FHA Legislation Will Help Homeowners, Economy, Says NAR

The FHA Modernization Act of 2007, passed today by the U.S. Senate, would help protect the interest of America’s current and future homeowners by giving borrowers a safer alternative to riskier mortgage products while also helping many homeowners who may be facing foreclosure, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

“A reformed FHA is positioned to help homeowners who face unaffordable mortgage payments as a result of resetting adjustable subprime loans and help bring stability to local markets and economies,” said NAR President Richard Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif. “NAR commends the leadership of Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev.; Senate Banking Chairman Christopher Dodd, D-Conn.; and Sens. Mel Martinez, R-Fla., and Richard Shelby, R-Ala., for passing the Federal Housing Administration reform bill, S. 2338, today.”

NAR has long supported FHA modernization legislation that would increase loan limits, reduce or eliminate the statutory 3 percent minimum cash down payment, and give FHA increased flexibility and the ability to streamline certain programs, in addition to strengthening the loss mitigation program.

“FHA can once again be a leader in providing safe loan products and preventing foreclosures by authorizing lenders to help borrowers who are in default. That assistance will make a substantial difference for many families that may otherwise face foreclosure,” Gaylord said.

In addition, the increase in FHA mortgage loan limits would help first-time home buyers, minority buyers, and people who do not qualify for conventional mortgages. Increased loan limits would also help people living in high-cost areas; current FHA limits make the program unusable in these areas,” said Gaylord.

Gaylord noted that FHA has made mortgage insurance widely available to individuals regardless of race, ethnicity or social status during periods of prosperity and economic depression. The FHA program makes it possible for higher risk yet creditworthy borrowers to obtain prime financing.

“NAR recognizes and appreciates the Senate’s bipartisan effort. We hope this bill is sent quickly to the President and that he signs it into law swiftly,” said Gaylord. “As the leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, NAR believes that FHA reform not only helps home buyers, but also is a good catalyst for the nation’s economy.”

The National Association of Realtors®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential