FHFA announces final extension of Covid-19 flexibilities through May 31

Federal Issues FHFA Mortgages Covid-19 Fannie Mae Freddie Mac GSE Appraisal

On April 21, the FHFA announced a final extension of certain loan origination guidelines put in place to assist borrowers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Specifically, the FHFA extended until May 31 existing guidelines related to: (i) alternative appraisal requirements on purchase and rate term refinance loans; (ii) completion report flexibilities; and (iii) Freddie Mac’s CHOICERenovation Mortgage flexibilities. The extensions are implemented in updates to Fannie Mae Lender Letter LL-2021-04 and Freddie Mac Guide Bulletin 2021-15. FHFA stated, however, that other temporary flexibilities will expire as scheduled on April 30, including alternative methods for employment verification, condominium project reviews, and expanded power of attorney.