FHA published a proposal on July 15th announcing changes to important underwriting requirements. Lenders and brokers must be aware of a problem in the fine print and respond to FHA immediately! FHA is not only changing the maximum seller contribution from 6% down to 3% they have changed the definition of ‘interested third party’ in a footnote at the bottom of page 41220. FHA’s 4155.1 currently... [Read more]
Everyone in the mortgage industry, including borrowers are all too familiar with the challenge of trying to determine whether the comparables provided by the appraiser are adequate. Typically the underwriter is concerned that the value is inflated and the borrower and loan officer are concerned that the value is too low. The ‘tip toe’ around the home valuation code of conduct and requesting additional... [Read more]
Realtors and builders are realizing that their new state licensing laws may include a provision to require a license when you sell a non-owner occupied property on a land contract. Many people have never used or heard of land contracts. They were popular in the late 70’s, early 80’s and prior when mortgage’s didn’t have a due on sale clause. Under a land contract, the seller retains ownership... [Read more]
FHA ML 10-20 outlined the provisions for HUD’s reform of the lender approval process. Effective May 20th 2011 most lenders must possess a net worth of at least $1m (20% must be liquid assets). The only exception is for small lenders as defined by the Small Business Administration: o mortgage & non mortgage brokers with $7million or less in gross receipts; o Banks, Savings institutions and credit... [Read more]
HUD issues Final Rule RE: Home Warranty Companies and Section 8 Violations On June 25, 2010, HUD issued a final rule addressing whether compensation paid by Home Warranty Companies to real estate and mortgage brokers violates Section 8 (the “anti-kickback” section) of RESPA. The rule is effective on the date it was published (June 25), but HUD is accepting public comments until July 26, 2010. Some... [Read more]