FHFA Limit on Fannie and Freddie Loan Purchases to Qualified Mortgages

On May 6, the FHFA announced that it is directing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to limit future mortgage acquisitions to loans that fall under the requirements for a qualified mortgage.  Starting on January 10, 2014, Fannie and Freddie will no longer be able to purchase a mortgage loan that is subject to the “ability to repay” requirements under the Dodd-Frank Act if the loan: (i) is not fully amortizing; (ii) has a term of longer than 30 years; or (iii) includes points and fees in excess of 3% of the total loan amount (or such other limits for low balance loans as set forth in the rule).  FHFA ReleaseFannie Mae LetterFreddie Mac Letter.