FHFA extends Covid-19 flexibilities until November 30

Federal Issues FHFA Mortgages Fannie Mae Freddie Mac GSE

On October 19, the FHFA announced the extension of several loan origination guidelines put in place to assist borrowers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Specifically, FHFA extended until November 30 existing guidelines related to: (i) alternative appraisal requirements on purchase and rate term refinance loans; (ii) alternative methods for documenting income and verifying employment before loan closing; and (iii) expanding the use of power of attorney to assist with loan closings. The extensions are implemented in updates to Fannie Mae Lender Letters LL-2020-03, LL 2020-04, and Freddie Mac Guide Bulletin 2020-37.