

| FHA Expanded Limits Legislation: We're excited about this bill, which temporarily increases the conforming loan limit in selected Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs). This increase applies to loans originated through December 31, 2008. Jumbo sized loans with not-so-jumbo-sized pricing. The increased loan limits will make loan amounts greater than $417,000 available to consumers in these designated markets. We expect these consumers will have the opportunity to purchase a home or refinance their existing loan with improved pricing over jumbo loans. Although the agencies have yet to establish pricing, this scenario could be particularly attractive to consumers by making purchase money and refinance loans more affordable. The bill sets FHA and conforming loan limits to the lesser of $729,750 or 125% of an MSAs median home sales prices. Regardless of the median home price calculation, there will be no MSA with conforming loan limits below $417,000 The word on the street is.... Although the details have not been finalized, we believe the following products and parameters may be eligible: Purchase and refinance Fixed rate mortgages and fully amortizing ARMs Reduced LTVs Full documentation loans only Please understand these are the initial parameters and are subject to change prior to final publication. Well let you know very soon after they are finalized and communicate our implementation plans at that time. What happens next? According to the bill, new loan limits are to be established by HUD 30 days after the bill becomes law, around mid-March. The GSEs are assessing internal impacts to determine the delivery approach required of lenders. |
| > > One more reason having "RateWatch" information entered into our system benefits our Customers and Clients! |