FHFA Further Extends Support for Borrowers
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced today that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will extend buying qualified loans in forbearance and several loan origination flexibilities until Oct. 31, 2020. The changes are to ensure continued support for borrowers during the COVID-19 national emergency. The flexibilities were set to expire next week on Sept. 30.
Extended flexibilities include:
- Buying qualified loans in forbearance;
- Alternative appraisals on purchase and rate term refinance loans;
- Alternative methods for documenting income and verifying employment before loan closing; and
- Expanding the use of power of attorney to assist with loan closings.
Latest from NAHBNow
Building Systems Councils
Dec 22, 2025
Can Offsite Housing Solve the Housing Affordability Crisis?Offsite construction – a method in which components are planned, designed, fabricated in a factory setting and then transported and assembled onsite – is something more community-based organizations (CBOs) are turning to as a solution to the housing affordability crisis.
Economics
Dec 22, 2025
Existing Home Sales Inch Higher in NovemberTotal existing home sales, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condos, rose 0.5% last month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.13 million, the highest level since February. November sales were still 1% lower than a year ago.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Dec 19, 2025
Existing Home Sales Edge Higher in NovemberExisting home sales rose for the third consecutive month in November as lower mortgage rates continued to boost home sales, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). However, the increase remained modest as mortgage rates still stayed above 6% while down from recent highs. The weakening job market also weighed on buyer activity.
Economics
Dec 18, 2025
Lumber Capacity Lower Midway Through 2025Sawmill production has remained essentially flat over the past two years, according to the Federal Reserve G.17 Industrial Production report. This most recent data release contained an annual revision, which resulted in higher estimates for both production and capacity in U.S. sawmills.
Economics
Dec 18, 2025
Inflation Slows in November (with a Caveat)Inflation unexpectedly eased in November, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) latest report. This data release was originally scheduled for December 10 but was delayed due to the recent government shutdown.