, and the impact that changes in interest rates have on a borrower’s ability to refinance its loan and to meet its repayment obligations. Management evaluates these assumptions and various other relevant factors impacting credit quality and inherent losses when quantifying the Company’s exposure to credit losses and assessing the adequacy of its allowance for loan losses as of each reporting date. The level of the allowance is adjusted based on the results of management’s analysis. Generally, as residential loans age, the credit exposure is reduced, resulting in decreasing provisions. While the Company considers the allowance for loan losses to be adequate based on information currently available, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if circumstances differ from the assumptions used by management in determining the allowance for loan losses. Loan Modifications The Company will occasionally modify a loan agreement at the request of the borrower. The Company’s current modification program offered to borrowers is limited and is used to assist borrowers experiencing temporary hardships and is intended to minimize the economic loss to the Company and to avoid foreclosure. Generally, the Company’s modifications are short-term interest rate reductions and/or payment deferrals with forgiveness of principal rarely granted. A modification of a loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the modification constitutes a concession. Loans modified in a troubled debt restructuring are typically already on non-accrual status and have an allowance recorded. At times, loans reflected on the Company's balance sheet are modified in a troubled debt restructuring and may have the financial effect of increasing the allowance associated with the loan. The allowance for an impaired loan that has been modified in a troubled debt restructuring is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate or the estimated fair value of the collateral less any selling costs. Troubled debt restructurings for these loans have historically been, and continue to be, insignificant to the Company. Residential Loans at Fair Value Residential Loans Held for Investment Residential loans held for investment and carried at fair value consist of reverse loans, mortgage loans related to the Non-Residual Trusts, and charged-off loans. The Company has elected to carry these loans at fair value. Reverse loans consist of HECMs that were either originated or acquired by the Company. The loans are pooled and securitized into HMBS that are sold into the secondary market with servicing rights retained. Based upon the structure of the Ginnie Mae securitization program, the Company has determined that it has not met all of the requirements for sale accounting and accounts for these transfers as secured borrowings. Under this accounting treatment, the reverse loans remain on the consolidated balance sheets as residential loans. The proceeds from the transfers of reverse loans are recorded as HMBS related obligations with no gain or loss recognized on the transfers. Reverse loans also include loans that have not yet been transferred to Ginnie Mae securitization pools and loans that have been repurchased from Ginnie Mae securitization pools. The Company, as an issuer of HMBS, is required to repurchase reverse loans out of the Ginnie Mae securitization pools once the outstanding principal balance of the related HECM is equal to or greater than 98% of the maximum claim amount, which is defined as the lesser of a home's appraised value at the point in time that the Conditional Commitment is issued or the maximum loan limit that can be insured by the FHA. Performing repurchased loans are conveyed to HUD and nonperforming repurchased loans are generally liquidated through foreclosure and subsequent sale of the real estate owned. Loans are considered nonperforming upon events such as, but not limited to, the death of the mortgagor, the mortgagor no longer occupying the property as their principal residence, or the property taxes or insurance not being paid. In addition to having to fund these repurchases, the Company also typically earns a lower interest rate and incurs certain non-reimbursable costs during the process of liquidating nonperforming loans. The yield on reverse loans and any change in fair value are recorded in net fair value gains on reverse loans and related HMBS obligations on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Similarly, the yield on and change in fair value of mortgage loans related to the Non-Residual Trusts are recorded in other net fair value gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on reverse loans and mortgage loans related to the Non-Residual Trusts includes recognition of contractual interest income that is expected to be collected based on the stated interest rates of the loans, as well as the accretion of fair value. Charged-off loans represent a portfolio of defaulted consumer and residential loans that were acquired at substantial discounts to face value. Charged-off loans are consumers' unpaid financial commitments and include residential mortgage loans, auto loans and other unsecured consumer loans. The accretion of fair value associated with charged-off loans and any change in fair value are recorded in other revenues on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. There is no contractual interest income recognized in relation to charged-off loans. Purchases and originations of and payments received on residential loans held for investment are included in investing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Residential Loans Held for Sale Residential loans held for sale represent mortgage loans originated or acquired by the Company with the intent to sell. These loans are originated or acquired primarily for purposes of selling into the secondary market or to private investors as whole loans with servicing rights either retained or sold. The Company has elected to carry mortgage loans held for sale at fair value. The yield on the loans, any change in fair value, and gains or losses recognized upon sale of the loans are recorded in net gains on sales of loans on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on the loans includes recognition of interest income that is expected to be collected based on the stated interest rates of the loans, as well as the accretion of fair value. Loan origination fees are recorded in other revenues within the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss when earned and related costs are recognized in general and administrative expenses when incurred. All activity related to residential loans held for sale are included in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. The Company’s agreements with GSEs and other third parties include standard representations and warranties related to the loans the Company sells. The representations and warranties require adherence to origination and underwriting guidelines, including but not limited to the validity of the lien securing the loan, property eligibility, borrower credit, income and asset requirements, and compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Breaches of representations and warranties, with the exception of certain loans originated under HARP, are generally enforceable at any time over the life of the loan. If the Company is unable to cure such breach, the purchaser of the loan may require the Company to repurchase such loan for the unpaid principle balance, accrued interest, and related advances, and in any event, the Company must indemnify such purchaser for certain losses and expenses incurred by such purchaser in connection with such breach. In the case the Company repurchases the loan, the Company bears any subsequent credit loss on the loan. The Company’s credit loss may be reduced by any recourse it has to correspondent lenders that, in turn, have sold such residential loans to the Company and breached similar or other representations and warranties. In such event, the Company has the right to seek a recovery of related repurchase losses from that correspondent lender. The Company actively contests claims to the extent that the Company does not consider the claims to be valid. The Company seeks to manage the risk of repurchase and associated credit exposure through the Company's underwriting and quality assurance practices. The Company records a provision for losses relating to such representations and warranties as part of its loan sale transactions at the time the loan is sold in accordance with the accounting guidance for guarantees. The provision is a reduction in the net gains on sales of loans on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The method used to estimate the liability for representations and warranties is a function of the representations and warranties given and considers a combination of factors, including, but not limited to, historical defect rates, projected repurchase rates, projected resale values, and the probability of reimbursement by the correspondent loan seller. The liability, which is recorded in payables and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, is updated based on changes in estimates, with those changes recorded as a component of general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The level of the liability for representations and warranties requires considerable management judgment. The level of residential loan repurchase losses is dependent on economic factors and external conditions that may change over the lives of the underlying loans. Receivables Related to Non-Residual Trusts Receivables related to Non-Residual Trusts, which are recorded in receivables, net on the consolidated balance sheets, consist of the estimated fair value of expected future draws on LOCs from a third party. The LOCs are credit enhancements to the Non-Residual Trusts. The cash flows received from the LOC draws are paid directly to the underlying securitization trusts and are used to pay bondholders of these securitizations for shortfalls in principal and interest collections on the loans in the securitizations. The Company has elected to carry these receivables at fair value. Changes in fair value are recorded in other net fair value gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Servicing Operations Servicing Rights, Net Capitalized servicing rights include rights associated with servicing and subservicing contracts acquired in connection with business combinations and servicing rights acquired through the purchase of such rights from third parties or through the sale of loans with servicing rights retained. At initial recognition, the fair value of the servicing right is established using assumptions consistent with those used to establish the fair value of existing servicing rights. A servicing or subservicing asset (or liability) is recognized on the consolidated balance sheets when the benefits of servicing are deemed to be greater (or lower) than adequate compensation for the servicing activities performed by the Company. No servicing or subservicing asset or liability is recorded if the amounts earned represent adequate compensation. Generally, no servicing asset or liability is recognized when the Company enters into new subservicing contracts; however, previously existing contracts acquired in a business combination may be deemed to provide greater (or lower) than adequate compensation. Subsequent to acquisition, servicing rights (or liabilities) are accounted for using the amortization method or the fair value measurement method, based on the Company’s strategy for managing the risks of the underlying portfolios. Risks inherent in servicing rights include prepayment and interest rate risks. The Company identifies classes of servicing rights based upon the availability of market inputs used in determining fair value and its available risk management strategies associated with the servicing rights. Based upon these criteria, the Company has identified three classes of servicing rights: a risk-managed loan class, a mortgage loan class, and a reverse loan class. The risk-managed loan class includes loan portfolios for which the Company may apply a hedging strategy in the future. For servicing assets associated with the risk-managed loan class, which are accounted for at fair value, the Company measures the fair value at each reporting date and records changes in fair value in net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Servicing rights associated with the mortgage loan class and the reverse loan class are amortized based on expected cash flows in proportion to and over the life of servicing revenue. Amortization is recorded as an adjustment to net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Servicing assets (or liabilities) are stratified by product type and compared to the estimated fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment (or an increased obligation) is recognized through a valuation allowance for each stratum. The valuation allowance is adjusted to reflect the amount, if any, by which the carrying value of the servicing rights for a given stratum exceeds (or in the case of servicing liabilities, is lower than) its fair value. Any fair value in excess of (or in the case of servicing liabilities, lower than) the carrying value for a given stratum is not recognized. The Company recognizes a direct impairment to the servicing asset or liability when the valuation allowance is determined to be unrecoverable. Net Servicing Revenue and Fees Servicing revenue and fees consist of income from the Company’s third-party servicing portfolio, which includes loans associated with arrangements in which the Company owns the servicing rights or acts as subservicer. Servicing revenue and fees include contractual servicing fees, incentive and performance fees, and ancillary income. Contractual servicing fees related to arrangements in which the Company owns the servicing rights are generally based on a percentage of the unpaid principal balance of the related collateral and are recorded when earned, which is generally upon collection of payments from borrowers. Contractual servicing fees related to arrangements in which the Company acts as subservicer are generally based on a fixed dollar amount per loan and are accrued in the period the services are performed. Incentive and performance fees include fees based on the performance of specific portfolios or loans, asset recovery income, and modification fees. Fees based on the performance of specific portfolios or loans are recognized when earned based on the terms of the various servicing and incentive agreements. Asset recovery income is generally recognized upon collection. Ancillary income includes late fees, prepayment fees, and collection fees and is generally recognized upon collection. Servicing revenue and fees are adjusted for the amortization of servicing rights carried at amortized cost, the change in fair value of servicing rights carried at fair value and the change in fair value of servicing rights related liabilities. Servicer and Protective Advances, Net In the ordinary course of servicing residential loans and pursuant to certain servicing agreements, the Company may advance the principal and interest portion of delinquent mortgage payments to credit owners prior to the collection of such amounts from borrowers, provided that the Company determines these advances are recoverable from either the borrower or the liquidation of collateral. In addition, the Company is required under certain servicing contracts to ensure that property taxes, insurance premiums, foreclosure costs and various other items are paid in order to preserve the collateral underlying the assets being serviced. Generally, the Company recovers such advances from borrowers for reinstated or performing loans, from proceeds of liquidation of collateral or ultimate disposition of the loan, from credit owners or from loan insurers. Certain of the Company’s servicing agreements provide that repayment of servicing advances made under the respective agreements have a priority over all other cash payments to be made from the proceeds of the residential loan, and in certain cases the proceeds of the pool of residential loans, which are the subject of that servicing agreement. As a result, the Company is entitled to repayment from loan proceeds before any interest or principal is paid to the bondholders, and in certain cases, advances in excess of loan proceeds may be recovered from pool-level proceeds. Servicer and protective advances are carried at cost, net of estimated losses. Losses can occur in the normal course of servicing loans when the Company fails to make advances in accordance with investor guidelines including filing claims timely, requesting approvals, or advancing outside of guidelines. The Company establishes an allowance for uncollectible advances based on an analysis of the underlying loans, their historical loss experience, and recoverability pursuant to the terms of underlying servicing agreements. Generally, estimated losses related to advances are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Custodial Accounts In connection with its servicing activities, the Company has a fiduciary responsibility for amounts primarily related to borrower escrow funds and other custodial funds due to credit owners aggregating $4.4 billion and $3.8 billion at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. These funds, which do not represent assets or liabilities of the Company, are maintained in segregated bank accounts, and accordingly, are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets. Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the consideration paid in a business combination over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired. The Company tests goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable from future cash flows. A reporting unit is a business segment or one level below. The Company has identified five reporting units, which constitute businesses: (i) Servicing; (ii) ARM; (iii) Insurance; (iv) Originations; and (v) Reverse Mortgage. Segment management regularly reviews discrete financial information for these reporting units. The Company has the option of performing a qualitative assessment of impairment to determine whether any further quantitative testing for impairment is necessary. If the Company elects to bypass the qualitative assessment or if it determines, based on qualitative factors, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, a two-step quantitative test is required. In Step 1, the Company compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its net carrying value, including goodwill. If the net carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the Company then performs Step 2 of the impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In Step 2, the Company allocates the reporting unit’s fair value to all of its assets and liabilities in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation, with any residual fair value allocated to goodwill (implied fair value of goodwill). If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of such goodwill, the Company recognizes an impairment loss in an amount equal to that excess up to the carrying value of goodwill. In performing the two-step quantitative assessment, fair value of the reporting unit is based on discounted cash flows, market multiples, and/or appraised values, as appropriate. The Company completed its annual goodwill impairment test effective October 1, 2016, which is discussed in more detail in Note 14. Intangible Assets, Net Intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationships and institutional relationships. Intangible assets are amortized using either an economic consumption method or a straight-line method over their related expected useful lives. Intangible assets subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. An asset is considered to be impaired when the sum of the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition does not exceed its carrying amount. The amount of the impairment loss, if any, is measured as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value. Premises and Equipment, Net Premises and equipment, net are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Leasehold improvements and assets under capital leases are amortized over the lesser of the remaining term of the lease or the useful life of the leased asset. Costs to internally develop computer software are capitalized during the application development stage and include external direct costs of materials and services as well as employee costs directly associated with the project during the capitalization period. Premises and equipment are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. An asset is considered to be impaired when the sum of the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition does not exceed its carrying amount. The amount of the impairment loss, if any, is measured as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value. Derivatives The Company enters into commitments to originate and purchase mortgage loans at interest rates that are determined prior to the funding or purchase of the loan. These commitments are referred to as IRLCs. IRLCs are considered freestanding derivatives and are recorded at fair value at inception. Changes in fair value subsequent to inception are based on changes in the fair value of the underlying loan, and changes in the probability that the loan will fund within the terms of the commitment. The Company uses derivative financial instruments, primarily forward sales commitments, to manage exposure to interest rate risk and changes in the fair value of IRLCs and mortgage loans held for sale. The Company may also enter into commitments to purchase MBS as part of its overall hedging strategy. The Company has elected not to designate these freestanding derivatives as hedging instruments under GAAP. The fair value of freestanding derivatives is recorded in other assets or payables and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in the fair values included in net gains on sales of loans on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Cash flows related to freestanding derivatives are included in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. In connection with forward sales commitments and MBS purchase commitments, the Company has margin agreements with its counterparties whereby both parties are required to post cash margin in the event the fair values of the derivative financial instruments meet or exceed established thresholds and minimum transfer amounts. This process substantially mitigates counterparty credit risk. The right to receive cash margin placed by the Company with its counterparties is included in other assets, and the obligation to return cash margin received by the Company from its counterparties is included in payables and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company has elected to record derivative assets and liabilities and related cash margin on a gross basis, even when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the Company and the derivative counterparty. The derivative transactions described above are measured in terms of the notional amount. With the exception of IRLCs, the notional amount is generally not exchanged and is used only as a basis on which interest and other payments are determined. Real Estate Owned, Net Real estate owned, net is included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, and represents properties acquired in satisfaction of residential loans. Upon foreclosure, or when the Company otherwise takes possession of the property, real estate owned is recorded at the lower of cost or estimated fair value less estimated costs to sell. The excess of cost over the fair value of the property acquired less estimated costs to sell, or net realizable value, is charged to the allowance for loan losses for residential loans carried at amortized cost, to other net fair value gains (losses) for mortgage loans carried at fair value, and to net fair value gains on reverse loans and related HMBS obligations for reverse loans. The fair value of the property is generally based upon historical resale recovery rates and current market conditions or appraisals. Subsequent declines in the value of real estate owned are recorded as adjustments to the carrying amount through a valuation allowance and are recorded in other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Losses from the sale of real estate owned associated with reverse loans are typically covered by FHA insurance, the benefit of which is considered in the net realizable value estimate. To the extent these losses are not covered by the FHA insurance, they are recognized in other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss when incurred. Costs relating to the improvement of the property are capitalized to the extent the balance does not exceed its fair value, whereas those costs relating to maintaining the property are recorded when incurred to other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The Company may finance the sale of its real estate owned for the portfolio associated with the Residual Trusts. Revenue from the sale of real estate owned is recognized by the full accrual method when the specific criteria for use of this method are met. However, frequently, the requirement for a minimum 5% initial cash investment for primary residences is not met. When this is the case, losses are recognized immediately while gains are deferred and recognized by the installment method until the borrower’s initial investment reaches the minimum 5% requirement. Once the borrower’s initial investment reaches the minimum required amount, revenue is recognized by the full accrual method. Gains and losses on the sale of real estate owned are charged to other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss when incurred. Insurance Operations The Company earns commission revenue on voluntary insurance provided for residential loan borrowers and lender-placed hazard insurance for borrowers and credit owners, if permitted under applicable laws and regulations. Commission revenue is recognized when the earnings process has been completed, which is the effective date of the insurance policy, and collectability is reasonably assured. At the time commission revenue is recognized, the Company can reliably estimate expected policy cancellations and records a reserve for cancellations, which is estimated based on historical experience adjusted for known events or circumstances. The reserve for policy cancellations is evaluated on a quarterly basis and adjusted to reflect current estimates. Servicer Payables Servicer payables represent amounts collected that are required to be remitted to third-party trusts, credit owners, or others. These collections are primarily from borrowers whose loans the Company services. Servicing Rights Related Liabilities Servicing rights related liabilities consists of MSR liabilities related to NRM sales, excess servicing spread liabilities and servicing rights financing, as discussed below. MSR Liabilities Related to NRM Sales The Company records a liability for certain servicing rights that will be transferred to NRM under a recapture agreement. The Company elected to record MSR liabilities related to NRM sales at fair value consistent with the related servicing rights. Excess Servicing Spread Liabilities The Company recognized the proceeds from the sales to WCO of beneficial interests in certain portions of the contractual servicing fees associated with certain mortgage loans serviced by the Company as financing arrangements. The beneficial interest is referred to as excess servicing spread. The Company elected to record the excess servicing spread liabilities at fair value consistent with the related servicing rights. The change in fair value of the excess servicing spread liabilities is recorded in net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The change in fair value of the excess servicing spread liabilities includes the accretion of fair value, which is recorded using the effective interest method based on the expected cash flows from the excess servicing spreads through the expected life of the underlying loans. There is no contractual interest rate on excess servicing spread liabilities. Servicing Rights Financing From time to time, the Company will enter into certain transactions to sell certain servicing rights. The Company evaluates these transactions to determine if they are sales or structured financing arrangements. When these transfers qualify for sale treatment, the Company derecognizes the transferred assets on its consolidated balance sheets. The Company has determined that not all risk of rewards and ownership were passed to WCO upon the sales of servicing rights. As a result, the Company accounted for these sales of servicing rights as secured borrowings. Under this accounting treatment, the servicing rights remain on the consolidated balance sheets and the proceeds from the sale of the servicing rights are recognized as servicing rights financing. The Company elected to record the servicing rights financing at fair value consistent with the related servicing rights. The change in fair value of the servicing rights financing is recorded in net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The change in fair value of the servicing rights financing includes the accretion of fair value, which is recorded using the effective interest method based on the expected cash flows from the servicing rights through the expected life of the underlying loans. There is no contractual interest rate on servicing rights financing. Proceeds from the sale of these servicing rights and payments on the servicing rights financing are included in financing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Debt and Other Obligations Servicing advance liabilities, warehouse borrowings and corporate debt are carried at amortized cost. Servicing advance liabilities relating to term notes and corporate debt are also presented net of related discounts and deferred debt issuance costs. Deferred debt issuance costs associated with servicing advance liabilities with line-of-credit arrangements, warehouse borrowings and the 2013 Revolver are recorded in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Deferred debt issuance costs and original issue discounts, if any, are amortized to interest expense over the term of the debt or obligation using either the effective interest method or the straight-line method. Mortgage-Backed Debt The Company’s mortgage-backed debt associated with the Residual Trusts is carried at amortized cost, net of discounts and deferred debt issuance costs. These costs and original issue discounts, if any, are amortized to interest expense over the term of the debt using the effective interest method. The Company elected to carry mortgage-backed debt related to the Non-Residual Trusts at fair value. The yield on mortgage-backed debt and any change in fair value are recorded in other net fair value gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on mortgage-backed debt includes recognition of interest expense based on the stated interest rates of the debt, as well as the accretion of fair value. HMBS Related Obligations The Company recognizes the proceeds from the transfer of HMBS as a secured borrowing. The Company elected to record the secured borrowing, or the HMBS related obligations, at fair value. The yield on HMBS related obligations and any change in fair value are recorded in net fair value gains on reverse loans and related HMBS obligations on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on HMBS related obligations includes recognition of contractual interest expense based on the stated interest rates of the obligations, as well as the accretion of fair value. Proceeds from securitizations of reverse loans and payments on HMBS related obligations are included in financing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows. Other Revenues Other revenues of the Other non-reportable segment include $36.8 million in asset management performance fees collected and earned in connection with the asset management of a fund for the year ended December 31, 2014. These asset management performance fees were earned in connection with the liquidation of the fund’s investments during the period and were based on the fund performance exceeding pre-defined thresholds. The Company records the asset management performance fees when the fund is terminated or when the likelihood of claw-back is improbable. Income Taxes The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates for the periods in which the differences are expected to reverse. The change in deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period of the change. Periodic reviews of the carrying amount of deferred tax assets are made to determine if the establishment of a valuation allowance is necessary. A valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. All evidence, both positive and negative, is evaluated when making this determination. Items considered in this analysis include the ability to carry back losses to recoup taxes previously paid, the reversal of temporary differences, tax planning strategies, historical financial performance, expectations of future earnings, and the length of statutory carryforward periods. Significant judgment is required in assessing future earnings trends and the timing of reversals of temporary differences. The Company assesses its tax positions for all open tax years and determines whether it has any material unrecognized liabilities in accordance with the guidance on accounting for uncertain tax positions. The Company records interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions in income tax expense and general and administrative expenses, respectively, on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Share-Based Compensation The Company has in effect stock incentive plans under which RSUs, performance shares and non-qualified stock options have been granted to employees and non-employee members of the Board of Directors. The Company estimates the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant. The value of the award is generally recognized as an expense using the graded method over the requisite service period. The fair value of the Company’s RSUs is generally based on the average of the high and low market prices of its common stock on the date of grant. The Company estimates the fair value of performance shares and non-qualified stock options as of the date of grant using the Monte-Carlo simulation model and Black-Scholes option pricing model, respectively. These models consider, among other factors, the performance period or expected life of the award, the expected volatility of the Company’s stock price, and expected dividends. The Company records share-based compensation expense in salaries and benefits expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Advertising Costs Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The Company recorded advertising expense of $25.0 million, $44.5 million and $31.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share The Company uses the two-class method to determine earnings per share. Outstanding share-based payment awards that include non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents, whether paid or unpaid, are considered participating securities and are included in the calculation of basic earnings per common share pursuant to the two-class method. The Company’s participating securities were comprised of RSUs. Under the two-class method, net income is reduced by the amount of dividends declared in the period for common stock and participating securities. The remaining undistributed earnings are then allocated to common stock and participating securities as if all of the net income for the period had been distributed. Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is calculated by dividing net income allocable to common shares by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income allocable to common shares by the weighted-average number of common shares for the period, as adjusted for the potential dilutive effect of non-participating share-based awards and convertible debt, based on the treasury method. The Company uses the treasury method to compute the dilutive effect of convertible debt based on its intention to settle all conversions through combination settlement, which involves repayment of an amount of cash equal to the principal amount of convertible debt and any excess of conversion value over the principal amount of convertible debt in shares of common stock. During periods of net loss, diluted loss per share is equal to basic loss per share as the antidilutive effect of non-participating share-based awards and convertible debt is disregarded. No effect is given to participating securities in the computation of basic and diluted loss per share as these securities do not share in the losses of the Company. Contingencies The Company evaluates contingencies based on information currently available and establishes accruals for those matters when a loss contingency is considered probable and the related amount is reasonably estimable. For matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible but not probable, no accrual is established but the nature of the loss contingency and an estimate of the reasonably possible range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, when such estimate can be made, is disclosed. In deriving an estimate, the Company is required to make assumptions about matters that are, by their nature, highly uncertain. The assessment of loss contingencies, including legal contingencies and curtailment obligations, involves the use of critical estimates, assumptions and judgments. Whenever practicable, the Company consults with outside experts, including legal counsel and consultants, to assist with the gathering and evaluation of information related to contingent liabilities. It is not possible to predict or determine the outcome of all loss contingencies. Accruals are periodically reviewed and may be adjusted as circumstances change.

Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The Company’s consolidated financial statements include the accounts and transactions of Walter Investment and other entities in which the Company has a controlling financial interest. A controlling financial interest may exist in the form of an ownership of a majority of an entity’s voting interests or through other arrangements with entities, such as with a VIE.

The Company evaluates each securitization trust associated with its residential loan portfolio to determine if the Company has a variable interest in the trust, if the trust meets the definition of a VIE and whether the Company has a controlling financial interest as the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If the Company determines that it does have a variable interest in the trust, that the trust is a VIE, and that it is the primary beneficiary of the VIE, it consolidates the VIE. The evaluation considers all of the Company’s involvement with the VIE, identifying both the implicit and explicit variable interests that either individually or in the aggregate could be significant enough to warrant its designation as the primary beneficiary. This designation is evidenced by both the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance and the obligation to absorb the losses of, or the right to receive the benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE.

When the Company’s only involvement with a securitization trust is that of servicer, the Company evaluates whether its servicing fee is deemed a variable interest. When the Company’s servicing fee meets all of the criteria in the accounting guidance for VIEs regarding fees paid to service providers, the Company concludes that it is acting in the capacity of a fiduciary and that it does not have a variable interest in the securitization trust. Accordingly, the Company does not consolidate the trust. However, in the event the servicing fee is deemed a variable interest, the Company evaluates whether it has the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance. If the Company concludes that it has such power, the Company consolidates the trust. The Company performs a similar evaluation when it is involved with other entities that are not securitization trusts.

The Company re-evaluates whether an entity in which it has a variable interest is a VIE when certain significant events occur. Throughout the duration of its involvement with an entity that is deemed a VIE, the Company reassesses whether it is the primary beneficiary and, accordingly, whether it must consolidate the VIE. Certain events may change the primary beneficiary of a VIE determination including, but not limited to, a change in the Company’s ownership of the residual interests, a change in the Company’s role as servicer, or a change in the Company’s contractual obligations to a VIE.

Deconsolidation of Marix

During the second quarter of 2015, the Company completed the contribution and deconsolidation of 100% of the equity of Marix to WCO pursuant to the terms of an amended contribution agreement among the Company, WCO and certain other parties. Pursuant to such agreement and as consideration for such contribution, during the third quarter of 2015, the Company received 300,000 partnership common units in WCO LP, a contingent consideration, following achievement by Marix of various post-contribution milestones, including the purchase of its first MSR. The Company elected to account for the partnership common units as contingent consideration under the gain contingency model. As a result, during the third quarter of 2015 the Company recorded a $3.1 million gain for the consideration received for the contribution of Marix, which is recorded in the other line item within other gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include short-term deposits and highly-liquid investments that have original maturities of three months or less when purchased and are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents with federally-insured financial institutions and these balances typically exceed insurable amounts. Cash equivalents also include amounts due from third-party financial institutions in process of settlement. These transactions typically settle in three days or less and were $110.6 million and $116.1 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents

Restricted cash and cash equivalents include cash and cash equivalents that are legally restricted as to use or withdrawal. Restricted cash primarily includes (i) principal and interest payments collected by the Company as servicer on behalf of third-party credit owners and unconsolidated securitization trusts that have not yet been remitted to the credit owners or trusts; (ii) principal and interest payments collected by consolidated securitization trusts that have not yet been remitted to the bondholders; and (iii) amounts pledged as collateral for servicing advance facilities. Restricted cash equivalents include investments in money market mutual funds. During the year ended December 31, 2016, the Company transitioned a large portion of its mortgage loan servicing portfolio to MSP, which resulted in a reduction to certain restricted cash account balances as a result of changes in the structure and timing of the flow of funds to certain custodial accounts that are not reflected in the consolidated balance sheets.

Residential Loans at Amortized Cost, Net

Residential loans carried at amortized cost include mortgage loans associated with the Residual Trusts and unencumbered mortgage loans. A majority of these loans were originated by the Company, acquired from other originators, principally an affiliate of Walter Energy, or acquired as part of a pool. Originated loans were initially recorded at the discounted value of the future payments using an imputed interest rate net of cost-basis adjustments such as deferred loan origination fees and associated direct costs, premiums and discounts. The imputed interest rate used represented the estimated prevailing market rate of interest for loans of similar terms issued to borrowers with similar credit risk. New originations of mortgage loans held for investment subsequent to May 1, 2008 relate primarily to the financing of sales of real estate owned. The imputed interest rate on these financings is based on observable market mortgage rates, adjusted for variations in expected credit losses where market data is unavailable.

Interest Income and Amortization

Interest income on the Company’s residential loans carried at amortized cost consists of the interest earned on the outstanding principal balance of the underlying loan based on the contractual terms of the residential loan and retail installment agreement and the amortization of cost-basis adjustments, principally premiums and discounts. The retail installment agreements state the maximum amount to be charged to borrowers and ultimately recognized as interest income, based on the contractual number of payments and dollar amount of monthly payments. Cost-basis adjustments are deferred and recognized over the contractual life of the loan as an adjustment to yield using the level yield method. Residential loan pay-offs received in advance of scheduled maturity (voluntary prepayments) affect the amount of interest income due to the recognition at that time of any remaining unamortized premiums, discounts, or other cost-basis adjustments arising from the loan’s inception.

Non-accrual Loans

Residential loans at amortized cost that are not insured are placed on non-accrual status when any portion of the principal or interest is 90 days past due. When placed on non-accrual status, the related interest receivable is reversed against interest income of the current period. Interest income on non-accrual loans, if received, is recorded using the cash basis method of accounting. Residential loans are removed from non-accrual status when there is no longer significant uncertainty regarding collection of the principal and the associated interest. If a non-accrual loan is returned to accruing status, the accrued interest, at the date the residential loan is placed on non-accrual status and interest during the non-accrual period are recorded as interest income as of the date the loan no longer meets the non-accrual criteria. The past due or delinquency status of residential loans is generally determined based on the contractual payment terms. In the case of loans with an approved repayment plan, including plans approved by the bankruptcy court, delinquency is based on the modified due date of the loan. Loan balances are charged off when it becomes evident that balances are not collectible.

Allowance for Loan Losses

The allowance for loan losses represents management’s estimate of probable incurred credit losses inherent in the residential loan portfolio carried at amortized cost as of the balance sheet date. This portfolio is made up of one segment and class that consists primarily of less-than prime, credit-challenged residential loans, whose primary risk to the Company is credit exposure. The method for monitoring and assessing credit risk is the same throughout the portfolio.

Residential loans carried at amortized cost are homogeneous and evaluated collectively for impairment. The determination of the level of the allowance for loan losses and, correspondingly, the provision for loan losses is based on, but not limited to, delinquency levels, default frequency experience, prior loan loss severity experience, and management’s judgment and assumptions regarding various matters, including the composition of the residential loan portfolio, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, the estimated value of the underlying real estate collateral, the level of the allowance in relation to total loans and to historical loss levels, current economic and market conditions within the applicable geographic areas of the underlying real estate, changes in unemployment levels, and the impact that changes in interest rates have on a borrower’s ability to refinance its loan and to meet its repayment obligations. Management evaluates these assumptions and various other relevant factors impacting credit quality and inherent losses when quantifying the Company’s exposure to credit losses and assessing the adequacy of its allowance for loan losses as of each reporting date. The level of the allowance is adjusted based on the results of management’s analysis. Generally, as residential loans age, the credit exposure is reduced, resulting in decreasing provisions.

While the Company considers the allowance for loan losses to be adequate based on information currently available, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if circumstances differ from the assumptions used by management in determining the allowance for loan losses.

Loan Modifications

The Company will occasionally modify a loan agreement at the request of the borrower. The Company’s current modification program offered to borrowers is limited and is used to assist borrowers experiencing temporary hardships and is intended to minimize the economic loss to the Company and to avoid foreclosure. Generally, the Company’s modifications are short-term interest rate reductions and/or payment deferrals with forgiveness of principal rarely granted. A modification of a loan constitutes a troubled debt restructuring when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty and the modification constitutes a concession. Loans modified in a troubled debt restructuring are typically already on non-accrual status and have an allowance recorded. At times, loans reflected on the Company's balance sheet are modified in a troubled debt restructuring and may have the financial effect of increasing the allowance associated with the loan. The allowance for an impaired loan that has been modified in a troubled debt restructuring is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s original effective interest rate or the estimated fair value of the collateral less any selling costs. Troubled debt restructurings for these loans have historically been, and continue to be, insignificant to the Company.

Residential Loans at Fair Value

Residential Loans Held for Investment

Residential loans held for investment and carried at fair value consist of reverse loans, mortgage loans related to the Non-Residual Trusts, and charged-off loans. The Company has elected to carry these loans at fair value.

Reverse loans consist of HECMs that were either originated or acquired by the Company. The loans are pooled and securitized into HMBS that are sold into the secondary market with servicing rights retained. Based upon the structure of the Ginnie Mae securitization program, the Company has determined that it has not met all of the requirements for sale accounting and accounts for these transfers as secured borrowings. Under this accounting treatment, the reverse loans remain on the consolidated balance sheets as residential loans. The proceeds from the transfers of reverse loans are recorded as HMBS related obligations with no gain or loss recognized on the transfers.

Reverse loans also include loans that have not yet been transferred to Ginnie Mae securitization pools and loans that have been repurchased from Ginnie Mae securitization pools. The Company, as an issuer of HMBS, is required to repurchase reverse loans out of the Ginnie Mae securitization pools once the outstanding principal balance of the related HECM is equal to or greater than 98% of the maximum claim amount, which is defined as the lesser of a home's appraised value at the point in time that the Conditional Commitment is issued or the maximum loan limit that can be insured by the FHA. Performing repurchased loans are conveyed to HUD and nonperforming repurchased loans are generally liquidated through foreclosure and subsequent sale of the real estate owned. Loans are considered nonperforming upon events such as, but not limited to, the death of the mortgagor, the mortgagor no longer occupying the property as their principal residence, or the property taxes or insurance not being paid. In addition to having to fund these repurchases, the Company also typically earns a lower interest rate and incurs certain non-reimbursable costs during the process of liquidating nonperforming loans.

The yield on reverse loans and any change in fair value are recorded in net fair value gains on reverse loans and related HMBS obligations on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Similarly, the yield on and change in fair value of mortgage loans related to the Non-Residual Trusts are recorded in other net fair value gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on reverse loans and mortgage loans related to the Non-Residual Trusts includes recognition of contractual interest income that is expected to be collected based on the stated interest rates of the loans, as well as the accretion of fair value.

Charged-off loans represent a portfolio of defaulted consumer and residential loans that were acquired at substantial discounts to face value. Charged-off loans are consumers' unpaid financial commitments and include residential mortgage loans, auto loans and other unsecured consumer loans. The accretion of fair value associated with charged-off loans and any change in fair value are recorded in other revenues on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. There is no contractual interest income recognized in relation to charged-off loans.

Purchases and originations of and payments received on residential loans held for investment are included in investing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Residential Loans Held for Sale

Residential loans held for sale represent mortgage loans originated or acquired by the Company with the intent to sell. These loans are originated or acquired primarily for purposes of selling into the secondary market or to private investors as whole loans with servicing rights either retained or sold. The Company has elected to carry mortgage loans held for sale at fair value. The yield on the loans, any change in fair value, and gains or losses recognized upon sale of the loans are recorded in net gains on sales of loans on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on the loans includes recognition of interest income that is expected to be collected based on the stated interest rates of the loans, as well as the accretion of fair value. Loan origination fees are recorded in other revenues within the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss when earned and related costs are recognized in general and administrative expenses when incurred. All activity related to residential loans held for sale are included in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

The Company’s agreements with GSEs and other third parties include standard representations and warranties related to the loans the Company sells. The representations and warranties require adherence to origination and underwriting guidelines, including but not limited to the validity of the lien securing the loan, property eligibility, borrower credit, income and asset requirements, and compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Breaches of representations and warranties, with the exception of certain loans originated under HARP, are generally enforceable at any time over the life of the loan. If the Company is unable to cure such breach, the purchaser of the loan may require the Company to repurchase such loan for the unpaid principle balance, accrued interest, and related advances, and in any event, the Company must indemnify such purchaser for certain losses and expenses incurred by such purchaser in connection with such breach. In the case the Company repurchases the loan, the Company bears any subsequent credit loss on the loan. The Company’s credit loss may be reduced by any recourse it has to correspondent lenders that, in turn, have sold such residential loans to the Company and breached similar or other representations and warranties. In such event, the Company has the right to seek a recovery of related repurchase losses from that correspondent lender. The Company actively contests claims to the extent that the Company does not consider the claims to be valid. The Company seeks to manage the risk of repurchase and associated credit exposure through the Company's underwriting and quality assurance practices.

The Company records a provision for losses relating to such representations and warranties as part of its loan sale transactions at the time the loan is sold in accordance with the accounting guidance for guarantees. The provision is a reduction in the net gains on sales of loans on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The method used to estimate the liability for representations and warranties is a function of the representations and warranties given and considers a combination of factors, including, but not limited to, historical defect rates, projected repurchase rates, projected resale values, and the probability of reimbursement by the correspondent loan seller. The liability, which is recorded in payables and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets, is updated based on changes in estimates, with those changes recorded as a component of general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The level of the liability for representations and warranties requires considerable management judgment. The level of residential loan repurchase losses is dependent on economic factors and external conditions that may change over the lives of the underlying loans.

Receivables Related to Non-Residual Trusts

Receivables related to Non-Residual Trusts, which are recorded in receivables, net on the consolidated balance sheets, consist of the estimated fair value of expected future draws on LOCs from a third party. The LOCs are credit enhancements to the Non-Residual Trusts. The cash flows received from the LOC draws are paid directly to the underlying securitization trusts and are used to pay bondholders of these securitizations for shortfalls in principal and interest collections on the loans in the securitizations. The Company has elected to carry these receivables at fair value. Changes in fair value are recorded in other net fair value gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

Servicing Operations

Servicing Rights, Net

Capitalized servicing rights include rights associated with servicing and subservicing contracts acquired in connection with business combinations and servicing rights acquired through the purchase of such rights from third parties or through the sale of loans with servicing rights retained. At initial recognition, the fair value of the servicing right is established using assumptions consistent with those used to establish the fair value of existing servicing rights.

A servicing or subservicing asset (or liability) is recognized on the consolidated balance sheets when the benefits of servicing are deemed to be greater (or lower) than adequate compensation for the servicing activities performed by the Company. No servicing or subservicing asset or liability is recorded if the amounts earned represent adequate compensation. Generally, no servicing asset or liability is recognized when the Company enters into new subservicing contracts; however, previously existing contracts acquired in a business combination may be deemed to provide greater (or lower) than adequate compensation.

Subsequent to acquisition, servicing rights (or liabilities) are accounted for using the amortization method or the fair value measurement method, based on the Company’s strategy for managing the risks of the underlying portfolios. Risks inherent in servicing rights include prepayment and interest rate risks.

The Company identifies classes of servicing rights based upon the availability of market inputs used in determining fair value and its available risk management strategies associated with the servicing rights. Based upon these criteria, the Company has identified three classes of servicing rights: a risk-managed loan class, a mortgage loan class, and a reverse loan class. The risk-managed loan class includes loan portfolios for which the Company may apply a hedging strategy in the future. For servicing assets associated with the risk-managed loan class, which are accounted for at fair value, the Company measures the fair value at each reporting date and records changes in fair value in net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

Servicing rights associated with the mortgage loan class and the reverse loan class are amortized based on expected cash flows in proportion to and over the life of servicing revenue. Amortization is recorded as an adjustment to net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Servicing assets (or liabilities) are stratified by product type and compared to the estimated fair value on a quarterly basis. Impairment (or an increased obligation) is recognized through a valuation allowance for each stratum. The valuation allowance is adjusted to reflect the amount, if any, by which the carrying value of the servicing rights for a given stratum exceeds (or in the case of servicing liabilities, is lower than) its fair value. Any fair value in excess of (or in the case of servicing liabilities, lower than) the carrying value for a given stratum is not recognized. The Company recognizes a direct impairment to the servicing asset or liability when the valuation allowance is determined to be unrecoverable.

Net Servicing Revenue and Fees

Servicing revenue and fees consist of income from the Company’s third-party servicing portfolio, which includes loans associated with arrangements in which the Company owns the servicing rights or acts as subservicer. Servicing revenue and fees include contractual servicing fees, incentive and performance fees, and ancillary income. Contractual servicing fees related to arrangements in which the Company owns the servicing rights are generally based on a percentage of the unpaid principal balance of the related collateral and are recorded when earned, which is generally upon collection of payments from borrowers. Contractual servicing fees related to arrangements in which the Company acts as subservicer are generally based on a fixed dollar amount per loan and are accrued in the period the services are performed. Incentive and performance fees include fees based on the performance of specific portfolios or loans, asset recovery income, and modification fees. Fees based on the performance of specific portfolios or loans are recognized when earned based on the terms of the various servicing and incentive agreements. Asset recovery income is generally recognized upon collection. Ancillary income includes late fees, prepayment fees, and collection fees and is generally recognized upon collection. Servicing revenue and fees are adjusted for the amortization of servicing rights carried at amortized cost, the change in fair value of servicing rights carried at fair value and the change in fair value of servicing rights related liabilities.

Servicer and Protective Advances, Net

In the ordinary course of servicing residential loans and pursuant to certain servicing agreements, the Company may advance the principal and interest portion of delinquent mortgage payments to credit owners prior to the collection of such amounts from borrowers, provided that the Company determines these advances are recoverable from either the borrower or the liquidation of collateral. In addition, the Company is required under certain servicing contracts to ensure that property taxes, insurance premiums, foreclosure costs and various other items are paid in order to preserve the collateral underlying the assets being serviced. Generally, the Company recovers such advances from borrowers for reinstated or performing loans, from proceeds of liquidation of collateral or ultimate disposition of the loan, from credit owners or from loan insurers. Certain of the Company’s servicing agreements provide that repayment of servicing advances made under the respective agreements have a priority over all other cash payments to be made from the proceeds of the residential loan, and in certain cases the proceeds of the pool of residential loans, which are the subject of that servicing agreement. As a result, the Company is entitled to repayment from loan proceeds before any interest or principal is paid to the bondholders, and in certain cases, advances in excess of loan proceeds may be recovered from pool-level proceeds. Servicer and protective advances are carried at cost, net of estimated losses. Losses can occur in the normal course of servicing loans when the Company fails to make advances in accordance with investor guidelines including filing claims timely, requesting approvals, or advancing outside of guidelines. The Company establishes an allowance for uncollectible advances based on an analysis of the underlying loans, their historical loss experience, and recoverability pursuant to the terms of underlying servicing agreements. Generally, estimated losses related to advances are recorded in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

Custodial Accounts

In connection with its servicing activities, the Company has a fiduciary responsibility for amounts primarily related to borrower escrow funds and other custodial funds due to credit owners aggregating $4.4 billion and $3.8 billion at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. These funds, which do not represent assets or liabilities of the Company, are maintained in segregated bank accounts, and accordingly, are not reflected on the consolidated balance sheets.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the consideration paid in a business combination over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired. The Company tests goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable from future cash flows. A reporting unit is a business segment or one level below. The Company has identified five reporting units, which constitute businesses: (i) Servicing; (ii) ARM; (iii) Insurance; (iv) Originations; and (v) Reverse Mortgage. Segment management regularly reviews discrete financial information for these reporting units. The Company has the option of performing a qualitative assessment of impairment to determine whether any further quantitative testing for impairment is necessary. If the Company elects to bypass the qualitative assessment or if it determines, based on qualitative factors, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, a two-step quantitative test is required. In Step 1, the Company compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its net carrying value, including goodwill. If the net carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the Company then performs Step 2 of the impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In Step 2, the Company allocates the reporting unit’s fair value to all of its assets and liabilities in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation, with any residual fair value allocated to goodwill (implied fair value of goodwill). If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of such goodwill, the Company recognizes an impairment loss in an amount equal to that excess up to the carrying value of goodwill. In performing the two-step quantitative assessment, fair value of the reporting unit is based on discounted cash flows, market multiples, and/or appraised values, as appropriate.

The Company completed its annual goodwill impairment test effective October 1, 2016, which is discussed in more detail in Note 14.

Intangible Assets, Net

Intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationships and institutional relationships. Intangible assets are amortized using either an economic consumption method or a straight-line method over their related expected useful lives. Intangible assets subject to amortization are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. An asset is considered to be impaired when the sum of the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition does not exceed its carrying amount. The amount of the impairment loss, if any, is measured as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value.

Premises and Equipment, Net

Premises and equipment, net are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Leasehold improvements and assets under capital leases are amortized over the lesser of the remaining term of the lease or the useful life of the leased asset. Costs to internally develop computer software are capitalized during the application development stage and include external direct costs of materials and services as well as employee costs directly associated with the project during the capitalization period. Premises and equipment are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. An asset is considered to be impaired when the sum of the undiscounted future net cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition does not exceed its carrying amount. The amount of the impairment loss, if any, is measured as the amount by which the carrying value of the asset exceeds its fair value.

Derivatives

The Company enters into commitments to originate and purchase mortgage loans at interest rates that are determined prior to the funding or purchase of the loan. These commitments are referred to as IRLCs. IRLCs are considered freestanding derivatives and are recorded at fair value at inception. Changes in fair value subsequent to inception are based on changes in the fair value of the underlying loan, and changes in the probability that the loan will fund within the terms of the commitment.

The Company uses derivative financial instruments, primarily forward sales commitments, to manage exposure to interest rate risk and changes in the fair value of IRLCs and mortgage loans held for sale. The Company may also enter into commitments to purchase MBS as part of its overall hedging strategy. The Company has elected not to designate these freestanding derivatives as hedging instruments under GAAP.

The fair value of freestanding derivatives is recorded in other assets or payables and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets with changes in the fair values included in net gains on sales of loans on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Cash flows related to freestanding derivatives are included in operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

In connection with forward sales commitments and MBS purchase commitments, the Company has margin agreements with its counterparties whereby both parties are required to post cash margin in the event the fair values of the derivative financial instruments meet or exceed established thresholds and minimum transfer amounts. This process substantially mitigates counterparty credit risk. The right to receive cash margin placed by the Company with its counterparties is included in other assets, and the obligation to return cash margin received by the Company from its counterparties is included in payables and accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company has elected to record derivative assets and liabilities and related cash margin on a gross basis, even when a legally enforceable master netting arrangement exists between the Company and the derivative counterparty.

The derivative transactions described above are measured in terms of the notional amount. With the exception of IRLCs, the notional amount is generally not exchanged and is used only as a basis on which interest and other payments are determined.

Real Estate Owned, Net

Real estate owned, net is included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets, and represents properties acquired in satisfaction of residential loans. Upon foreclosure, or when the Company otherwise takes possession of the property, real estate owned is recorded at the lower of cost or estimated fair value less estimated costs to sell. The excess of cost over the fair value of the property acquired less estimated costs to sell, or net realizable value, is charged to the allowance for loan losses for residential loans carried at amortized cost, to other net fair value gains (losses) for mortgage loans carried at fair value, and to net fair value gains on reverse loans and related HMBS obligations for reverse loans. The fair value of the property is generally based upon historical resale recovery rates and current market conditions or appraisals. Subsequent declines in the value of real estate owned are recorded as adjustments to the carrying amount through a valuation allowance and are recorded in other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. Losses from the sale of real estate owned associated with reverse loans are typically covered by FHA insurance, the benefit of which is considered in the net realizable value estimate. To the extent these losses are not covered by the FHA insurance, they are recognized in other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss when incurred. Costs relating to the improvement of the property are capitalized to the extent the balance does not exceed its fair value, whereas those costs relating to maintaining the property are recorded when incurred to other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

The Company may finance the sale of its real estate owned for the portfolio associated with the Residual Trusts. Revenue from the sale of real estate owned is recognized by the full accrual method when the specific criteria for use of this method are met. However, frequently, the requirement for a minimum 5% initial cash investment for primary residences is not met. When this is the case, losses are recognized immediately while gains are deferred and recognized by the installment method until the borrower’s initial investment reaches the minimum 5% requirement. Once the borrower’s initial investment reaches the minimum required amount, revenue is recognized by the full accrual method. Gains and losses on the sale of real estate owned are charged to other expenses, net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss when incurred.

Insurance Operations

The Company earns commission revenue on voluntary insurance provided for residential loan borrowers and lender-placed hazard insurance for borrowers and credit owners, if permitted under applicable laws and regulations. Commission revenue is recognized when the earnings process has been completed, which is the effective date of the insurance policy, and collectability is reasonably assured. At the time commission revenue is recognized, the Company can reliably estimate expected policy cancellations and records a reserve for cancellations, which is estimated based on historical experience adjusted for known events or circumstances. The reserve for policy cancellations is evaluated on a quarterly basis and adjusted to reflect current estimates.

Servicer Payables

Servicer payables represent amounts collected that are required to be remitted to third-party trusts, credit owners, or others. These collections are primarily from borrowers whose loans the Company services.

Servicing Rights Related Liabilities

Servicing rights related liabilities consists of MSR liabilities related to NRM sales, excess servicing spread liabilities and servicing rights financing, as discussed below.

MSR Liabilities Related to NRM Sales

The Company records a liability for certain servicing rights that will be transferred to NRM under a recapture agreement. The Company elected to record MSR liabilities related to NRM sales at fair value consistent with the related servicing rights.

Excess Servicing Spread Liabilities

The Company recognized the proceeds from the sales to WCO of beneficial interests in certain portions of the contractual servicing fees associated with certain mortgage loans serviced by the Company as financing arrangements. The beneficial interest is referred to as excess servicing spread. The Company elected to record the excess servicing spread liabilities at fair value consistent with the related servicing rights. The change in fair value of the excess servicing spread liabilities is recorded in net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The change in fair value of the excess servicing spread liabilities includes the accretion of fair value, which is recorded using the effective interest method based on the expected cash flows from the excess servicing spreads through the expected life of the underlying loans. There is no contractual interest rate on excess servicing spread liabilities.

Servicing Rights Financing

From time to time, the Company will enter into certain transactions to sell certain servicing rights. The Company evaluates these transactions to determine if they are sales or structured financing arrangements. When these transfers qualify for sale treatment, the Company derecognizes the transferred assets on its consolidated balance sheets.

The Company has determined that not all risk of rewards and ownership were passed to WCO upon the sales of servicing rights. As a result, the Company accounted for these sales of servicing rights as secured borrowings. Under this accounting treatment, the servicing rights remain on the consolidated balance sheets and the proceeds from the sale of the servicing rights are recognized as servicing rights financing. The Company elected to record the servicing rights financing at fair value consistent with the related servicing rights. The change in fair value of the servicing rights financing is recorded in net servicing revenue and fees on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The change in fair value of the servicing rights financing includes the accretion of fair value, which is recorded using the effective interest method based on the expected cash flows from the servicing rights through the expected life of the underlying loans. There is no contractual interest rate on servicing rights financing. Proceeds from the sale of these servicing rights and payments on the servicing rights financing are included in financing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Debt and Other Obligations

Servicing advance liabilities, warehouse borrowings and corporate debt are carried at amortized cost. Servicing advance liabilities relating to term notes and corporate debt are also presented net of related discounts and deferred debt issuance costs. Deferred debt issuance costs associated with servicing advance liabilities with line-of-credit arrangements, warehouse borrowings and the 2013 Revolver are recorded in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Deferred debt issuance costs and original issue discounts, if any, are amortized to interest expense over the term of the debt or obligation using either the effective interest method or the straight-line method.

Mortgage-Backed Debt

The Company’s mortgage-backed debt associated with the Residual Trusts is carried at amortized cost, net of discounts and deferred debt issuance costs. These costs and original issue discounts, if any, are amortized to interest expense over the term of the debt using the effective interest method. The Company elected to carry mortgage-backed debt related to the Non-Residual Trusts at fair value. The yield on mortgage-backed debt and any change in fair value are recorded in other net fair value gains (losses) on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on mortgage-backed debt includes recognition of interest expense based on the stated interest rates of the debt, as well as the accretion of fair value.

HMBS Related Obligations

The Company recognizes the proceeds from the transfer of HMBS as a secured borrowing. The Company elected to record the secured borrowing, or the HMBS related obligations, at fair value. The yield on HMBS related obligations and any change in fair value are recorded in net fair value gains on reverse loans and related HMBS obligations on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The yield on HMBS related obligations includes recognition of contractual interest expense based on the stated interest rates of the obligations, as well as the accretion of fair value. Proceeds from securitizations of reverse loans and payments on HMBS related obligations are included in financing activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Other Revenues

Other revenues of the Other non-reportable segment include $36.8 million in asset management performance fees collected and earned in connection with the asset management of a fund for the year ended December 31, 2014. These asset management performance fees were earned in connection with the liquidation of the fund’s investments during the period and were based on the fund performance exceeding pre-defined thresholds. The Company records the asset management performance fees when the fund is terminated or when the likelihood of claw-back is improbable.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates for the periods in which the differences are expected to reverse. The change in deferred tax assets and liabilities due to a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period of the change.

Periodic reviews of the carrying amount of deferred tax assets are made to determine if the establishment of a valuation allowance is necessary. A valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. All evidence, both positive and negative, is evaluated when making this determination. Items considered in this analysis include the ability to carry back losses to recoup taxes previously paid, the reversal of temporary differences, tax planning strategies, historical financial performance, expectations of future earnings, and the length of statutory carryforward periods. Significant judgment is required in assessing future earnings trends and the timing of reversals of temporary differences.

The Company assesses its tax positions for all open tax years and determines whether it has any material unrecognized liabilities in accordance with the guidance on accounting for uncertain tax positions. The Company records interest and penalties on uncertain tax positions in income tax expense and general and administrative expenses, respectively, on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company has in effect stock incentive plans under which RSUs, performance shares and non-qualified stock options have been granted to employees and non-employee members of the Board of Directors. The Company estimates the fair value of share-based awards on the date of grant. The value of the award is generally recognized as an expense using the graded method over the requisite service period. The fair value of the Company’s RSUs is generally based on the average of the high and low market prices of its common stock on the date of grant. The Company estimates the fair value of performance shares and non-qualified stock options as of the date of grant using the Monte-Carlo simulation model and Black-Scholes option pricing model, respectively. These models consider, among other factors, the performance period or expected life of the award, the expected volatility of the Company’s stock price, and expected dividends. The Company records share-based compensation expense in salaries and benefits expense on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in general and administrative expenses on the consolidated statements of comprehensive loss. The Company recorded advertising expense of $25.0 million, $44.5 million and $31.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share

The Company uses the two-class method to determine earnings per share. Outstanding share-based payment awards that include non-forfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents, whether paid or unpaid, are considered participating securities and are included in the calculation of basic earnings per common share pursuant to the two-class method. The Company’s participating securities were comprised of RSUs. Under the two-class method, net income is reduced by the amount of dividends declared in the period for common stock and participating securities. The remaining undistributed earnings are then allocated to common stock and participating securities as if all of the net income for the period had been distributed. Basic earnings per share excludes dilution and is calculated by dividing net income allocable to common shares by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing net income allocable to common shares by the weighted-average number of common shares for the period, as adjusted for the potential dilutive effect of non-participating share-based awards and convertible debt, based on the treasury method. The Company uses the treasury method to compute the dilutive effect of convertible debt based on its intention to settle all conversions through combination settlement, which involves repayment of an amount of cash equal to the principal amount of convertible debt and any excess of conversion value over the principal amount of convertible debt in shares of common stock. During periods of net loss, diluted loss per share is equal to basic loss per share as the antidilutive effect of non-participating share-based awards and convertible debt is disregarded. No effect is given to participating securities in the computation of basic and diluted loss per share as these securities do not share in the losses of the Company.

Contingencies

The Company evaluates contingencies based on information currently available and establishes accruals for those matters when a loss contingency is considered probable and the related amount is reasonably estimable. For matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible but not probable, no accrual is established but the nature of the loss contingency and an estimate of the reasonably possible range of loss in excess of amounts accrued, when such estimate can be made, is disclosed. In deriving an estimate, the Company is required to make assumptions about matters that are, by their nature, highly uncertain. The assessment of loss contingencies, including legal contingencies and curtailment obligations, involves the use of critical estimates, assumptions and judgments. Whenever practicable, the Company consults with outside experts, including legal counsel and consultants, to assist with the gathering and evaluation of information related to contingent liabilities. It is not possible to predict or determine the outcome of all loss contingencies. Accruals are periodically reviewed and may be adjusted as circumstances change.