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
Economics | Remodeling
Mar 04, 2026
Top Markets for Remodeling in 2024Residential improvement activity remained solid in 2024, supported by an aging housing stock, elevated homeowner equity, and a growing need for aging-in-place improvements. Based on NAHB analysis of data from home improvement loan applications, see which markets saw the most remodeling activity.
Advocacy
Mar 04, 2026
NAHB's Monthly Update Highlights Advocacy PrioritiesThe talking points this month feature news related to President Trump’s tariffs and NAHB’s 2026 economic outlook.
Latest Economic News
Economics
Mar 03, 2026
Multifamily Absorption Rate Remains Below 50%The percentage of new apartment units that were absorbed within three months after completion was unchanged for new units completed in the second quarter, according to the Census Bureau’s latest release of the Survey of Market Absorption of New Multifamily Units (SOMA).
Economics
Mar 02, 2026
Private Residential Construction Spending Edges Higher in DecemberPrivate residential construction spending was up 1.5% for the last month of 2025. This modest gain was driven primarily by increased spending on home improvements and single-family construction. Despite this increase, total spending remained 1.3% lower than a year ago, reflecting the continued impact of housing affordability challenges facing the sector.
Economics
Mar 02, 2026
2024 Home Improvement Loan Applications: A State- and County-Level AnalysisResidential improvement activity remained solid in 2024, though growth has moderated from the surge seen in 2022.