From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 30, 2009
Major banks are spotting opportunities and getting back into the business of making jumbo loans.
Bank of America, the country’s largest mortgage lender since it acquired Countrywide, has renamed its lending arm Banking of America Home Loans and is rolling out a program to finance loans between $730,000 and $1.5 million.
“There’s a real need for loans of this size," says Barbara Desire, who heads consumer real estate operations.
Other lenders moving into this space include ING Group, Amsterdam-based banking and insurance conglomerate, which will offer jumbos as large as $2 million through ING Direct.
Source: Washington Post Writers Group, Kenneth R. Harney (03/21/2009)
Monday, March 30, 2009
6 Reasons Why It's Still a Good Time to Buy
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 30, 2009
The housing market is looking healthier.
Here are six reasons why now is the time to jump into the market.
1. Uncle Sam is willing to help. First-time buyers (defined as anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years) are entitled to a maximum $8,000 tax credit; interest rates are at record lows; and the Federal Reserve is doing its best to make mortgage loans available. (Sign up for a Webinar to learn more about the home buyer tax credit)
2. People have to live somewhere. About 800,000 new households are formed each year in this country, ensuring that the housing market will tighten, even if the economy doesn’t soar.
3. Borrowers leverage their investment. If you put $10,000 into the stock market and it earns 10 percent, you’ve earned $1,000. If you put $10,000 down on a home and its values increases 10 percent, you’ve made $10,000.
4. When prices come back up, you’ll have instant equity. In parts of the country where foreclosures have driven down prices, better times will mean the price of the home you buy will rise rapidly.
5. Mortgage costs stay the same. If you get a fixed-rate mortgage, the monthly payment stays the same – while everything else, including rent, goes upward.
6. You own it. There is something comforting in the notion that your home is your own. You can paint it any color you want, let the dog run in the back yard and hang a swing for the kids in the front.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, June Fletcher (03/27/2009)
The housing market is looking healthier.
Here are six reasons why now is the time to jump into the market.
1. Uncle Sam is willing to help. First-time buyers (defined as anyone who hasn’t owned a home in the last three years) are entitled to a maximum $8,000 tax credit; interest rates are at record lows; and the Federal Reserve is doing its best to make mortgage loans available. (Sign up for a Webinar to learn more about the home buyer tax credit)
2. People have to live somewhere. About 800,000 new households are formed each year in this country, ensuring that the housing market will tighten, even if the economy doesn’t soar.
3. Borrowers leverage their investment. If you put $10,000 into the stock market and it earns 10 percent, you’ve earned $1,000. If you put $10,000 down on a home and its values increases 10 percent, you’ve made $10,000.
4. When prices come back up, you’ll have instant equity. In parts of the country where foreclosures have driven down prices, better times will mean the price of the home you buy will rise rapidly.
5. Mortgage costs stay the same. If you get a fixed-rate mortgage, the monthly payment stays the same – while everything else, including rent, goes upward.
6. You own it. There is something comforting in the notion that your home is your own. You can paint it any color you want, let the dog run in the back yard and hang a swing for the kids in the front.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, June Fletcher (03/27/2009)
Friday, March 27, 2009
Fed Plans Spark Drop in 30-Year Rates
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 27, 2009
The average interest on a 30-year mortgage fell to a 38-year low of 4.85 percent during the week ending March 27 from 4.98 percent the prior week, Freddie Mac reported.
The decrease came on the heels of the Federal Reserve's announcement that it plans to purchase another $750 billion in mortgage-backed securities and up to $300 million in Treasuries. President Obama says refinancing is now possible for 40 percent of mortgages and encourages home owners to reap the benefits of the record-low rates.
Source: Boston Globe (03/27/09)
The average interest on a 30-year mortgage fell to a 38-year low of 4.85 percent during the week ending March 27 from 4.98 percent the prior week, Freddie Mac reported.
The decrease came on the heels of the Federal Reserve's announcement that it plans to purchase another $750 billion in mortgage-backed securities and up to $300 million in Treasuries. President Obama says refinancing is now possible for 40 percent of mortgages and encourages home owners to reap the benefits of the record-low rates.
Source: Boston Globe (03/27/09)
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Survey: Households Say Now is Good Time to Buy
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 26, 2009
More than three-quarters (78 percent) of potential first-time home buyers say that now is a good time to buy a home, despite widespread concern about the economy. Out of the 1,000 prospective U.S. first-time home buyers surveyed in early March for the CENTURY 21 First-Time Home Buyer Survey, 68 percent think now is a better time to buy than six months ago.
Prices are the driving motivation for potential first-time home buyers with more than eight of ten first-time home buyers (85 percent) saying they consider current home prices affordable and 73 percent citing that taking advantage of current prices is a major factor in their decision to buy. Interestingly, potential first-time buyers are still split between “being willing to consider an offer now” (42 percent) and “waiting for prices to go down before they seriously consider making a purchase” (48 percent).
“Current pricing, rates and incentives, such as the First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit, provide tremendous opportunities for first-time home buyers to get into the market,” said Tom Kunz, Century 21 Real Estate president and CEO. “Our research shows that while consumers still have concerns about the future of the economy, many are actively considering their options as we move into the spring selling season.”
Among the survey’s other key findings:
* Bargains in the marketplace are providing additional options for buyers to consider. 56 percent of potential first-time home buyers are considering purchasing a foreclosed or short sale home, and 63 percent are open to purchasing either a “fixer-upper” or “as-is” home.
* When asked to rate the features that they look for when choosing a home, price is the primary consideration with 87 percent saying this feature is “very important,” followed closely by neighborhood safety (80 percent) and the condition of the home (71 percent).
* Having enough money for a down payment is a top concern of potential first-time home buyers as nearly half (46 percent) said they are “very worried” about the issue.
* Most respondents (86 percent) are in the market for single family homes.
Source: Century 21
More than three-quarters (78 percent) of potential first-time home buyers say that now is a good time to buy a home, despite widespread concern about the economy. Out of the 1,000 prospective U.S. first-time home buyers surveyed in early March for the CENTURY 21 First-Time Home Buyer Survey, 68 percent think now is a better time to buy than six months ago.
Prices are the driving motivation for potential first-time home buyers with more than eight of ten first-time home buyers (85 percent) saying they consider current home prices affordable and 73 percent citing that taking advantage of current prices is a major factor in their decision to buy. Interestingly, potential first-time buyers are still split between “being willing to consider an offer now” (42 percent) and “waiting for prices to go down before they seriously consider making a purchase” (48 percent).
“Current pricing, rates and incentives, such as the First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit, provide tremendous opportunities for first-time home buyers to get into the market,” said Tom Kunz, Century 21 Real Estate president and CEO. “Our research shows that while consumers still have concerns about the future of the economy, many are actively considering their options as we move into the spring selling season.”
Among the survey’s other key findings:
* Bargains in the marketplace are providing additional options for buyers to consider. 56 percent of potential first-time home buyers are considering purchasing a foreclosed or short sale home, and 63 percent are open to purchasing either a “fixer-upper” or “as-is” home.
* When asked to rate the features that they look for when choosing a home, price is the primary consideration with 87 percent saying this feature is “very important,” followed closely by neighborhood safety (80 percent) and the condition of the home (71 percent).
* Having enough money for a down payment is a top concern of potential first-time home buyers as nearly half (46 percent) said they are “very worried” about the issue.
* Most respondents (86 percent) are in the market for single family homes.
Source: Century 21
Commerce: New-home Sales See Rise in February
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 26, 2009
The U.S. Commerce Department reported that new-home sales rose 4.7 percent in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 337,000, up from a revised January figure of 322,000.
The January rate was the worst since records were first kept in 1963, and yesterday’s report was actually better than most economists feared it would be.
The report is "another faint but nonetheless encouraging sign that the economic slide may be moderating," wrote David Resler, chief U.S. economist at Nomura Securities.
At the current sales pace, the government estimated that it would take a year to exhaust the inventory of new homes on the market.
Source: The Associated Press, Alan Zibel (03/25/2009)
The U.S. Commerce Department reported that new-home sales rose 4.7 percent in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 337,000, up from a revised January figure of 322,000.
The January rate was the worst since records were first kept in 1963, and yesterday’s report was actually better than most economists feared it would be.
The report is "another faint but nonetheless encouraging sign that the economic slide may be moderating," wrote David Resler, chief U.S. economist at Nomura Securities.
At the current sales pace, the government estimated that it would take a year to exhaust the inventory of new homes on the market.
Source: The Associated Press, Alan Zibel (03/25/2009)
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
As Rates Fall, Mortgage Applications Jump
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 25, 2009
For the second straight week, mortgage applications rose significantly in response to the government’s efforts to stabilize housing and the economy.
The Mortgage Bankers Association’s week index reached 1159.4, an increase of 32.2 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis from 876.9 the previous week. On an unadjusted basis, the index rose 31.4 percent and was up 18 percent compared with the same week a year ago.
The refinance index increased 41.5 percent, while the purchase index rose 4.2 percent. Overall, the refinance share of mortgage activity hit 78.5 percent, up from 72.9 the previous week.
“Mortgage rates fell sharply to low levels not seen in six decades following the Federal Reserve’s announcement on the Treasury bond and mortgage-backed securities purchase programs. The drop offered a sizable refinance incentive for most homeowners sparking a pickup in refinance activity,” said Orawin Velz, Associate Vice President of Economic Forecasting.
Mortgage rates continued to decline:
* 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.63 percent from 4.89 percent.
* 15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.48 percent from 4.52 percent.
* 1-year ARMs increased to 6.22 percent.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (03/25/2009)
For the second straight week, mortgage applications rose significantly in response to the government’s efforts to stabilize housing and the economy.
The Mortgage Bankers Association’s week index reached 1159.4, an increase of 32.2 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis from 876.9 the previous week. On an unadjusted basis, the index rose 31.4 percent and was up 18 percent compared with the same week a year ago.
The refinance index increased 41.5 percent, while the purchase index rose 4.2 percent. Overall, the refinance share of mortgage activity hit 78.5 percent, up from 72.9 the previous week.
“Mortgage rates fell sharply to low levels not seen in six decades following the Federal Reserve’s announcement on the Treasury bond and mortgage-backed securities purchase programs. The drop offered a sizable refinance incentive for most homeowners sparking a pickup in refinance activity,” said Orawin Velz, Associate Vice President of Economic Forecasting.
Mortgage rates continued to decline:
* 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.63 percent from 4.89 percent.
* 15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.48 percent from 4.52 percent.
* 1-year ARMs increased to 6.22 percent.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (03/25/2009)
Home Prices Edged up in January
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 25, 2009
Home prices rose 1.7 percent in January, up for the first time in 10 months, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which only reports prices for conforming properties with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Many analysts were skeptical about the results because the report excludes expensive homes with subprime loans and jumbo mortgages.
The government did note that sales numbers in January were low and that could skew the results.
Meanwhile, the Commerce Department is expected to report today that new home sales fell in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 300,000 units from 309,000 units in January. This is the lowest level since 1963.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, Kelly Evans and the Associated Press (03/25/2009)
Home prices rose 1.7 percent in January, up for the first time in 10 months, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which only reports prices for conforming properties with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Many analysts were skeptical about the results because the report excludes expensive homes with subprime loans and jumbo mortgages.
The government did note that sales numbers in January were low and that could skew the results.
Meanwhile, the Commerce Department is expected to report today that new home sales fell in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 300,000 units from 309,000 units in January. This is the lowest level since 1963.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, Kelly Evans and the Associated Press (03/25/2009)
Monday, March 23, 2009
Survey: Americans Still Eager to Buy
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 23, 2009
Nearly 25 percent of adults say they plan to purchase a home in the next five years and half of those (53.5 percent) will be first-time home buyers, according to a survey commissioned by Move Inc., operator of Realtor.com.
More than 18 percent cite the $8,000 tax credit as a motivating factor. Potential home buyers with higher incomes are more interested in the tax credit than those in lower income brackets, with 43.4 percent of potential first-time buyers who earn $50,000 or more saying they plan to use the tax credit.
According to the survey, half of all Americans (49.6 percent) are paying more attention to home values today than they were a year ago, especially those ages 25 to 34 (61.9 percent). The median age of first-time home buyers is 30 years old.
The Move survey uncovered changing attitudes toward owning a home. About two-thirds (62.5 percent) now consider their home primarily a place to live as opposed to an investment. Adults earning up to $20,000 and between $30,000 and $39,900 annually are significantly more likely to feel most strongly that a home is more of a place to live than an investment as compared to those earning $50,000 or more.
When presented with a list of amenities, home owners wanted it all–with more space leading the list (about 10 percent chose that option). Other amenities that were high on many shoppers’ lists included energy saving features (6.8 percent), bigger or nicer yard (6.1 percent), a better location (4.2 percent), or updated amenities (3.4 percent).
The Move survey also found that 18 percent plan to take advantage of the Obama administrations program to prevent foreclosures. But even for those who are not in foreclosure, they reported the following:
* 21 percent of all home owners with a mortgage contacted a lender in the last 12 months to restructure their loans.
* 10.6 percent received help; 5 percent are still waiting for an answer.
* 27 percent know someone who is likely to face foreclosure.
* 25.6 percent know someone whose mortgage is underwater.
Source: Move Inc. (03/23/2009)
Nearly 25 percent of adults say they plan to purchase a home in the next five years and half of those (53.5 percent) will be first-time home buyers, according to a survey commissioned by Move Inc., operator of Realtor.com.
More than 18 percent cite the $8,000 tax credit as a motivating factor. Potential home buyers with higher incomes are more interested in the tax credit than those in lower income brackets, with 43.4 percent of potential first-time buyers who earn $50,000 or more saying they plan to use the tax credit.
According to the survey, half of all Americans (49.6 percent) are paying more attention to home values today than they were a year ago, especially those ages 25 to 34 (61.9 percent). The median age of first-time home buyers is 30 years old.
The Move survey uncovered changing attitudes toward owning a home. About two-thirds (62.5 percent) now consider their home primarily a place to live as opposed to an investment. Adults earning up to $20,000 and between $30,000 and $39,900 annually are significantly more likely to feel most strongly that a home is more of a place to live than an investment as compared to those earning $50,000 or more.
When presented with a list of amenities, home owners wanted it all–with more space leading the list (about 10 percent chose that option). Other amenities that were high on many shoppers’ lists included energy saving features (6.8 percent), bigger or nicer yard (6.1 percent), a better location (4.2 percent), or updated amenities (3.4 percent).
The Move survey also found that 18 percent plan to take advantage of the Obama administrations program to prevent foreclosures. But even for those who are not in foreclosure, they reported the following:
* 21 percent of all home owners with a mortgage contacted a lender in the last 12 months to restructure their loans.
* 10.6 percent received help; 5 percent are still waiting for an answer.
* 27 percent know someone who is likely to face foreclosure.
* 25.6 percent know someone whose mortgage is underwater.
Source: Move Inc. (03/23/2009)
First-time Home Buyers Drive February Sales
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 23, 2009
Existing-home sales increased in February, reversing losses in January, according to the latest report by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. However, sales activity remains relatively soft, reflecting additional layoffs and buyers waiting for housing provisions in the economic stimulus package to take effect, according to NAR.
Existing-home sales— including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops—rose 5.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.72 million units in February from a pace of 4.49 million units in January. Existing-home sales are 4.6 percent below the 4.95 million-unit level in February 2008. Seasonal adjustment factors are more volatile in winter months, but sales rates over the past few months show dampened sales activity, according to NAR.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, says first-time buyers accounted for half of all home sales last month, with activity concentrated in lower price ranges.
“Because entry level buyers are shopping for bargains, distressed sales accounted for 40 to 45 percent of transactions in February,” he says. “Our analysis shows that distressed homes typically are selling for 20 percent less than the normal market price, and this naturally is drawing down the overall median price.”
Home Buyer Tax Credit Increases Activity
NAR President Charles McMillan says home shopping activity has picked up with housing affordability at a record high.
“The number of buyers looking for homes rose 5 percent in February, and also was 5 percent above a year ago,” he says. “It appears most of the increase in buyer traffic occurred in the latter part of the month after the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit was put in place. At the same time, mortgage purchase applications have risen, so we expect to see sales picking up around late spring.”
McMillan notes that more potential buyers are learning about the tax credit, just as the traditional spring home-buying season begins.
Existing-Home Sales Rise in February
The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $165,400 in February, down 15.5 percent from a year ago when the median was $195,800 and conditions were close to normal. The median is where half of the homes sold for more and half sold for less.
“Given the downward distortion in price comparisons due to distressed sales, it’s important for owners to keep in mind that this doesn’t equate to a similar loss of value for traditional homes in good condition,” Yun says.
Housing inventory: Total housing inventory at the end of February rose 5.2 percent to 3.80 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 9.7-month supply at the current sales pace, unchanged from January. In the six months prior to February, the total number of homes for sale had steadily declined from a record level last July.
Single-family home sales: rose 4.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.23 million in February from a level of 4.05 million in January, but are 3.6 percent below the 4.39 million-unit pace in February 2008. The median existing single-family home price was $164,600 in February, down 15 percent from a year ago.
Existing condominium and co-op sales: increased 11.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 490,000 units in February from 440,000 units in January, but are 13.1 percent lower than the 564,000-unit pace a year ago. The median existing condo price was $172,200 in February, which is 18.7 percent lower than February 2008.
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage edged up to 5.13 percent in February from a record low 5.05 percent in January. The rate was 5.92 percent in February 2008. Last month’s average mortgage rate was the second lowest since data collection began in 1971. Last week the rate further declined to 4.98 percent.
Regional Breakdown
Yun says a recovery in the West is much stronger than expected. “Strong sales gains in the West are led by California, where the median listing price is beginning to rise for the first time in three years,” he says.
Here's how existing-home sales fared across the country:
* Northeast: jumped 15.6 percent to an annual pace of 740,000 in February, but 14.9 percent below February 2008. Median price: $251,200, down 4.8 percent from a year ago.
* Midwest: increased 1 percent in February to a pace of 1.04 million but 14 percent lower than a year ago. Median price: $131,000, which is 7.8 percent below February 2008.
* South: rose 6.1 percent to an annual pace of 1.74 million in February but 11.2 percent below February 2008. Median price: $146,700, down 10 percent from a year ago.
* West: increased 2.6 percent to an annual rate of 1.2 million in February and remain 30.4 percent higher than a year ago. Median price: $204,600, which is 30.3 percent below February 2008.
Source: NAR
Existing-home sales increased in February, reversing losses in January, according to the latest report by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. However, sales activity remains relatively soft, reflecting additional layoffs and buyers waiting for housing provisions in the economic stimulus package to take effect, according to NAR.
Existing-home sales— including single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops—rose 5.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.72 million units in February from a pace of 4.49 million units in January. Existing-home sales are 4.6 percent below the 4.95 million-unit level in February 2008. Seasonal adjustment factors are more volatile in winter months, but sales rates over the past few months show dampened sales activity, according to NAR.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, says first-time buyers accounted for half of all home sales last month, with activity concentrated in lower price ranges.
“Because entry level buyers are shopping for bargains, distressed sales accounted for 40 to 45 percent of transactions in February,” he says. “Our analysis shows that distressed homes typically are selling for 20 percent less than the normal market price, and this naturally is drawing down the overall median price.”
Home Buyer Tax Credit Increases Activity
NAR President Charles McMillan says home shopping activity has picked up with housing affordability at a record high.
“The number of buyers looking for homes rose 5 percent in February, and also was 5 percent above a year ago,” he says. “It appears most of the increase in buyer traffic occurred in the latter part of the month after the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit was put in place. At the same time, mortgage purchase applications have risen, so we expect to see sales picking up around late spring.”
McMillan notes that more potential buyers are learning about the tax credit, just as the traditional spring home-buying season begins.
Existing-Home Sales Rise in February
The national median existing-home price for all housing types was $165,400 in February, down 15.5 percent from a year ago when the median was $195,800 and conditions were close to normal. The median is where half of the homes sold for more and half sold for less.
“Given the downward distortion in price comparisons due to distressed sales, it’s important for owners to keep in mind that this doesn’t equate to a similar loss of value for traditional homes in good condition,” Yun says.
Housing inventory: Total housing inventory at the end of February rose 5.2 percent to 3.80 million existing homes available for sale, which represents a 9.7-month supply at the current sales pace, unchanged from January. In the six months prior to February, the total number of homes for sale had steadily declined from a record level last July.
Single-family home sales: rose 4.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.23 million in February from a level of 4.05 million in January, but are 3.6 percent below the 4.39 million-unit pace in February 2008. The median existing single-family home price was $164,600 in February, down 15 percent from a year ago.
Existing condominium and co-op sales: increased 11.4 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 490,000 units in February from 440,000 units in January, but are 13.1 percent lower than the 564,000-unit pace a year ago. The median existing condo price was $172,200 in February, which is 18.7 percent lower than February 2008.
According to Freddie Mac, the national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage edged up to 5.13 percent in February from a record low 5.05 percent in January. The rate was 5.92 percent in February 2008. Last month’s average mortgage rate was the second lowest since data collection began in 1971. Last week the rate further declined to 4.98 percent.
Regional Breakdown
Yun says a recovery in the West is much stronger than expected. “Strong sales gains in the West are led by California, where the median listing price is beginning to rise for the first time in three years,” he says.
Here's how existing-home sales fared across the country:
* Northeast: jumped 15.6 percent to an annual pace of 740,000 in February, but 14.9 percent below February 2008. Median price: $251,200, down 4.8 percent from a year ago.
* Midwest: increased 1 percent in February to a pace of 1.04 million but 14 percent lower than a year ago. Median price: $131,000, which is 7.8 percent below February 2008.
* South: rose 6.1 percent to an annual pace of 1.74 million in February but 11.2 percent below February 2008. Median price: $146,700, down 10 percent from a year ago.
* West: increased 2.6 percent to an annual rate of 1.2 million in February and remain 30.4 percent higher than a year ago. Median price: $204,600, which is 30.3 percent below February 2008.
Source: NAR
What is involved with an appraisal?
Looking objectively at something is difficult for something as personal as a house. However, that is the very thing that an appraiser must do.
When buying, selling or refinancing a house one of the major drivers of the transaction is the house itself and in particular the value placed on it by an appraiser.
In addition to things that are not visible to the naked eye regarding a particular property; i.e. property taxes, clear title, easements, deed covenants, zoning, warranties and present and proposed assessments, there are items that are rather obvious. These concrete factors include room counts, age of the subject property, improvements made including kitchen and bathroom upgrades, square footage, proximity to shopping, employment and schools, age of the neighborhood, general value and condition of the neighborhood as well as general condition of the property. These factors are all taken into account by the appraiser.
To arrive at a market value estimate, an appraiser must consider both general and specific data as well as a comparison of similar homes. General data includes regional, city and neighborhood information and incorporates physical, economic and social factors that may influence property value.
In certain neighborhoods many of the homes are very similar if not identical. If your neighbors house sells for a certain amount and your house is nearly identical then that would be a good indicator of an approximate value for your home.
However, the thing to keep in mind is that as every customer is different, so is every house different. There are times that are considered “buyers markets” and other times that are considered “sellers markets.” Two nearly identical houses could have a drastically different value based on factors other than the house itself. In addition to the physical structures themselves an appraiser must also review economic conditions, supply and demand conditions, political or zoning factors and financing conditions.
As with a lot of things there are always areas open for interpretation, but when dealing with a certified mortgage professional there will be no guesswork when determining a values property.
When buying, selling or refinancing a house one of the major drivers of the transaction is the house itself and in particular the value placed on it by an appraiser.
In addition to things that are not visible to the naked eye regarding a particular property; i.e. property taxes, clear title, easements, deed covenants, zoning, warranties and present and proposed assessments, there are items that are rather obvious. These concrete factors include room counts, age of the subject property, improvements made including kitchen and bathroom upgrades, square footage, proximity to shopping, employment and schools, age of the neighborhood, general value and condition of the neighborhood as well as general condition of the property. These factors are all taken into account by the appraiser.
To arrive at a market value estimate, an appraiser must consider both general and specific data as well as a comparison of similar homes. General data includes regional, city and neighborhood information and incorporates physical, economic and social factors that may influence property value.
In certain neighborhoods many of the homes are very similar if not identical. If your neighbors house sells for a certain amount and your house is nearly identical then that would be a good indicator of an approximate value for your home.
However, the thing to keep in mind is that as every customer is different, so is every house different. There are times that are considered “buyers markets” and other times that are considered “sellers markets.” Two nearly identical houses could have a drastically different value based on factors other than the house itself. In addition to the physical structures themselves an appraiser must also review economic conditions, supply and demand conditions, political or zoning factors and financing conditions.
As with a lot of things there are always areas open for interpretation, but when dealing with a certified mortgage professional there will be no guesswork when determining a values property.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Cramdown Bill Stalled in Senate
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 20, 2009
The plan to allow judges to write down mortgage debt for people in bankruptcy court, a practice known as “cramdowns,” is stalled in the U.S. Senate.
The measure has passed the House already, but will need 60 votes to gain Senate approval. Senate Democrats have been unable to get a handful of moderates from both parties to agree to vote their way. Some lawmakers say the rule would penalize borrowers who have kept current with their mortgage payments.
President Obama included the cramdown idea as part of his broader housing plan.
Banks and other financial institution oppose court-ordered mortgage workouts because they say they it increases the risk for lenders and ultimately will raise mortgage rates.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, Elizabeth Williamson (03/20/2009)
The plan to allow judges to write down mortgage debt for people in bankruptcy court, a practice known as “cramdowns,” is stalled in the U.S. Senate.
The measure has passed the House already, but will need 60 votes to gain Senate approval. Senate Democrats have been unable to get a handful of moderates from both parties to agree to vote their way. Some lawmakers say the rule would penalize borrowers who have kept current with their mortgage payments.
President Obama included the cramdown idea as part of his broader housing plan.
Banks and other financial institution oppose court-ordered mortgage workouts because they say they it increases the risk for lenders and ultimately will raise mortgage rates.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, Elizabeth Williamson (03/20/2009)
Mortgage Rates Drop Below 5%
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 20, 2009
Freddie Mac reports a drop in the 30-year fixed mortgage rate to 4.98 percent during the week ended March 19 from 5.03 percent the prior year, marking the lowest rate since 4.96 percent in mid-January.
Experts say rates could fall further in response to the Federal Reserve's announcement that it will add $1.2 trillion to the economy to alleviate the credit crisis.
Source: Tulsa World (Okla.) (03/20/09)
Freddie Mac reports a drop in the 30-year fixed mortgage rate to 4.98 percent during the week ended March 19 from 5.03 percent the prior year, marking the lowest rate since 4.96 percent in mid-January.
Experts say rates could fall further in response to the Federal Reserve's announcement that it will add $1.2 trillion to the economy to alleviate the credit crisis.
Source: Tulsa World (Okla.) (03/20/09)
Major Banks Re-Enter Jumbo Arena
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 20, 2009
Bank of America is among the major banks rolling out jumbo mortgage programs and holding the loans in their own portfolios.
It will offer loans from $730,000 to $1.5 million with 30-year fixed rates under 6 percent; but borrowers must make a 20-percent down payment, have good credit, provide proof of income, and hold six months' of principal, interest, property tax, and insurance payments in reserve.
Other banks offering jumbo loans include ING Group's ING Direct unit and Luxury Loans of San Diego.
Source: Chicago Daily Herald, Ken Harney (03/20/09)
Bank of America is among the major banks rolling out jumbo mortgage programs and holding the loans in their own portfolios.
It will offer loans from $730,000 to $1.5 million with 30-year fixed rates under 6 percent; but borrowers must make a 20-percent down payment, have good credit, provide proof of income, and hold six months' of principal, interest, property tax, and insurance payments in reserve.
Other banks offering jumbo loans include ING Group's ING Direct unit and Luxury Loans of San Diego.
Source: Chicago Daily Herald, Ken Harney (03/20/09)
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Mortgage-Help Site, Call-in Number Go Live
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 19, 2009
The U.S. Treasury Department went live on March 19 with its Making Home Affordable program, which aims to help homeowners refinance or modify their mortgages.
The campaign includes a Web site at makinghomeaffordable.gov as well as a telephone hotline number at (888) 995-4673.
The federal government is targeting 9 million homeowners whose loans are held by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Source: Indianapolis Star (03/19/09)
The U.S. Treasury Department went live on March 19 with its Making Home Affordable program, which aims to help homeowners refinance or modify their mortgages.
The campaign includes a Web site at makinghomeaffordable.gov as well as a telephone hotline number at (888) 995-4673.
The federal government is targeting 9 million homeowners whose loans are held by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Source: Indianapolis Star (03/19/09)
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Low Rates Boost Mortgage Activity
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 18, 2009
Mortgage applications zoomed upward last week, with the index rising 21.2 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis to 876.9 from 723.4 the previous week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.
On an unadjusted basis, the index increased 20.7 percent compared to the previous week and was up 31.2 percent from the same week a year ago.
Much of the increase was in refinances, reflecting a significant decline in rates. The refinance index increased 29.6 percent, while the purchase index was up only 1.5 percent. The refinance share of mortgage activity reached 72.9 percent.
Average interest rates were down:
* 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.89 percent from 4.96 percent;
* 15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.52 percent from 4.54 percent;
* 1-year ARMs decreased to 6.20 percent from 6.21 percent.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (03/18/2009)
Mortgage applications zoomed upward last week, with the index rising 21.2 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis to 876.9 from 723.4 the previous week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.
On an unadjusted basis, the index increased 20.7 percent compared to the previous week and was up 31.2 percent from the same week a year ago.
Much of the increase was in refinances, reflecting a significant decline in rates. The refinance index increased 29.6 percent, while the purchase index was up only 1.5 percent. The refinance share of mortgage activity reached 72.9 percent.
Average interest rates were down:
* 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.89 percent from 4.96 percent;
* 15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.52 percent from 4.54 percent;
* 1-year ARMs decreased to 6.20 percent from 6.21 percent.
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (03/18/2009)
Underwater Owners May Keep Walking Away
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 18, 2009
Housing economists are growing increasingly worried that home owners whose properties are underwater will stop trying to pay their mortgages and just walk away.
In all, the total value of U.S. residential properties fell to $19.1 trillion in December 2008 from $21.5 trillion in December 2007. About 52 percent of Nevada mortgages are underwater, followed by 32 percent in Arizona and 30 percent in both Florida and California, according to researcher First American CoreLogic.
"Should the downward spiral in home prices, neighborhood condition, and equity deterioration continue, more and more mainstream borrowers are likely to walk away from their homes," Credit Suisse said in a December report.
Source: Reuters News, Lisa Baertlein (03/17/2009)
Housing economists are growing increasingly worried that home owners whose properties are underwater will stop trying to pay their mortgages and just walk away.
In all, the total value of U.S. residential properties fell to $19.1 trillion in December 2008 from $21.5 trillion in December 2007. About 52 percent of Nevada mortgages are underwater, followed by 32 percent in Arizona and 30 percent in both Florida and California, according to researcher First American CoreLogic.
"Should the downward spiral in home prices, neighborhood condition, and equity deterioration continue, more and more mainstream borrowers are likely to walk away from their homes," Credit Suisse said in a December report.
Source: Reuters News, Lisa Baertlein (03/17/2009)
San Diego Home Sales Up, Prices Down
San Diego - Home sales in San Diego County jumped by 26.6 percent in February, compared to the same month a year ago, but prices dropped by 31.1 percent, a real estate information service reported Tuesday.
A total of 2,473 homes sold in February, up from 1,954 for February 2008, while the median price of a home in San Diego County last month was $285,000, down from $415,000 in the same month a year ago, according to La Jolla-based MDA DataQuick.
According to DataQuick, home sales in the six-county Southern California region in February jumped by 41.3 percent over the same month last year, while home prices dipped 38.7 percent to $250,000.
"The market is so tilted away from normal mainstream activity that it's impossible to generalize or predict based on the atypical patterns we're seeing," said john Walsh, MDA DataQuick president. "That means that normal demand and supply is building up. The floodgates could open once mortgage credit starts to open up."
A total of 15,231 new and resale homes sold in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, San Bernardino and Orange counties last month. That was virtually unchanged from 15,227 in January and up 41.3 percent from 10,777 in February 2008.
The median price of a Southern California home was $250,000 in February, the same as it was in January. The median price was down 38.7 percent from $408,000 in February 2008.
A total of 2,473 homes sold in February, up from 1,954 for February 2008, while the median price of a home in San Diego County last month was $285,000, down from $415,000 in the same month a year ago, according to La Jolla-based MDA DataQuick.
According to DataQuick, home sales in the six-county Southern California region in February jumped by 41.3 percent over the same month last year, while home prices dipped 38.7 percent to $250,000.
"The market is so tilted away from normal mainstream activity that it's impossible to generalize or predict based on the atypical patterns we're seeing," said john Walsh, MDA DataQuick president. "That means that normal demand and supply is building up. The floodgates could open once mortgage credit starts to open up."
A total of 15,231 new and resale homes sold in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, San Bernardino and Orange counties last month. That was virtually unchanged from 15,227 in January and up 41.3 percent from 10,777 in February 2008.
The median price of a Southern California home was $250,000 in February, the same as it was in January. The median price was down 38.7 percent from $408,000 in February 2008.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
New-Home Construction Rises in February
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 17, 2009
New-home construction rose 22.2 percent in February, compared to January, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 583,000 units.
Applications for building permits, which are considered a good measure of future building, rose 3 percent in February to an annual rate of 547,000.
Both increases surprised analysts who had predicted further downturns. Housing construction is still down 47.3 percent from a year ago.
However, builders remained pessimistic about their businesses. The National Association of Home Builders’ index of builder sentiment is at 9, one point above the all-time low reached in January. Numbers lower than 50 indicate a negative outlook about the market.
Source: The Associated Press, Jeannine Aversa (03/17/2009)
New-home construction rose 22.2 percent in February, compared to January, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 583,000 units.
Applications for building permits, which are considered a good measure of future building, rose 3 percent in February to an annual rate of 547,000.
Both increases surprised analysts who had predicted further downturns. Housing construction is still down 47.3 percent from a year ago.
However, builders remained pessimistic about their businesses. The National Association of Home Builders’ index of builder sentiment is at 9, one point above the all-time low reached in January. Numbers lower than 50 indicate a negative outlook about the market.
Source: The Associated Press, Jeannine Aversa (03/17/2009)
Monday, March 16, 2009
How Will Foreclosure Effect Credit Scores?
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 16, 2009
The amount of damage to a credit score caused by foreclosure, deed in lieu or a short sale during 2008 and 2009 may be mitigated by the slower economic times, say some credit and legal experts.
FICO may have to adjust its credit scores to lessen the impact of a foreclosure in the last two years, says Todd J. Zywicki, a professor of law at George Mason University.
''It just seems obvious that a foreclosure in 2008 or 2009 doesn't have as much information value as a foreclosure five years ago,'' he says. ''To the extent that foreclosure doesn't predict future behavior as much as it did in the past, you'd expect that the FICO algorithm would change to adjust for that.''
One of the country’s largest credit unions Golden 1 has already figured out a way to lend to people with a foreclosure on their record by offering a mortgage repair loan specifically for those who have lost a home to foreclosure and who want to buy a new one.
BECU, another large credit union based in Washington State, is about to present a program to fellow lenders, ''How to Lend to the Newly Credit Impaired.”
Source: The New York Times, Ron Lieber (03/14/2009)
The amount of damage to a credit score caused by foreclosure, deed in lieu or a short sale during 2008 and 2009 may be mitigated by the slower economic times, say some credit and legal experts.
FICO may have to adjust its credit scores to lessen the impact of a foreclosure in the last two years, says Todd J. Zywicki, a professor of law at George Mason University.
''It just seems obvious that a foreclosure in 2008 or 2009 doesn't have as much information value as a foreclosure five years ago,'' he says. ''To the extent that foreclosure doesn't predict future behavior as much as it did in the past, you'd expect that the FICO algorithm would change to adjust for that.''
One of the country’s largest credit unions Golden 1 has already figured out a way to lend to people with a foreclosure on their record by offering a mortgage repair loan specifically for those who have lost a home to foreclosure and who want to buy a new one.
BECU, another large credit union based in Washington State, is about to present a program to fellow lenders, ''How to Lend to the Newly Credit Impaired.”
Source: The New York Times, Ron Lieber (03/14/2009)
FHA Loans Become Popular Choice
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 16, 2009
Newly discovered FHA loans, which require low down payments but charge higher interest to borrowers with lower credit ratings, have quickly become a wildly popular choice for home buyers.
The loans require a down payment of only 3.5 percent, while conventional loans require down payments of 10 percent or higher.
However, the products also are drawing some unfavorable comparisons to now-abolished subprime loans.
Finance professionals, however, stress that unlike the infamous subprime mortgages of years past, FHA lenders go out of their way to verify income and ensure that they are not approving "liar loans."
Source: Palm Beach Post (Fla.), Jeff Ostrowski (03/16/09)
Newly discovered FHA loans, which require low down payments but charge higher interest to borrowers with lower credit ratings, have quickly become a wildly popular choice for home buyers.
The loans require a down payment of only 3.5 percent, while conventional loans require down payments of 10 percent or higher.
However, the products also are drawing some unfavorable comparisons to now-abolished subprime loans.
Finance professionals, however, stress that unlike the infamous subprime mortgages of years past, FHA lenders go out of their way to verify income and ensure that they are not approving "liar loans."
Source: Palm Beach Post (Fla.), Jeff Ostrowski (03/16/09)
Scammers Target Troubled Borrowers
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 16, 2009
Scam artists are proliferating, attempting to make money off troubled borrowers interested in taking advantage of President Barack Obama’s foreclosure-prevention plan.
The firms charge fees for what they tell borrowers will be quick and effective negotiations with banks. In most cases, the firms take the home owners’ money – often more than $1,000 – and do nothing.
The Federal Reserve recently issued this advice for people seeking to modify their mortgages:
* Work only with HUD-approved nonprofit counselors. (See www.hud.gov)
* Don't agree to pay a fee before you are provided with the promised service.
* Beware of people offering "guaranteed" results.
* Don't sign blank forms or documents you haven't read.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, James R. Hagerty (03/11/2009)
Scam artists are proliferating, attempting to make money off troubled borrowers interested in taking advantage of President Barack Obama’s foreclosure-prevention plan.
The firms charge fees for what they tell borrowers will be quick and effective negotiations with banks. In most cases, the firms take the home owners’ money – often more than $1,000 – and do nothing.
The Federal Reserve recently issued this advice for people seeking to modify their mortgages:
* Work only with HUD-approved nonprofit counselors. (See www.hud.gov)
* Don't agree to pay a fee before you are provided with the promised service.
* Beware of people offering "guaranteed" results.
* Don't sign blank forms or documents you haven't read.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, James R. Hagerty (03/11/2009)
Friday, March 13, 2009
Find FHA-Approved Condo Projects
The Condominiums page allows users to search for FHA-approved condominium projects by location, name, or status.
https://entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/condlook.cfm
https://entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/condlook.cfm
Pending Home Sales Down but Housing Affordability at Record
From Realtor.org
WASHINGTON, March 03, 2009
Pending home sales declined on the heels of a weakening economy and with some buyers waiting for clarity on housing stimulus provisions, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index,1 a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in January, fell 7.7 percent to 80.4 from a downwardly revised reading of 87.1 in December, and is 6.4 percent below January 2008 when it was 85.9. The index is at the lowest level since tracking began in 2001, when the index value was set at 100.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the downturn in the economy also weighed heavily on the data. “Even with many serious potential home buyers on the sidelines waiting for passage of the stimulus bill, job losses and weak consumer confidence were a natural drag on home sales,” he said. “We expect similarly soft home sales in the near term, but buyers are expected to respond to much improved affordability conditions and from the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit.”
The PHSI in the Northeast dropped 12.7 percent to 57.8 in January and is 19.7 percent below a year ago. In the Midwest the index declined 9.2 percent to 72.6 and is 13.8 percent below January 2008. The index in the South fell 11.9 percent to 82.2 in January and is 9.1 percent below a year ago. In the West the index rose 2.4 percent to 103.6 and is 13.5 percent higher than January 2008.
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, said it’s ironic with the weak housing market that affordability conditions have improved dramatically. “Housing affordability is at a record high – the buying power of a typical family has risen significantly,” he said. “With the drop in interest rates, a median-income family can afford a home costing $20,000 more than a year ago for the same monthly mortgage payment. With the strong housing stimulus, we are hopeful inventory will get trimmed and which will help prices stabilize in many areas by the end of this year.”
NAR’s Housing Affordability Index rose 13.6 percentage points in January to 166.8, a new record high.2 The HAI, a broad index of affordability using consistent values and assumptions over time, shows that the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income is the most favorable since tracking began in 1970.
The HAI indicates a median-income family, earning $59,800, could afford a home costing $283,400 in January with a 20 percent downpayment, assuming 25 percent of gross income is devoted to mortgage principal and interest; affordability conditions for first-time buyers with the same income and small downpayments are roughly 80 percent of that amount. A year ago, the typical family could afford a home costing $263,300.
Yun added, “Conditions have been aligning very favorably for home buyers with the exception of consumer confidence. But I am hopeful that sales will turn around by late spring and early summer because history suggests that home sales can rise even in times of job losses when housing affordability rises.”
# # #
1 The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.
The index is based on a large national sample, typically representing about 20 percent of transactions for existing-home sales. In developing the model for the index, it was demonstrated that the level of monthly sales-contract activity from 2001 through 2004 parallels the level of closed existing-home sales in the following two months. There is a closer relationship between annual index changes (from the same month a year earlier) and year-ago changes in sales performance than with month-to-month comparisons.
An index of 100 is equal to the average level of contract activity during 2001, which was the first year to be examined as well as the first of five consecutive record years for existing-home sales.
Each March, NAR Research conducts a review of PHSI seasonal adjustment factors and fine-tunes data for the past three years.
2 The Housing Affordability Index is a relative index where a value of 100 means that a family with the median income has exactly enough income to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced existing single-family home, taking into account the relationship between median home price, average effective interest rate for loans closed on existing homes, and median family income.
The higher the index, the better housing affordability is for buyers.
The calculation assumes a downpayment of 20 percent and a qualifying ratio of 25 percent of gross income for mortgage principle and interest payments. The index is a general gauge with conditions varying widely around the country. Affordability conditions are lower for first-time buyers with smaller downpayments and less income.
Monthly publication of the index began in 1981 with annual data calculated back to 1970.
Existing-home sales for February will be released March 23; the next Pending Home Sales Index will be on April 1.
WASHINGTON, March 03, 2009
Pending home sales declined on the heels of a weakening economy and with some buyers waiting for clarity on housing stimulus provisions, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
The Pending Home Sales Index,1 a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in January, fell 7.7 percent to 80.4 from a downwardly revised reading of 87.1 in December, and is 6.4 percent below January 2008 when it was 85.9. The index is at the lowest level since tracking began in 2001, when the index value was set at 100.
Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the downturn in the economy also weighed heavily on the data. “Even with many serious potential home buyers on the sidelines waiting for passage of the stimulus bill, job losses and weak consumer confidence were a natural drag on home sales,” he said. “We expect similarly soft home sales in the near term, but buyers are expected to respond to much improved affordability conditions and from the $8,000 first-time buyer tax credit.”
The PHSI in the Northeast dropped 12.7 percent to 57.8 in January and is 19.7 percent below a year ago. In the Midwest the index declined 9.2 percent to 72.6 and is 13.8 percent below January 2008. The index in the South fell 11.9 percent to 82.2 in January and is 9.1 percent below a year ago. In the West the index rose 2.4 percent to 103.6 and is 13.5 percent higher than January 2008.
NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, said it’s ironic with the weak housing market that affordability conditions have improved dramatically. “Housing affordability is at a record high – the buying power of a typical family has risen significantly,” he said. “With the drop in interest rates, a median-income family can afford a home costing $20,000 more than a year ago for the same monthly mortgage payment. With the strong housing stimulus, we are hopeful inventory will get trimmed and which will help prices stabilize in many areas by the end of this year.”
NAR’s Housing Affordability Index rose 13.6 percentage points in January to 166.8, a new record high.2 The HAI, a broad index of affordability using consistent values and assumptions over time, shows that the relationship between home prices, mortgage interest rates and family income is the most favorable since tracking began in 1970.
The HAI indicates a median-income family, earning $59,800, could afford a home costing $283,400 in January with a 20 percent downpayment, assuming 25 percent of gross income is devoted to mortgage principal and interest; affordability conditions for first-time buyers with the same income and small downpayments are roughly 80 percent of that amount. A year ago, the typical family could afford a home costing $263,300.
Yun added, “Conditions have been aligning very favorably for home buyers with the exception of consumer confidence. But I am hopeful that sales will turn around by late spring and early summer because history suggests that home sales can rise even in times of job losses when housing affordability rises.”
# # #
1 The Pending Home Sales Index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.
The index is based on a large national sample, typically representing about 20 percent of transactions for existing-home sales. In developing the model for the index, it was demonstrated that the level of monthly sales-contract activity from 2001 through 2004 parallels the level of closed existing-home sales in the following two months. There is a closer relationship between annual index changes (from the same month a year earlier) and year-ago changes in sales performance than with month-to-month comparisons.
An index of 100 is equal to the average level of contract activity during 2001, which was the first year to be examined as well as the first of five consecutive record years for existing-home sales.
Each March, NAR Research conducts a review of PHSI seasonal adjustment factors and fine-tunes data for the past three years.
2 The Housing Affordability Index is a relative index where a value of 100 means that a family with the median income has exactly enough income to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced existing single-family home, taking into account the relationship between median home price, average effective interest rate for loans closed on existing homes, and median family income.
The higher the index, the better housing affordability is for buyers.
The calculation assumes a downpayment of 20 percent and a qualifying ratio of 25 percent of gross income for mortgage principle and interest payments. The index is a general gauge with conditions varying widely around the country. Affordability conditions are lower for first-time buyers with smaller downpayments and less income.
Monthly publication of the index began in 1981 with annual data calculated back to 1970.
Existing-home sales for February will be released March 23; the next Pending Home Sales Index will be on April 1.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
No Job? Can’t Refinance? How to Talk to Your Bank.
As unemployment rises in many states, more homeowners are finding it difficult to pay their mortgage each month. Although most unemployed homeowners do not qualify for refinancing, as they do not meet the minimum qualifying requirements such as proof of income, there are steps they can take to improve their chances of a successful refinance.
MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY FOR CONSUMERS
· The first, and probably most important step in the refinance process, is to find out which company services the loan. The loan servicer may or not may not be the company where the mortgage payment is sent each month. This step is crucial, because the loan servicer is generally the one that can modify the loan. If the loan servicer is not able to provide assistance, the owner of the mortgage may be able to help.
· Once a homeowner realizes he or she may no longer be able to pay the mortgage, the homeowner should contact the “loss mitigation department” of the lender. The “loss mitigation department” is where the refinance and/or loan modification process begins.
· After discussing options with the loss mitigation department, homeowners should write a forbearance letter, also known as a postponement of payment letter. This letter is sent to the servicer or lender and details the homeowner’s current financial situation and hardship.
· Many government agencies and nonprofit organizations provide free services to homeowners and will serve as an intermediary between the lender/servicer and the homeowner. Some companies charge fees for the same services. Housing analysts caution homeowners to conduct research and due diligence prior to paying a company for loan modification and/or refinance assistance.
To read the full story, please click here
MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY FOR CONSUMERS
· The first, and probably most important step in the refinance process, is to find out which company services the loan. The loan servicer may or not may not be the company where the mortgage payment is sent each month. This step is crucial, because the loan servicer is generally the one that can modify the loan. If the loan servicer is not able to provide assistance, the owner of the mortgage may be able to help.
· Once a homeowner realizes he or she may no longer be able to pay the mortgage, the homeowner should contact the “loss mitigation department” of the lender. The “loss mitigation department” is where the refinance and/or loan modification process begins.
· After discussing options with the loss mitigation department, homeowners should write a forbearance letter, also known as a postponement of payment letter. This letter is sent to the servicer or lender and details the homeowner’s current financial situation and hardship.
· Many government agencies and nonprofit organizations provide free services to homeowners and will serve as an intermediary between the lender/servicer and the homeowner. Some companies charge fees for the same services. Housing analysts caution homeowners to conduct research and due diligence prior to paying a company for loan modification and/or refinance assistance.
To read the full story, please click here
Foreclosures, Especially in Sunbelt, Keep Climbing
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 12, 2009
The number of houses in some stage of foreclosure rose 30 percent in February compared to a year ago, and increased 6 percent from January 2009, according foreclosure marketer RealtyTrac.
Nationwide, a total of 290,631 properties were involved in a foreclosure filing, which is equivalent to one in every 440 U.S. housing units, RealtyTrac reported.
"The increase in foreclosure activity from January to February is somewhat surprising, given that many of the foreclosure prevention efforts and moratoria in place in January were extended through most of February as well," said James J. Saccacio, CEO of RealtyTrac.
Foreclosure rates were highest in Nevada, Arizona and California, followed by Florida, Idaho, Michigan, Illinois, Georgia, Oregon, and Ohio.
States with the highest number of homes in foreclosure were California, Florida and Arizona, followed by Nevada, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas, Georgia, and Virginia.
Sunbelt cities posted the top foreclosure numbers, led by Las Vegas where one in every 60 homes is in foreclosure, and Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Fla., with one in every 65 homes in foreclosure.
The rest of the top 10 were with one exception, all in California: Stockton (one in 67 housing units), Modesto (one in 68), Merced (one in 74), Riverside-San Bernardino (one in 80), Bakersfield (one in 85), Reno-Sparks, Nev. (one in 108), and Vallejo-Fairfield at No. 10 (one in 111).
Source: RealtyTrac (03/12/2009)
The number of houses in some stage of foreclosure rose 30 percent in February compared to a year ago, and increased 6 percent from January 2009, according foreclosure marketer RealtyTrac.
Nationwide, a total of 290,631 properties were involved in a foreclosure filing, which is equivalent to one in every 440 U.S. housing units, RealtyTrac reported.
"The increase in foreclosure activity from January to February is somewhat surprising, given that many of the foreclosure prevention efforts and moratoria in place in January were extended through most of February as well," said James J. Saccacio, CEO of RealtyTrac.
Foreclosure rates were highest in Nevada, Arizona and California, followed by Florida, Idaho, Michigan, Illinois, Georgia, Oregon, and Ohio.
States with the highest number of homes in foreclosure were California, Florida and Arizona, followed by Nevada, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Texas, Georgia, and Virginia.
Sunbelt cities posted the top foreclosure numbers, led by Las Vegas where one in every 60 homes is in foreclosure, and Cape Coral-Fort Myers, Fla., with one in every 65 homes in foreclosure.
The rest of the top 10 were with one exception, all in California: Stockton (one in 67 housing units), Modesto (one in 68), Merced (one in 74), Riverside-San Bernardino (one in 80), Bakersfield (one in 85), Reno-Sparks, Nev. (one in 108), and Vallejo-Fairfield at No. 10 (one in 111).
Source: RealtyTrac (03/12/2009)
Greenspan Says Fed Didn't Cause Housing Bubble
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 12, 2009
In a Wall Street Journal op-ed published Wednesday, former Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan defended his policies and said the Fed didn’t cause the housing bubble.
Greenspan said the Fed didn’t set the rates that really mattered—the rates on long-term, fixed-rate mortgages.
“No one, to my knowledge, employs overnight interest rates, such as the fed-funds rate, to determine the capitalization rate of real estate, whether it be an office building or a single-family residence,” Greenspan wrote.
Greenspan said the low interest rates were caused by growth in China and other emerging-market countries that led to relatively greater global savings rates compared to capital investment. This resulted in a decline of long-term interest rates and “is the most likely major cause of real-estate capitalization rates that declined and converged across the globe, resulting in the global housing price bubble,” he wrote.
He also outlined steps he believed should be taken to avoid another, similar financial system implosion. "Our challenge in the months ahead will be to install a regulatory regime that will ensure responsible risk management on the part of financial institutions, while encouraging them to continue taking the risks necessary and inherent in any successful market economy," Greenspan wrote.
Source: The Wall Street Journal (03/11/2009)
In a Wall Street Journal op-ed published Wednesday, former Federal Reserve Chair Alan Greenspan defended his policies and said the Fed didn’t cause the housing bubble.
Greenspan said the Fed didn’t set the rates that really mattered—the rates on long-term, fixed-rate mortgages.
“No one, to my knowledge, employs overnight interest rates, such as the fed-funds rate, to determine the capitalization rate of real estate, whether it be an office building or a single-family residence,” Greenspan wrote.
Greenspan said the low interest rates were caused by growth in China and other emerging-market countries that led to relatively greater global savings rates compared to capital investment. This resulted in a decline of long-term interest rates and “is the most likely major cause of real-estate capitalization rates that declined and converged across the globe, resulting in the global housing price bubble,” he wrote.
He also outlined steps he believed should be taken to avoid another, similar financial system implosion. "Our challenge in the months ahead will be to install a regulatory regime that will ensure responsible risk management on the part of financial institutions, while encouraging them to continue taking the risks necessary and inherent in any successful market economy," Greenspan wrote.
Source: The Wall Street Journal (03/11/2009)
Mortgage Investors Grumble Over Obama Plan
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 12, 2009
Investors in mortgages are squawking over President Barack Obama’s $75 billion plan to stabilize the housing market and reduce foreclosures.
They say elements of it are unfair to them and some are threatening suit. "Investors are given rights through the contracts in the securities, and we expect those rights to be honored," said Jeffrey Gundlach, chief investment officer of TCW Group Inc., which manages about $52 billion in residential mortgage-backed securities.
Investors are particularly critical of any effort that allows people who lied on their initial application to get help, and they dislike plans that rewrite first mortgages but leave second mortgages untouched. About half of delinquent subprime borrowers also have a second loan, according to Credit Suisse Group. They say reworking the first mortgage gives the holder of the second an unfair advantage since second mortgages are supposed to be junior to the first. Under the plan, critics, say, second mortgages may be repaid earlier.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, Ruth Simon (03/12/2009)
Investors in mortgages are squawking over President Barack Obama’s $75 billion plan to stabilize the housing market and reduce foreclosures.
They say elements of it are unfair to them and some are threatening suit. "Investors are given rights through the contracts in the securities, and we expect those rights to be honored," said Jeffrey Gundlach, chief investment officer of TCW Group Inc., which manages about $52 billion in residential mortgage-backed securities.
Investors are particularly critical of any effort that allows people who lied on their initial application to get help, and they dislike plans that rewrite first mortgages but leave second mortgages untouched. About half of delinquent subprime borrowers also have a second loan, according to Credit Suisse Group. They say reworking the first mortgage gives the holder of the second an unfair advantage since second mortgages are supposed to be junior to the first. Under the plan, critics, say, second mortgages may be repaid earlier.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, Ruth Simon (03/12/2009)
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Loan Apps Rise as Rates Dip Below 5 Percent
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 11, 2009
Average mortgage rates dipped below 5 percent last week, driving mortgage application volume up 11.3 percent to 723.4 from 649.7 the previous week on an adjusted basis, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association weekly survey.
On an unadjusted basis, the index increased 11.6 percent compared with the previous week and was up 5.7 percent compared with the same week a year ago.
The increase was reflected in the government purchase index (mostly FHA), which rose 10.4 percent. The overall purchase index was up 7.1 percent. The refinance share increased to 67.9 percent, up slightly from the previous week when it was at 66.9 percent.
Mortgage rates were down to the second-lowest rate in the history of the survey, with the record low being 4.89 percent for the week ending Jan. 9, 2009.
* 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.96 percent from 5.14 percent
* 15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.54 percent from 4.73 percent
* 1-year ARMs increased to 6.21 percent
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (03/11/2009)
Average mortgage rates dipped below 5 percent last week, driving mortgage application volume up 11.3 percent to 723.4 from 649.7 the previous week on an adjusted basis, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association weekly survey.
On an unadjusted basis, the index increased 11.6 percent compared with the previous week and was up 5.7 percent compared with the same week a year ago.
The increase was reflected in the government purchase index (mostly FHA), which rose 10.4 percent. The overall purchase index was up 7.1 percent. The refinance share increased to 67.9 percent, up slightly from the previous week when it was at 66.9 percent.
Mortgage rates were down to the second-lowest rate in the history of the survey, with the record low being 4.89 percent for the week ending Jan. 9, 2009.
* 30-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.96 percent from 5.14 percent
* 15-year fixed-rate mortgages decreased to 4.54 percent from 4.73 percent
* 1-year ARMs increased to 6.21 percent
Source: Mortgage Bankers Association (03/11/2009)
Monday, March 9, 2009
Californians Feel Left Out of Foreclosure Plan
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 9, 2009
The Obama administration’s plan to prevent foreclosures leaves many Californians out in the cold because it limits refinancing assistance to people who owe no more than 105 percent of what their homes are worth.
Many home owners in California owe far more than 105 percent on their homes, expert say.
California officials say the plan doesn’t help the people who need it most. More than 30 percent of home owners in San Bernardino and San Diego counties exceed that limit, while 29 percent in Los Angeles County are in that boat, according to researchers at the Columbia University business school real estate studies center.
Columbia professor of real estate Christopher Mayer says, "The 105 percent loan-to-value limit will really constrain the program in California, and is also unnecessary.”
California Assemblyman Ted Lieu praised the administration’s efforts but called on President Barack Obama to do more for California.
Source: The Los Angeles Times, E. Scott Reckard (03/07/2009)
The Obama administration’s plan to prevent foreclosures leaves many Californians out in the cold because it limits refinancing assistance to people who owe no more than 105 percent of what their homes are worth.
Many home owners in California owe far more than 105 percent on their homes, expert say.
California officials say the plan doesn’t help the people who need it most. More than 30 percent of home owners in San Bernardino and San Diego counties exceed that limit, while 29 percent in Los Angeles County are in that boat, according to researchers at the Columbia University business school real estate studies center.
Columbia professor of real estate Christopher Mayer says, "The 105 percent loan-to-value limit will really constrain the program in California, and is also unnecessary.”
California Assemblyman Ted Lieu praised the administration’s efforts but called on President Barack Obama to do more for California.
Source: The Los Angeles Times, E. Scott Reckard (03/07/2009)
ZIP Codes Where Housing Sales are Increasing
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 9, 2009
Housing sales are improving significantly in key ZIP codes around the country where prices have moderated, according to information compiled for BusinessWeek.com by First American CoreLogic.
ZIP codes in California, Florida, Arizona and Nevada dominated the list, but there were also ZIP codes on the top 25 most-improved sales list from the suburbs around Detroit and Minneapolis and in the metro areas of Atlanta and Chicago.
Inventories are shrinking and prices are stabilizing in several markets, according to the survey. Here are the top 10 ZIP codes with improved home sales:
* 94533, Fairfield, Calif. (Fresno)
* 92376, Rialto, Calif. (Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario)
* 91342, Slymar, Calif. (Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana)
* 92126, San Diego, Calif.
* 33914, Cape Coral, Fla. (Fort Meyers)
* 93065, Simi Valley, Calif. (Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura)
* 95123, San Jose, Calif.
* 85379, Surprise, Ariz. (Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale)
* 93722, Fresno, Calif. (Madera)
* 95624, Elks Grove, Calif. (Sacramento-Arden-Arcade-Roseville)
Source: BusinessWeek.com, Prashant Gopal (03/05/2009)
Housing sales are improving significantly in key ZIP codes around the country where prices have moderated, according to information compiled for BusinessWeek.com by First American CoreLogic.
ZIP codes in California, Florida, Arizona and Nevada dominated the list, but there were also ZIP codes on the top 25 most-improved sales list from the suburbs around Detroit and Minneapolis and in the metro areas of Atlanta and Chicago.
Inventories are shrinking and prices are stabilizing in several markets, according to the survey. Here are the top 10 ZIP codes with improved home sales:
* 94533, Fairfield, Calif. (Fresno)
* 92376, Rialto, Calif. (Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario)
* 91342, Slymar, Calif. (Los Angeles-Long Beach-Santa Ana)
* 92126, San Diego, Calif.
* 33914, Cape Coral, Fla. (Fort Meyers)
* 93065, Simi Valley, Calif. (Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura)
* 95123, San Jose, Calif.
* 85379, Surprise, Ariz. (Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale)
* 93722, Fresno, Calif. (Madera)
* 95624, Elks Grove, Calif. (Sacramento-Arden-Arcade-Roseville)
Source: BusinessWeek.com, Prashant Gopal (03/05/2009)
Friday, March 6, 2009
30-Year Rates Inch Up from Last Week
From Realtor Magazine Online, Daily Real Estate News March 6, 2009
Freddie Mac on Thursday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey, which shows the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 5.15 percent for the week ending March 5, with an average 0.7 point.
That’s up from last week when it averaged 5.07 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year fixed mortgage averaged 6.03 percent.
"Mortgage rates followed bond yields higher this week, following reports of record continuing jobless claims and a downward revision in economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2008," Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist, said in a statement. "Real Gross Domestic Product was revised from a 3.8 percent decline to a 6.2 percent drop in the fourth quarter mostly led by a 4.3 percent fall in consumer spending, which was the largest decrease since the second quarter of 1980.”
Nothaft said data shows the housing market continues to slow; new-home sales fell 10.2 percent in January to the slowest pace since records began in January 1963, while pending existing home sales slowed by 7.7 percent, the weakest since the series began in January 2001.
“More recently the Federal Reserve noted in its March 4th regional economic report that residential real estate markets remained in the doldrums in most areas, with only scattered, very tentative signs of stabilization," he said.
* The 15-year fixed mortgage this week averaged 4.72 percent with an average 0.7 point, up from last week when it averaged 4.68 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.47 percent.
* Five-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) averaged 5.08 percent this week, with an average 0.6 point, up from last week when it averaged 5.06 percent. A year ago, the 5-year ARM averaged 5.34 percent.
* One-year Treasury-indexed ARMs averaged 4.86 percent this week with an average 0.5 point, up from last week when it averaged 4.81 percent. At this time last year, the 1-year ARM averaged 4.94 percent.
Average commitment rates are reported along with average fees and points to reflect the total cost of obtaining the mortgage.
Source: Freddie Mac
Freddie Mac on Thursday released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey, which shows the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 5.15 percent for the week ending March 5, with an average 0.7 point.
That’s up from last week when it averaged 5.07 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year fixed mortgage averaged 6.03 percent.
"Mortgage rates followed bond yields higher this week, following reports of record continuing jobless claims and a downward revision in economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2008," Frank Nothaft, Freddie Mac vice president and chief economist, said in a statement. "Real Gross Domestic Product was revised from a 3.8 percent decline to a 6.2 percent drop in the fourth quarter mostly led by a 4.3 percent fall in consumer spending, which was the largest decrease since the second quarter of 1980.”
Nothaft said data shows the housing market continues to slow; new-home sales fell 10.2 percent in January to the slowest pace since records began in January 1963, while pending existing home sales slowed by 7.7 percent, the weakest since the series began in January 2001.
“More recently the Federal Reserve noted in its March 4th regional economic report that residential real estate markets remained in the doldrums in most areas, with only scattered, very tentative signs of stabilization," he said.
* The 15-year fixed mortgage this week averaged 4.72 percent with an average 0.7 point, up from last week when it averaged 4.68 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.47 percent.
* Five-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) averaged 5.08 percent this week, with an average 0.6 point, up from last week when it averaged 5.06 percent. A year ago, the 5-year ARM averaged 5.34 percent.
* One-year Treasury-indexed ARMs averaged 4.86 percent this week with an average 0.5 point, up from last week when it averaged 4.81 percent. At this time last year, the 1-year ARM averaged 4.94 percent.
Average commitment rates are reported along with average fees and points to reflect the total cost of obtaining the mortgage.
Source: Freddie Mac
Q&A: 90-DAY EXTENSION TO FORECLOSURE PROCESS
Q 83. What, in a nutshell, is the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A Under the new California Foreclosure Prevention Act, lenders foreclosing on certain loans are prohibited from giving a notice of sale until the lapse of at least 3 months plus 90 days after the filing of the notice of default (see Question 88). A loan servicer can obtain an exemption from this requirement by demonstrating that it has a comprehensive loan modification program (see Questions 89 to 94).
Q 84. What is the purpose of this law?
A The purpose of this law is to try to stem the tide of foreclosures and their adverse consequences by providing additional time for lenders to work out loan modifications with borrowers as well as creating an incentive for lenders to establish comprehensive loan modification programs.
Q 85. When will this law be in effect?
A This bill was enacted into law on February 20, 2009 along with the state budget. Its provisions take effect on or about March 16, 2009. More specifically, the law states that the appropriate commissioners must adopt regulations to carry out this law within 10 days of its enactment (see Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(d)), which would be by March 2, 2009. The law also states that it will become operative 14 days after the issuance of such regulations (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(d)), which would be on or about March 16, 2009. This law will stay in effect only until January 1, 2011 at which time it will be repealed, unless it is deleted or extended by statute (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(d)).
Q 86. How does this new law affect the foreclosure timeline?
A Under preexisting law, a lender who files a notice of default in the foreclosure process must wait at least 3 months before giving a notice of sale (Cal. Civil Code § 2924). The new law extends that 3-month period by an additional 90 days. Also under preexisting law, the general rule of thumb is that the entire foreclosure process takes a minimum of 4 months from the filing of a notice of default until the final trustee’s sale. Under the new law, that general rule of thumb is extended by 90 more days for a total of about 7 months, unless the lender is exempt. For more information about the foreclosure process, C.A.R. offers a legal article entitled Foreclosure Timeline.
Q 87. Under the new law, is the minimum time frame from the filing of a notice of default to the notice of sale a total of 6 months or 180 days?
A Neither. The way the law is written, the minimum time frame from the filing of the notice of default to the notice of sale is technically “3 months plus 90 days.”
Q 88. What type of loan falls under the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A Unless otherwise exempt, the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process applies to loans that meet all of the following requirements:
• The loan was recorded from January 1, 2003 to January 1, 2008, inclusive;
• The loan is secured by a first deed of trust for residential real property;
• The borrower occupied the property as a principal residence at the time the loan became delinquent; and
• A notice of default has been recorded on the property. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(a).)
Q 89. What are the exceptions to the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A Most notably, a loan servicer is exempt from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process if the loan servicer has obtained an order of exemption based on the implementation of a comprehensive loan modification program (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)) (see Questions 89 to 94). The order of exemption must be current and valid at the time the notice of sale is given (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(b)). Other exceptions to the 90-day extension include the following:
• Certain state or local public housing agency loans (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(c)).
• When a borrower has surrendered the property as evidenced by a letter confirming the surrender or delivery of the keys to the property to the lender or authorized agent (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.55(a)).
• When a borrower has contracted with any person or entity whose primary business is advising people who have decided to leave their homes on how to extend the foreclosure process and avoid their contractual obligations to the lenders (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.55(b)).
• When a borrower has filed a bankruptcy case and the court has not entered an order closing or dismissing the case or granting relief from a stay of foreclosure (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.55(c)).
Q 90. What constitutes a comprehensive loan modification program?
A A comprehensive loan modification program that may exempt the loan servicer from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process includes all of the following features:
• The loan modification program is intended to keep borrowers whose principal residences are located in California in those homes when the anticipated recovery under loan modification exceeds the anticipated recovery through foreclosure on a net present value basis (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)).
• It targets a 38 percent or less ratio of the borrower’s housing-related debt to the borrower’s gross income (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)). Housing-related debt is debt that includes loan principal, interest, property taxes, hazard insurance, flood insurance, mortgage insurance and homeowner association fees (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(k)(2)).
• It includes some combination of loan modifications terms as specified (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)) (see Question 91).
• The loan servicer seeks long-term sustainability for the borrower (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)).
Q 91. What are the loan modification terms that must be included in a comprehensive loan modification program?
A A comprehensive loan modification program that may qualify for exemption from the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days must include some combination of the following features:
• An interest rate reduction, as needed, for a fixed term of at least five years;
• An extension of the amortization period for the loan term to no more than 40 years from the original date of the loan;
• Deferral of some portion of the unpaid principal balance until loan maturity;
• Principal reduction;
• Compliance with a federally mandated loan modification program; or
• Other factors that the appropriate commissioner determines. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)(3).) See also Question 92.
Q 92. Does a loan servicer have to modify loans to get an exemption from the 90 day extension to the foreclosure process?
A No. A loan servicer is not required to modify a loan for a borrower who is not willing or able to pay under the modification. Furthermore, a loan servicer is not required to violate any contractor agreement for investor-owned loans. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(i).)
Q 93. How does a loan servicer obtain an order of exemption from the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A A loan servicer may apply to the appropriate commissioner (see Question 94) for an order exempting loans that it services from the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(1)). Upon receipt of an initial application for exemption, the commissioner must issue a temporary order exempting the mortgage loan servicer from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(2)). Within 30 days of receipt of the application, the commissioner must make a final determination by issuing a final order exempting the loan servicer or denying the application (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(3)). If the application is denied, the temporary order of exemption shall expire 30 days after the date of denial (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(1)).
Q 94. To which commissioner does a loan servicer apply for exemption?
A A lender or loan servicer would apply for an exemption to the following commissioner as appropriate:
• Commissioner of the Department of Financial Institutions for commercial and industrial banks, savings associations, and credit unions organized in California to service mortgage loans;
• Commissioner of the Department of Real Estate for licensed real estate brokers servicing mortgage loans; and
• Commissioner of the Department of Corporations for licensed residential mortgage lenders and servicers, licensed finance lenders and brokers, and any other entities servicing mortgage loans not regulated by the Department of Financial Institutions or Department of Real Estate. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(k)(1).)
Q 95. How does a homeowner ascertain whether his or her loan servicer is exempt from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process?
A The Secretary of Business, Transportation and Housing must maintain a publicly-available Internet website disclosing the final orders granting exemptions, the date of each order, and a link to Internet websites describing the loan modification programs (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(f)) (see also Question 96).
Q 96. Does a loan servicer have to inform the borrower as to whether the loan servicer is exempt from the longer foreclosure timeframe?
A Yes. A notice of sale must include a declaration from the loan servicer stating both of the following:
• Whether the loan servicer has obtained a final or temporary order of exemption from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; and
• Whether the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process under the new law does not apply.
The law requires the loan servicer’s declaration of exemption on the notice of sale, even though it may have been more helpful for the borrower if the declaration was on the notice of default. This requirement will stay in effect only until January 1, 2011 at which time it will be repealed, unless it is deleted or extended by statute. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.54.)
A Under the new California Foreclosure Prevention Act, lenders foreclosing on certain loans are prohibited from giving a notice of sale until the lapse of at least 3 months plus 90 days after the filing of the notice of default (see Question 88). A loan servicer can obtain an exemption from this requirement by demonstrating that it has a comprehensive loan modification program (see Questions 89 to 94).
Q 84. What is the purpose of this law?
A The purpose of this law is to try to stem the tide of foreclosures and their adverse consequences by providing additional time for lenders to work out loan modifications with borrowers as well as creating an incentive for lenders to establish comprehensive loan modification programs.
Q 85. When will this law be in effect?
A This bill was enacted into law on February 20, 2009 along with the state budget. Its provisions take effect on or about March 16, 2009. More specifically, the law states that the appropriate commissioners must adopt regulations to carry out this law within 10 days of its enactment (see Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(d)), which would be by March 2, 2009. The law also states that it will become operative 14 days after the issuance of such regulations (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(d)), which would be on or about March 16, 2009. This law will stay in effect only until January 1, 2011 at which time it will be repealed, unless it is deleted or extended by statute (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(d)).
Q 86. How does this new law affect the foreclosure timeline?
A Under preexisting law, a lender who files a notice of default in the foreclosure process must wait at least 3 months before giving a notice of sale (Cal. Civil Code § 2924). The new law extends that 3-month period by an additional 90 days. Also under preexisting law, the general rule of thumb is that the entire foreclosure process takes a minimum of 4 months from the filing of a notice of default until the final trustee’s sale. Under the new law, that general rule of thumb is extended by 90 more days for a total of about 7 months, unless the lender is exempt. For more information about the foreclosure process, C.A.R. offers a legal article entitled Foreclosure Timeline.
Q 87. Under the new law, is the minimum time frame from the filing of a notice of default to the notice of sale a total of 6 months or 180 days?
A Neither. The way the law is written, the minimum time frame from the filing of the notice of default to the notice of sale is technically “3 months plus 90 days.”
Q 88. What type of loan falls under the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A Unless otherwise exempt, the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process applies to loans that meet all of the following requirements:
• The loan was recorded from January 1, 2003 to January 1, 2008, inclusive;
• The loan is secured by a first deed of trust for residential real property;
• The borrower occupied the property as a principal residence at the time the loan became delinquent; and
• A notice of default has been recorded on the property. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(a).)
Q 89. What are the exceptions to the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A Most notably, a loan servicer is exempt from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process if the loan servicer has obtained an order of exemption based on the implementation of a comprehensive loan modification program (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)) (see Questions 89 to 94). The order of exemption must be current and valid at the time the notice of sale is given (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(b)). Other exceptions to the 90-day extension include the following:
• Certain state or local public housing agency loans (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(c)).
• When a borrower has surrendered the property as evidenced by a letter confirming the surrender or delivery of the keys to the property to the lender or authorized agent (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.55(a)).
• When a borrower has contracted with any person or entity whose primary business is advising people who have decided to leave their homes on how to extend the foreclosure process and avoid their contractual obligations to the lenders (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.55(b)).
• When a borrower has filed a bankruptcy case and the court has not entered an order closing or dismissing the case or granting relief from a stay of foreclosure (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.55(c)).
Q 90. What constitutes a comprehensive loan modification program?
A A comprehensive loan modification program that may exempt the loan servicer from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process includes all of the following features:
• The loan modification program is intended to keep borrowers whose principal residences are located in California in those homes when the anticipated recovery under loan modification exceeds the anticipated recovery through foreclosure on a net present value basis (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)).
• It targets a 38 percent or less ratio of the borrower’s housing-related debt to the borrower’s gross income (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)). Housing-related debt is debt that includes loan principal, interest, property taxes, hazard insurance, flood insurance, mortgage insurance and homeowner association fees (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(k)(2)).
• It includes some combination of loan modifications terms as specified (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)) (see Question 91).
• The loan servicer seeks long-term sustainability for the borrower (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)).
Q 91. What are the loan modification terms that must be included in a comprehensive loan modification program?
A A comprehensive loan modification program that may qualify for exemption from the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days must include some combination of the following features:
• An interest rate reduction, as needed, for a fixed term of at least five years;
• An extension of the amortization period for the loan term to no more than 40 years from the original date of the loan;
• Deferral of some portion of the unpaid principal balance until loan maturity;
• Principal reduction;
• Compliance with a federally mandated loan modification program; or
• Other factors that the appropriate commissioner determines. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(a)(3).) See also Question 92.
Q 92. Does a loan servicer have to modify loans to get an exemption from the 90 day extension to the foreclosure process?
A No. A loan servicer is not required to modify a loan for a borrower who is not willing or able to pay under the modification. Furthermore, a loan servicer is not required to violate any contractor agreement for investor-owned loans. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(i).)
Q 93. How does a loan servicer obtain an order of exemption from the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days?
A A loan servicer may apply to the appropriate commissioner (see Question 94) for an order exempting loans that it services from the new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(1)). Upon receipt of an initial application for exemption, the commissioner must issue a temporary order exempting the mortgage loan servicer from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(2)). Within 30 days of receipt of the application, the commissioner must make a final determination by issuing a final order exempting the loan servicer or denying the application (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(3)). If the application is denied, the temporary order of exemption shall expire 30 days after the date of denial (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(b)(1)).
Q 94. To which commissioner does a loan servicer apply for exemption?
A A lender or loan servicer would apply for an exemption to the following commissioner as appropriate:
• Commissioner of the Department of Financial Institutions for commercial and industrial banks, savings associations, and credit unions organized in California to service mortgage loans;
• Commissioner of the Department of Real Estate for licensed real estate brokers servicing mortgage loans; and
• Commissioner of the Department of Corporations for licensed residential mortgage lenders and servicers, licensed finance lenders and brokers, and any other entities servicing mortgage loans not regulated by the Department of Financial Institutions or Department of Real Estate. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.53(k)(1).)
Q 95. How does a homeowner ascertain whether his or her loan servicer is exempt from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process?
A The Secretary of Business, Transportation and Housing must maintain a publicly-available Internet website disclosing the final orders granting exemptions, the date of each order, and a link to Internet websites describing the loan modification programs (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.52(f)) (see also Question 96).
Q 96. Does a loan servicer have to inform the borrower as to whether the loan servicer is exempt from the longer foreclosure timeframe?
A Yes. A notice of sale must include a declaration from the loan servicer stating both of the following:
• Whether the loan servicer has obtained a final or temporary order of exemption from the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; and
• Whether the 90-day extension to the foreclosure process under the new law does not apply.
The law requires the loan servicer’s declaration of exemption on the notice of sale, even though it may have been more helpful for the borrower if the declaration was on the notice of default. This requirement will stay in effect only until January 1, 2011 at which time it will be repealed, unless it is deleted or extended by statute. (Cal. Civil Code § 2923.54.)
Q&A: NEW HOME TAX CREDIT
Q 60. What, in a nutshell, is the $10,000 new home tax credit?
A For the period from March 1, 2009 to February 28, 2010, inclusive, a taxpayer who purchases a qualified principal residence that has never been occupied may receive a tax credit of 5% of the purchase price or $10,000, whichever is less (see Questions 64 and 65). The total new home tax credit for all taxpayers is $100 million (see Questions 72 to 74).
Q 61. What is the purpose of this law?
A The purpose of the new home credit is to help boost the sale of new-home purchases to stimulate the housing market and construction industry.
Q 62. When is this law in effect?
A The law pertaining to the new home credit was enacted on February 20, 2009 and went into effect immediately. The law will be repealed on December 1, 2013 (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(h)). The time frame, however, for a buyer to purchase a qualified principal residence to receive the new home credit is March 1, 2009 to February 28, 2010, inclusive (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)).
Q 63. What is a tax credit?
A For general information about a tax credit, see Question 3.
Q 64. What constitutes a “qualified principal residence” under the new home credit?
A A qualified principal residence is a property purchased between March 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010, inclusive, that meets the following requirements:
• It is a single-family residence (attached or detached);
• It has never been occupied (see Question 71);
• It is purchased to be the principal residence of the taxpayer for at least two years immediately following the purchase date (see Question 81); and
• It is eligible for the homeowner’s exemption under section 218 of the California Taxation and Revenue Code.
(Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(1) and (3).)
Q 65. How is the new home credit calculated?
A The new home credit is 5% of the purchase price or $10,000, whichever is less (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)). For new homes purchased for $200,000 or more, the new home credit will be capped off at $10,000.
The new home credit shall be applied in equal amounts over the three successive taxable years starting with the taxable year of purchase (2009 or 2010) (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)). A taxpayer’s maximum credit per year is $3,333.
The new home credit shall be allowed as a credit against the net tax as defined in section 17039 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)). The new home credit cannot reduce regular tax below the tentative minimum tax (TMT). If the available credit exceeds the current year net tax, the unused credit cannot be carried over to the following year. The credit is non-refundable (see Question 4 for explanation of a refundable tax credit).
Q 66. Is there an income restriction to be eligible for the new home credit?
A No. The new home credit is available to qualified buyers regardless of income.
Q 67. Is a taxpayer who receives an $8,000 federal tax credit as a first-time homebuyer also eligible for the $10,000 new home credit under California law?
A Yes. A first-time homebuyer as defined can potentially qualify for both the $8,000 tax credit under federal law (see Question 1) as well as the $10,000 new home credit under California law.
Q 68. What is the “purchase date” for purposes of the new home credit?
A According to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the “purchase date” is the date escrow closes. As an example, if a taxpayer enters into a contract to buy a qualified principal residence on February 25, 2010, but does not close escrow until April 10, 2010, the taxpayer will not qualify for the new home credit because, as the law is currently written, the new home credit expires on February 28, 2010.
Q 69. What is the new home credit if a married couple buys a qualified principal residence?
A The new home credit for a married couple or registered domestic partners is the same as for individual taxpayers or the lesser of 5% of the purchase price or $10,000. If two taxpayers are married or registered domestic partners, but filing separate tax returns, the new home credit must be equally apportioned between the two of them even if their ownership percentages are not equal (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(c)(1)).
Q 70. What is the new home credit if two or more people who are not married to each other buy a home together?
A The new home credit is 5% of the purchase price or $10,000, whichever is less, even if more than one taxpayer purchases a qualified principal residence. The new home credit shall be allocated among the co-owners in the same manner as each taxpayer’s percentage of ownership. The total amount of credits for all co-owners cannot exceed $10,000. (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(c)(2).)
Q 71. How does a taxpayer demonstrate to the Franchise Tax Board that a property has not been previously occupied?
A No credit shall be allowed unless the taxpayer’s tax return includes a certification by the seller that the property has never been previously occupied (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(2)). This seller’s certification must be provided by the seller to the taxpayer and the FTB within one week of the sale of the qualified principal residence (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 10759(b)(2)) (see Question 75). One week is seven calendar days.
Q 72. What is the $100 million dollar limit to the new home credit?
A The total amount of new home credit for all taxpayers combined is $100 million (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(d)). The FTB will allocate the credit to taxpayers on a first-come, first-served basis (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(1)) (see Questions 73 and 74). Once $100 million has been allocated, the new home credit will no longer be available. To check on the remaining credit available, go to the FTB website at http://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/New_Home_Credit.shtml.
Q 73. What is the authority of the Franchise Tax Board to allocate the new home credit?
A The law authorizes the FTB to allocate the new home credit to taxpayers on a first-come first-served basis based upon its receipt of a seller’s certification that the home has never been previously occupied (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(1)) (see Question 74). The law also authorizes the FTB to determine the date a seller’s certification is received (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(3)). The FTB’s determination of the date and whether a return has been timely filed for purposes of this law is final in that it cannot be reviewed in any administrative or judicial proceeding (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(4)(A)).
Q 74. How is the Franchise Tax Board going to allocate the $100 million in new home credit?
A The FTB requires that the seller and buyer complete FTB Form 3582 A, Application for New Home Credit, and that the escrow company delivers the completed form to the FTB by fax at (916) 845-9754. Fax is the only delivery method that will be accepted for consideration for the new home credit because the date and time stamp on the fax will determine the order in which the new home credit is allocated.
Q 75. What is the procedure for completing and submitting Form FTB 3528 A, Application for New Home Credit?
A The procedure for completing and submitting Form FTB 3528-A, Application for New Home Credit, to apply for the new home credit is as follows:
• Part I – Seller’s Certification: Within one week (7 calendar days) after close of escrow, the seller must complete this section to certify that the home has never been occupied, and provide a copy of the form to the buyer.
• Part II and III – Escrow and Qualified Buyer’s Information: The buyer must complete these two sections and submit the form to escrow.
• Fax Transmission: Within one week (7 calendar days) after close of escrow, the escrow person acting on behalf of the seller and buyer must fax the completed Form FTB 3528 A to the FTB at (916) 845 9754 and provide a copy to the buyer.
Q 76. What are the FTB’s instructions for faxing Form FTB 3528-A, Application of New Home Credit?
A The FTB has provided the following instructions for faxing FTB 3528-A, Application of New Home Credit to (916) 845 9754:
• Fax only one completed application per residence with all qualified buyers listed. Do not include information on nonqualified buyers. An incomplete application may delay or prevent credit allocation.
• Do not fax the application to the FTB before escrow closes.
• Do not fax the application to the FTB more than once.
• Do not fax to any other FTB fax number.
• Escrow should send only one application per fax transmission.
• Applications will be processed in the order received.
Once $100 million in new home credit has been allocated, the FTB will post a notice on its website as well as disconnect the (916) 845 9754 fax number.
Q 77. Can the Form FTB 3528-A, Application for New Home Credit, be mailed to the Franchise Tax Board?
A No. The application should not be mailed to the FTB. Fax is the only acceptable delivery method. The FTB intends to use the date and time stamp on the fax to determine the first-come, first-served order for allocating the $100 million in new home credit to taxpayers.
Q 78. Will a buyer receive a notification of credit allocation from the Franchise Tax Board?
A Yes. The FTB will provide the buyer with confirmation certifying the allocation of tax credit. An allocation of credit, however, may not be issued under any of the following circumstances:
• The home has been previously occupied.
• The application is not received within one week after close of escrow.
• The application is received after the $100 million total credits available have already been allocated to other people.
The FTB may request other documentation to ensure buyers have complied with the requirements of the new home credit.
Q 79. How does a taxpayer claim the new home credit?
A A taxpayer shall claim the credit on timely filed original tax returns, including returns filed on extension (see Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(2)). No credit shall be allowed unless the taxpayer’s tax return includes a certification by the seller that the property has never been previously occupied (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(2)).
Furthermore, according to the FTB, the buyer must receive an allocation of credit from the FTB to claim the credit. The credit allocation letter will state the amount the buyer can claim listed by tax year.
FTB will issue Publication 3528 for instructions on claiming the new home credit (to be published by December 2009).
Q 80. What happens if a taxpayer claims the new home credit on his or her tax returns not realizing that $100 million dollar has already been allocated?
A If a credit is disallowed because, among other things, the $100 million limit has been met, the FTB will treat the tax return as containing a mathematical error and assess the appropriate tax if any (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(4)(B)).
Q 81. What happens if a taxpayer fails to occupy the property as a principal residence for two years after purchase?
A If a taxpayer fails to occupy the property for at least two years immediately following the purchase, the credit shall be cancelled and the taxpayer must repay any credit allowed on previous tax returns (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(3)).
Q 82. Where can I get more information about the new home tax credit?
A This law pertaining to the new home tax credit is set forth at section 17059 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code. The full text of this law is available at the California Legislative Counsel website at www.leginfo.ca.gov.
The Franchise Tax Board may prescribe rules, guidelines to carry out the purposes of this law (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(f)). It provides additional information on its website at www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/New_Home_Credit.shtml. Instructions are also available on the “Instructions for 3528 A” attached to Form FTB 3528 A, Application for New Home Credit. The FTB will also issue a Publication 3528 for instructions on claiming the new home credit (to be published by December 2009).
A For the period from March 1, 2009 to February 28, 2010, inclusive, a taxpayer who purchases a qualified principal residence that has never been occupied may receive a tax credit of 5% of the purchase price or $10,000, whichever is less (see Questions 64 and 65). The total new home tax credit for all taxpayers is $100 million (see Questions 72 to 74).
Q 61. What is the purpose of this law?
A The purpose of the new home credit is to help boost the sale of new-home purchases to stimulate the housing market and construction industry.
Q 62. When is this law in effect?
A The law pertaining to the new home credit was enacted on February 20, 2009 and went into effect immediately. The law will be repealed on December 1, 2013 (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(h)). The time frame, however, for a buyer to purchase a qualified principal residence to receive the new home credit is March 1, 2009 to February 28, 2010, inclusive (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)).
Q 63. What is a tax credit?
A For general information about a tax credit, see Question 3.
Q 64. What constitutes a “qualified principal residence” under the new home credit?
A A qualified principal residence is a property purchased between March 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010, inclusive, that meets the following requirements:
• It is a single-family residence (attached or detached);
• It has never been occupied (see Question 71);
• It is purchased to be the principal residence of the taxpayer for at least two years immediately following the purchase date (see Question 81); and
• It is eligible for the homeowner’s exemption under section 218 of the California Taxation and Revenue Code.
(Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(1) and (3).)
Q 65. How is the new home credit calculated?
A The new home credit is 5% of the purchase price or $10,000, whichever is less (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)). For new homes purchased for $200,000 or more, the new home credit will be capped off at $10,000.
The new home credit shall be applied in equal amounts over the three successive taxable years starting with the taxable year of purchase (2009 or 2010) (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)). A taxpayer’s maximum credit per year is $3,333.
The new home credit shall be allowed as a credit against the net tax as defined in section 17039 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(a)(1)). The new home credit cannot reduce regular tax below the tentative minimum tax (TMT). If the available credit exceeds the current year net tax, the unused credit cannot be carried over to the following year. The credit is non-refundable (see Question 4 for explanation of a refundable tax credit).
Q 66. Is there an income restriction to be eligible for the new home credit?
A No. The new home credit is available to qualified buyers regardless of income.
Q 67. Is a taxpayer who receives an $8,000 federal tax credit as a first-time homebuyer also eligible for the $10,000 new home credit under California law?
A Yes. A first-time homebuyer as defined can potentially qualify for both the $8,000 tax credit under federal law (see Question 1) as well as the $10,000 new home credit under California law.
Q 68. What is the “purchase date” for purposes of the new home credit?
A According to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the “purchase date” is the date escrow closes. As an example, if a taxpayer enters into a contract to buy a qualified principal residence on February 25, 2010, but does not close escrow until April 10, 2010, the taxpayer will not qualify for the new home credit because, as the law is currently written, the new home credit expires on February 28, 2010.
Q 69. What is the new home credit if a married couple buys a qualified principal residence?
A The new home credit for a married couple or registered domestic partners is the same as for individual taxpayers or the lesser of 5% of the purchase price or $10,000. If two taxpayers are married or registered domestic partners, but filing separate tax returns, the new home credit must be equally apportioned between the two of them even if their ownership percentages are not equal (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(c)(1)).
Q 70. What is the new home credit if two or more people who are not married to each other buy a home together?
A The new home credit is 5% of the purchase price or $10,000, whichever is less, even if more than one taxpayer purchases a qualified principal residence. The new home credit shall be allocated among the co-owners in the same manner as each taxpayer’s percentage of ownership. The total amount of credits for all co-owners cannot exceed $10,000. (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(c)(2).)
Q 71. How does a taxpayer demonstrate to the Franchise Tax Board that a property has not been previously occupied?
A No credit shall be allowed unless the taxpayer’s tax return includes a certification by the seller that the property has never been previously occupied (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(2)). This seller’s certification must be provided by the seller to the taxpayer and the FTB within one week of the sale of the qualified principal residence (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 10759(b)(2)) (see Question 75). One week is seven calendar days.
Q 72. What is the $100 million dollar limit to the new home credit?
A The total amount of new home credit for all taxpayers combined is $100 million (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(d)). The FTB will allocate the credit to taxpayers on a first-come, first-served basis (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(1)) (see Questions 73 and 74). Once $100 million has been allocated, the new home credit will no longer be available. To check on the remaining credit available, go to the FTB website at http://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/New_Home_Credit.shtml.
Q 73. What is the authority of the Franchise Tax Board to allocate the new home credit?
A The law authorizes the FTB to allocate the new home credit to taxpayers on a first-come first-served basis based upon its receipt of a seller’s certification that the home has never been previously occupied (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(1)) (see Question 74). The law also authorizes the FTB to determine the date a seller’s certification is received (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(3)). The FTB’s determination of the date and whether a return has been timely filed for purposes of this law is final in that it cannot be reviewed in any administrative or judicial proceeding (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(4)(A)).
Q 74. How is the Franchise Tax Board going to allocate the $100 million in new home credit?
A The FTB requires that the seller and buyer complete FTB Form 3582 A, Application for New Home Credit, and that the escrow company delivers the completed form to the FTB by fax at (916) 845-9754. Fax is the only delivery method that will be accepted for consideration for the new home credit because the date and time stamp on the fax will determine the order in which the new home credit is allocated.
Q 75. What is the procedure for completing and submitting Form FTB 3528 A, Application for New Home Credit?
A The procedure for completing and submitting Form FTB 3528-A, Application for New Home Credit, to apply for the new home credit is as follows:
• Part I – Seller’s Certification: Within one week (7 calendar days) after close of escrow, the seller must complete this section to certify that the home has never been occupied, and provide a copy of the form to the buyer.
• Part II and III – Escrow and Qualified Buyer’s Information: The buyer must complete these two sections and submit the form to escrow.
• Fax Transmission: Within one week (7 calendar days) after close of escrow, the escrow person acting on behalf of the seller and buyer must fax the completed Form FTB 3528 A to the FTB at (916) 845 9754 and provide a copy to the buyer.
Q 76. What are the FTB’s instructions for faxing Form FTB 3528-A, Application of New Home Credit?
A The FTB has provided the following instructions for faxing FTB 3528-A, Application of New Home Credit to (916) 845 9754:
• Fax only one completed application per residence with all qualified buyers listed. Do not include information on nonqualified buyers. An incomplete application may delay or prevent credit allocation.
• Do not fax the application to the FTB before escrow closes.
• Do not fax the application to the FTB more than once.
• Do not fax to any other FTB fax number.
• Escrow should send only one application per fax transmission.
• Applications will be processed in the order received.
Once $100 million in new home credit has been allocated, the FTB will post a notice on its website as well as disconnect the (916) 845 9754 fax number.
Q 77. Can the Form FTB 3528-A, Application for New Home Credit, be mailed to the Franchise Tax Board?
A No. The application should not be mailed to the FTB. Fax is the only acceptable delivery method. The FTB intends to use the date and time stamp on the fax to determine the first-come, first-served order for allocating the $100 million in new home credit to taxpayers.
Q 78. Will a buyer receive a notification of credit allocation from the Franchise Tax Board?
A Yes. The FTB will provide the buyer with confirmation certifying the allocation of tax credit. An allocation of credit, however, may not be issued under any of the following circumstances:
• The home has been previously occupied.
• The application is not received within one week after close of escrow.
• The application is received after the $100 million total credits available have already been allocated to other people.
The FTB may request other documentation to ensure buyers have complied with the requirements of the new home credit.
Q 79. How does a taxpayer claim the new home credit?
A A taxpayer shall claim the credit on timely filed original tax returns, including returns filed on extension (see Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(2)). No credit shall be allowed unless the taxpayer’s tax return includes a certification by the seller that the property has never been previously occupied (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(2)).
Furthermore, according to the FTB, the buyer must receive an allocation of credit from the FTB to claim the credit. The credit allocation letter will state the amount the buyer can claim listed by tax year.
FTB will issue Publication 3528 for instructions on claiming the new home credit (to be published by December 2009).
Q 80. What happens if a taxpayer claims the new home credit on his or her tax returns not realizing that $100 million dollar has already been allocated?
A If a credit is disallowed because, among other things, the $100 million limit has been met, the FTB will treat the tax return as containing a mathematical error and assess the appropriate tax if any (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(e)(4)(B)).
Q 81. What happens if a taxpayer fails to occupy the property as a principal residence for two years after purchase?
A If a taxpayer fails to occupy the property for at least two years immediately following the purchase, the credit shall be cancelled and the taxpayer must repay any credit allowed on previous tax returns (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(b)(3)).
Q 82. Where can I get more information about the new home tax credit?
A This law pertaining to the new home tax credit is set forth at section 17059 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code. The full text of this law is available at the California Legislative Counsel website at www.leginfo.ca.gov.
The Franchise Tax Board may prescribe rules, guidelines to carry out the purposes of this law (Cal. Rev. & Tax Code § 17059(f)). It provides additional information on its website at www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/New_Home_Credit.shtml. Instructions are also available on the “Instructions for 3528 A” attached to Form FTB 3528 A, Application for New Home Credit. The FTB will also issue a Publication 3528 for instructions on claiming the new home credit (to be published by December 2009).
CALIFORNIA’S 2009-2010 STATE BUDGET
After many months of delay, California’s lawmakers passed a 2009-2010 state budget into law on February 20, 2009. To help solve California’s $42 billion deficit, the new state budget calls for $12.5 billion in tax hikes, including a one percent increase in sales tax, a 0.25% increase in income tax, and a 0.50% increase in vehicle license fees. On the spending side, the state budget has provisions to create jobs, improve the California business climate, and stimulate the economy.
As for housing stimulus provisions, the state budget has a $10,000 tax credit to help encourage the purchase of new homes that have not been previously occupied (see Questions 60 to 82). Also included in the state budget is a new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days for lenders without comprehensive loan modification programs (see Questions 83 to 98).
As for housing stimulus provisions, the state budget has a $10,000 tax credit to help encourage the purchase of new homes that have not been previously occupied (see Questions 60 to 82). Also included in the state budget is a new law extending the foreclosure process by 90 days for lenders without comprehensive loan modification programs (see Questions 83 to 98).
Q&A: KEEPING MORTGAGE RATES LOW
Q 59. How will the Making Home Affordable program keep mortgage rates low?
A The Making Home Affordable Program will ensure low mortgage rates by infusing into Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac an additional $100 billion each in the form of Preferred Stock Purchas Agreements. The $200 billion in funding commitments are being made under the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.
The U.S. Treasury Department will also purchase Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage-backed securities to promote stability and liquidity in the mortgage market. The Treasury will also increase the allowable mortgage portfolio retained by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac by $50 billion to a total of $900 billion.
A The Making Home Affordable Program will ensure low mortgage rates by infusing into Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac an additional $100 billion each in the form of Preferred Stock Purchas Agreements. The $200 billion in funding commitments are being made under the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.
The U.S. Treasury Department will also purchase Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage-backed securities to promote stability and liquidity in the mortgage market. The Treasury will also increase the allowable mortgage portfolio retained by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac by $50 billion to a total of $900 billion.
Q&A: HOME AFFORDABLE MODIFICATION PROGRAM
Q 41. What is a Home Affordable Modification?
A The Home Affordable Modification is a component of the Making Home Affordable Program of the Obama Administration. This $75 billion program aims to help 3 to 4 million homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure modify their loans. It provides financial incentives for both lenders and borrower to modify existing first trust deeds. $50 billion for the program will come from the remaining $350 billion in Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) funds and the remaining $25 billion will come from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Q 42. How does a Home Affordable Modification work?
A The Home Affordable Modification program is a government subsidy for loan modifications. First, a participating lender must voluntarily agree to modify the loan terms for a first trust deed so that the borrower’s monthly mortgage payment does not exceed 38 percent of his or her income. Next, the federal government will match what the lender did dollar-for-dollar to reduce the debt-to-income ratio down to 31 percent.
The borrower will be put on a trial modification at the new payment and terms for three months. If a borrower is current at the end of the trial modification period, the loan servicer will execute a modification agreement, including an impound account for taxes and insurance
As an example, assume a borrower pays 45% of her monthly income for her mortgage payment on a $220,000 loan. If her lender voluntarily agrees to reduce her mortgage payment down to 38% of her income, the federal government will match that, dollar-for-dollar, to bring her debt-to-income ratio further down to 31%. The loan modification could save the borrower over $400 per month on her mortgage payments.
Q 43. What is the purpose of the Home Affordable Modification program?
A The purpose of the Home Affordable Modification program is to prevent foreclosures by making mortgage payments more affordable for working homeowners who are struggling to keep their homes. The program is not intended to replace lost equity. However, if the program prevents avoidable foreclosures, it will stabilize property values which will benefit all homeowners.
Q 44. When does the Home Affordable Modification program take effect?
A The intent is for Home Affordable Modifications to begin immediately. However, the contracts that the Treasury Department will require participating loan servicers to enter into are not expected to be available until April 2009. Once contracts with servicers and investors are signed, a list of participating lenders will be made available to the public at http://www.financialstability.gov/.
Q 45. What are the eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Modification?
A The eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Modification are as follows:
• Borrower occupies the property as a primary residence;
• Property is one-to-four units;
• Loan to be modified is a first trust deed;
• Borrower’s monthly mortgage payment (including taxes, insurance, and homeowners association dues) exceeds 31% of the borrower’s gross monthly income;
• Borrower has experienced a significant change in income or expense to the point that the current mortgage payment is no longer affordable;
• Unpaid principal balance is $729,750 or less (for one unit properties and higher for two-to-four units); and
• Loan was originated before January 1, 2009.
In addition to the above, a borrower with a “back end” debt (i.e. monthly housing, credit card, and car payments) of 55% or more of his or her income will be required, as a condition for the modification, to enter into a HUD-certified consumer debt counseling program.
Q 46. How will a participating lender reduce a borrower’s monthly payments?
A A participating lender may elect to reduce the interest rate on a loan down to a 2% minimum. If the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio is still above 31%, the next step for the lender is to increase the amortization period up to 40 years. If the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio is still more than 31% then the lender must forbear (defer) principal.
A lender may always elect to forgive principal rather than lower the interest rate, extend the amortization, or forbear on the principal balance. However, loan servicers are not required to offer permanent principal reductions.
If a lender reduces the interest rate under the Home Affordable Modification program, the interest rate must be a minimum of 2% and fixed for five years, after which the lender could gradually raise the interest rate no more than one percentage point per year until the note rate reaches the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey rate on the date the loan modification was executed. If the modified rate is higher than the Survey rate, the interest rate for the remaining loan term will be the modified rate.
Q 47. How does a forbearance of principal work under a Home Affordable Modification?
A If a participating lender agrees to forbear (defer) principal, the deferred principal will be owed when the house is sold or refinanced or the loan is otherwise paid off. The amount of the deferred principal will be a balloon payment, but it will not accrue interest. If the lender extends the amortization period without extending the loan term, the balloon payment may be even bigger.
Q 48. How do homeowners determine whether they qualify for a Home Affordable Modification?
A A self-assessment tool is available for homeowners to determine whether they are eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance or Modification at http://www.financialstability.gov/makinghomeaffordable/.
Q 49. Are loans other than Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans eligible for a Home Affordable Modification?
A Yes. Most conventional loans including prime, subprime, adjustable, loans owned by lenders, and loans in securities, are eligible for a Home Affordable Modification. FHA and VA loans are not eligible for a Home Affordable Modification, but these agencies may offer other modification programs to help borrowers stay in their homes.
Q 50. Does a Home Affordable Modification cost anything for the borrower?
A No. The borrower incurs no modification fee or charge for a Home Affordable Modification.
Q 51. Does a borrower have to be delinquent on his or her mortgage payments to qualify for a Home Affordable Modification?
A No. Borrowers who are delinquent or simply struggling to remain current on their mortgage payments may qualify for a Home Affordable Modification if they are at risk of imminent default. As an example, a couple may qualify because they have had or will soon have a significant increase in their mortgage payment that they cannot afford.
Q 52. Is a borrower with both a first and second trust deed eligible for a Home Affordable Modification?
A Yes. A borrower with both a first and second trust deed can still apply for a Home Affordable Modification, but only the first trust deed will be modified. The second trust deed lender will be required to subordinate to the modified loan. The Home Affordable Modification program provides an incentive payment of up to $1,000 to pay off junior lien holders.
Q 53. Is a borrower eligible for a Home Affordable Modification if he or she is currently upside down on the property (i.e. owes more on the mortgage loan than the property is worth)?
A Yes, but a lender under this program is not required to reduce the principal balance.
Q 54. Is a lender required to modify a loan under the Home Affordable Modification program?
A No, in most cases. A mortgage lender may generally choose whether to participate in the Home Affordable Modification program. However, participation in the program is mandatory for any institution that accepts future funding from the Treasury’s Financial Stability Program.
Once a lender participates in the program, it must screen any borrower who contacts the servicer and meet the minimum eligibility criteria to determine if he or she is at risk of imminent default. During this screening, the loan servicer must ascertain whether a borrower has had a change in circumstances that causes financial hardship or is facing a recent or imminent increase in the payment that is likely to create a financial hardship (payment shock). All loans that meet eligibility requirements must be modified, unless there is fraud or modification is prohibited by the loan servicing agreement.
Q 55. Are mortgage insurance companies required to participate in the Home Affordable Modification program?
A No. However, the major mortgage insurance firms have agreed to help prevent foreclosures by developing a procedure for them to make partial claims on modified loans where appropriate.
Q 56. What are the monetary incentives for a Home Affordable Modification?
A Monetary incentives will be given to loan servicers, lenders, and borrowers under the Home Affordable Modification program. Loan servicers will receive $1,000 as an upfront fee for every eligible modification. They also will receive up to $1,000 per year for three years as a “pay for success fee” awarded monthly if the borrower stays current on the loan. They will also receive $500 and the mortgage holders will receive $1,500 if they modify an at-risk loan before the borrower becomes delinquent. The loan servicer is also eligible to receive $500 for efforts made to extinguish second liens on loans modified and an extra $250 for obtaining a release of a valid second lien.
The Home Affordable Modification program also has monetary incentives for borrowers. After a 90-day trial period, borrowers with modified loans will receive $1,000 per year for five years as success incentives to stay current on their mortgage loan. This incentive will be provided to a borrower in the form of a monthly reduction in the principal balance owed.
Q 57. Are monetary incentives available for short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure?
A Yes. Participating loan servicers will receive incentives to take alternatives to foreclosure, like short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosure. Loan servicers will be eligible for a $500 incentive and can make reimbursable payments up to $1,000 to extinguish other liens. Borrowers are eligible for a payment of $1,500 in relocation expenses if they effectuate short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure. These incentives for short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure are available to encourage families and loan servicers to avoid the costly foreclosure process and minimize the damage that foreclosure inflicts on lenders, borrowers, and communities.
Q 58. What is the Home Price Decline Reserve Fund?
A Under the Home Affordable Modification Program, the U.S. Treasury Department will establish a $10 billion reserve fund to encourage lenders to modify loans. In a down market, lenders may opt to foreclose rather than restructure a loan when they fear that home values will fall later on. This insurance fund will encourage a lender to modify the loan instead by making an insurance payment to the lender in cash for any decline in a home price index for each modified loan.
A The Home Affordable Modification is a component of the Making Home Affordable Program of the Obama Administration. This $75 billion program aims to help 3 to 4 million homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure modify their loans. It provides financial incentives for both lenders and borrower to modify existing first trust deeds. $50 billion for the program will come from the remaining $350 billion in Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) funds and the remaining $25 billion will come from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Q 42. How does a Home Affordable Modification work?
A The Home Affordable Modification program is a government subsidy for loan modifications. First, a participating lender must voluntarily agree to modify the loan terms for a first trust deed so that the borrower’s monthly mortgage payment does not exceed 38 percent of his or her income. Next, the federal government will match what the lender did dollar-for-dollar to reduce the debt-to-income ratio down to 31 percent.
The borrower will be put on a trial modification at the new payment and terms for three months. If a borrower is current at the end of the trial modification period, the loan servicer will execute a modification agreement, including an impound account for taxes and insurance
As an example, assume a borrower pays 45% of her monthly income for her mortgage payment on a $220,000 loan. If her lender voluntarily agrees to reduce her mortgage payment down to 38% of her income, the federal government will match that, dollar-for-dollar, to bring her debt-to-income ratio further down to 31%. The loan modification could save the borrower over $400 per month on her mortgage payments.
Q 43. What is the purpose of the Home Affordable Modification program?
A The purpose of the Home Affordable Modification program is to prevent foreclosures by making mortgage payments more affordable for working homeowners who are struggling to keep their homes. The program is not intended to replace lost equity. However, if the program prevents avoidable foreclosures, it will stabilize property values which will benefit all homeowners.
Q 44. When does the Home Affordable Modification program take effect?
A The intent is for Home Affordable Modifications to begin immediately. However, the contracts that the Treasury Department will require participating loan servicers to enter into are not expected to be available until April 2009. Once contracts with servicers and investors are signed, a list of participating lenders will be made available to the public at http://www.financialstability.gov/.
Q 45. What are the eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Modification?
A The eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Modification are as follows:
• Borrower occupies the property as a primary residence;
• Property is one-to-four units;
• Loan to be modified is a first trust deed;
• Borrower’s monthly mortgage payment (including taxes, insurance, and homeowners association dues) exceeds 31% of the borrower’s gross monthly income;
• Borrower has experienced a significant change in income or expense to the point that the current mortgage payment is no longer affordable;
• Unpaid principal balance is $729,750 or less (for one unit properties and higher for two-to-four units); and
• Loan was originated before January 1, 2009.
In addition to the above, a borrower with a “back end” debt (i.e. monthly housing, credit card, and car payments) of 55% or more of his or her income will be required, as a condition for the modification, to enter into a HUD-certified consumer debt counseling program.
Q 46. How will a participating lender reduce a borrower’s monthly payments?
A A participating lender may elect to reduce the interest rate on a loan down to a 2% minimum. If the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio is still above 31%, the next step for the lender is to increase the amortization period up to 40 years. If the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio is still more than 31% then the lender must forbear (defer) principal.
A lender may always elect to forgive principal rather than lower the interest rate, extend the amortization, or forbear on the principal balance. However, loan servicers are not required to offer permanent principal reductions.
If a lender reduces the interest rate under the Home Affordable Modification program, the interest rate must be a minimum of 2% and fixed for five years, after which the lender could gradually raise the interest rate no more than one percentage point per year until the note rate reaches the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey rate on the date the loan modification was executed. If the modified rate is higher than the Survey rate, the interest rate for the remaining loan term will be the modified rate.
Q 47. How does a forbearance of principal work under a Home Affordable Modification?
A If a participating lender agrees to forbear (defer) principal, the deferred principal will be owed when the house is sold or refinanced or the loan is otherwise paid off. The amount of the deferred principal will be a balloon payment, but it will not accrue interest. If the lender extends the amortization period without extending the loan term, the balloon payment may be even bigger.
Q 48. How do homeowners determine whether they qualify for a Home Affordable Modification?
A A self-assessment tool is available for homeowners to determine whether they are eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance or Modification at http://www.financialstability.gov/makinghomeaffordable/.
Q 49. Are loans other than Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans eligible for a Home Affordable Modification?
A Yes. Most conventional loans including prime, subprime, adjustable, loans owned by lenders, and loans in securities, are eligible for a Home Affordable Modification. FHA and VA loans are not eligible for a Home Affordable Modification, but these agencies may offer other modification programs to help borrowers stay in their homes.
Q 50. Does a Home Affordable Modification cost anything for the borrower?
A No. The borrower incurs no modification fee or charge for a Home Affordable Modification.
Q 51. Does a borrower have to be delinquent on his or her mortgage payments to qualify for a Home Affordable Modification?
A No. Borrowers who are delinquent or simply struggling to remain current on their mortgage payments may qualify for a Home Affordable Modification if they are at risk of imminent default. As an example, a couple may qualify because they have had or will soon have a significant increase in their mortgage payment that they cannot afford.
Q 52. Is a borrower with both a first and second trust deed eligible for a Home Affordable Modification?
A Yes. A borrower with both a first and second trust deed can still apply for a Home Affordable Modification, but only the first trust deed will be modified. The second trust deed lender will be required to subordinate to the modified loan. The Home Affordable Modification program provides an incentive payment of up to $1,000 to pay off junior lien holders.
Q 53. Is a borrower eligible for a Home Affordable Modification if he or she is currently upside down on the property (i.e. owes more on the mortgage loan than the property is worth)?
A Yes, but a lender under this program is not required to reduce the principal balance.
Q 54. Is a lender required to modify a loan under the Home Affordable Modification program?
A No, in most cases. A mortgage lender may generally choose whether to participate in the Home Affordable Modification program. However, participation in the program is mandatory for any institution that accepts future funding from the Treasury’s Financial Stability Program.
Once a lender participates in the program, it must screen any borrower who contacts the servicer and meet the minimum eligibility criteria to determine if he or she is at risk of imminent default. During this screening, the loan servicer must ascertain whether a borrower has had a change in circumstances that causes financial hardship or is facing a recent or imminent increase in the payment that is likely to create a financial hardship (payment shock). All loans that meet eligibility requirements must be modified, unless there is fraud or modification is prohibited by the loan servicing agreement.
Q 55. Are mortgage insurance companies required to participate in the Home Affordable Modification program?
A No. However, the major mortgage insurance firms have agreed to help prevent foreclosures by developing a procedure for them to make partial claims on modified loans where appropriate.
Q 56. What are the monetary incentives for a Home Affordable Modification?
A Monetary incentives will be given to loan servicers, lenders, and borrowers under the Home Affordable Modification program. Loan servicers will receive $1,000 as an upfront fee for every eligible modification. They also will receive up to $1,000 per year for three years as a “pay for success fee” awarded monthly if the borrower stays current on the loan. They will also receive $500 and the mortgage holders will receive $1,500 if they modify an at-risk loan before the borrower becomes delinquent. The loan servicer is also eligible to receive $500 for efforts made to extinguish second liens on loans modified and an extra $250 for obtaining a release of a valid second lien.
The Home Affordable Modification program also has monetary incentives for borrowers. After a 90-day trial period, borrowers with modified loans will receive $1,000 per year for five years as success incentives to stay current on their mortgage loan. This incentive will be provided to a borrower in the form of a monthly reduction in the principal balance owed.
Q 57. Are monetary incentives available for short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure?
A Yes. Participating loan servicers will receive incentives to take alternatives to foreclosure, like short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosure. Loan servicers will be eligible for a $500 incentive and can make reimbursable payments up to $1,000 to extinguish other liens. Borrowers are eligible for a payment of $1,500 in relocation expenses if they effectuate short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure. These incentives for short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure are available to encourage families and loan servicers to avoid the costly foreclosure process and minimize the damage that foreclosure inflicts on lenders, borrowers, and communities.
Q 58. What is the Home Price Decline Reserve Fund?
A Under the Home Affordable Modification Program, the U.S. Treasury Department will establish a $10 billion reserve fund to encourage lenders to modify loans. In a down market, lenders may opt to foreclose rather than restructure a loan when they fear that home values will fall later on. This insurance fund will encourage a lender to modify the loan instead by making an insurance payment to the lender in cash for any decline in a home price index for each modified loan.
Q&A: HOME AFFORDABLE REFINANCE PROGRAM
Q 29. What is the Home Affordable Refinance program?
A The Obama Administration aims to help 4 to 5 million homeowners who are unable to refinance due to falling home values. The new program will help owner-occupied borrowers with conforming Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans to refinance up to 105 percent of the current market value of their properties.
Q 30. What is the purpose of the Home Affordable Refinance program?
A The purpose of the Home Affordable Refinance program is to help homeowners who are unable to take advantage of lower interest rates because of falling property values.
As background, a homeowner seeking to refinance is generally limited to a loan amount of not more than 80 percent of the appraised value. Yet, during the housing market downturn of the late 2000s, home values have dropped. As a result, many homeowners are unable to refinance to take advantage of historically low mortgage rates.
As an example, consider a couple who purchased a home a few years ago for $260,000. They took out a $208,000 mortgage loan at 6.5% for 30 years. Today, they owe $200,000 on the loan. However, if the home values in their neighborhood have dropped 15%, their property may currently only be worth $221,000. If a lender requires an 80% loan-to-value ratio for a refinance, the borrowers could only finance $176,800, even though they owe $200,000. Yet, if the couple could avail themselves of the current going interest rate of, let’s say, 5 percent, they could save roughly $2,400 per year in mortgage payments.
Q 31. When does the Home Affordable Refinance program take effect?
A Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are issuing guidelines to originating lenders that will allow them to begin offering the Home Affordable Refinance immediately. The Home Affordable Refinance will sunset on December 31, 2012.
Q 32. What are the eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A The eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Refinance is as follows:
• Current loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (see Questions 33 to 35);
• Owner occupied, one-to-four unit home;
• Maximum refinance loan amount is 105% of the current market value of the property;
• Borrower must have sufficient income to support the new mortgage debt; and
• Borrower must have an acceptable mortgage payment history.
Q 33. Which loans qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A The Home Affordable Refinance is available for first trust deed loans owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. This includes loans that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac hold in their portfolios or that they placed in mortgage-back securities.
The principal balance of the existing loan cannot exceed 105% of the current market value of the property. For example, a borrower who owes $210,000 on a mortgage loan that has been sold in the secondary market to Fannie Mae would qualify under the refinance program, even though the property is currently worth only $200,000.
Q 34. How do homeowners determine whether they qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance? A A self-assessment tool is available for homeowners to determine whether they are eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance or Modification at http://www.financialstability.gov/makinghomeaffordable/.
Q 35. How does a REALTOR® or borrower determine whether a loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac?
A Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have established toll-free telephone numbers and web access to make this information available. Borrowers will provide or enter information to determine if either agency owns or securitized the loan. The information, however, is not a guarantee of eligibility for the Home Affordable Refinance.
For Fannie Mae’s Resource Center, the telephone number is 1-800-7FANNIE or 1 800 732 6643 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST) or inquire online at www.fanniemae.com/homepath/homeaffordable.jhtml.
For Freddie Mac, the telephone number is 1-800-FREDDIE or 1-800 373 3343 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST) or inquire online at www.freddiemac.com/corporate/buyown/english/avoiding_foreclosure/avoiding_foreclosure_form.html.
Alternatively, a borrower may contact the lender or loan servicer to inquire as to whether the underlying loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
To provide some background, a mortgage loan is typically funded with a financial institution and then sold in the secondary market to government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Oftentimes, the financial institution continues to collect the monthly mortgage payments and service the loan, which is why the borrower may not be aware that the loan has been sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Q 36. Are loans other than Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans also eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A No. A Home Affordable Refinance is only available for conforming loans owned or securitized by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. However, loans not owned or securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac may qualify for a Home Affordable Modification (see Question 42).
Q 37. Can a borrower with both a first and second trust deed obtain a Home Affordable Refinance?
A Yes. A borrower with more than one mortgage loan can refinance the first trust deed if the principal balance is less than 105% of the current property value. However, the borrower must obtain an approval from the second trust deed lender to subordinate or remain in a second position.
Q 38. What are the terms of a Home Affordable Refinance loan?
A A loan refinanced under the Home Affordable Refinance program will be a fixed rate loan for 15 or 30 years. The interest rate will be based on market rates at the time of the refinance and associated points and fees. The refinance loans will have no prepayment penalties or balloon payments.
The principal balance of a mortgage loan will not be reduced under the Home Affordable Refinance program. The objective of the new refinance program is to provide borrowers with safe and affordable mortgage loans.
Q 39. Can a borrower who is currently delinquent qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A No. Borrowers currently delinquent on their mortgage loans will not qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance. Borrowers must be current on their mortgage payments, meaning they have not been more than 30-days late in the last 12 months.
Q 40. Can a borrower take cash out in a Home Affordable Refinance?
A No. Only the transaction costs may be added to the loan amount of a Home Affordable Refinance.
A The Obama Administration aims to help 4 to 5 million homeowners who are unable to refinance due to falling home values. The new program will help owner-occupied borrowers with conforming Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans to refinance up to 105 percent of the current market value of their properties.
Q 30. What is the purpose of the Home Affordable Refinance program?
A The purpose of the Home Affordable Refinance program is to help homeowners who are unable to take advantage of lower interest rates because of falling property values.
As background, a homeowner seeking to refinance is generally limited to a loan amount of not more than 80 percent of the appraised value. Yet, during the housing market downturn of the late 2000s, home values have dropped. As a result, many homeowners are unable to refinance to take advantage of historically low mortgage rates.
As an example, consider a couple who purchased a home a few years ago for $260,000. They took out a $208,000 mortgage loan at 6.5% for 30 years. Today, they owe $200,000 on the loan. However, if the home values in their neighborhood have dropped 15%, their property may currently only be worth $221,000. If a lender requires an 80% loan-to-value ratio for a refinance, the borrowers could only finance $176,800, even though they owe $200,000. Yet, if the couple could avail themselves of the current going interest rate of, let’s say, 5 percent, they could save roughly $2,400 per year in mortgage payments.
Q 31. When does the Home Affordable Refinance program take effect?
A Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are issuing guidelines to originating lenders that will allow them to begin offering the Home Affordable Refinance immediately. The Home Affordable Refinance will sunset on December 31, 2012.
Q 32. What are the eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A The eligibility requirements for a Home Affordable Refinance is as follows:
• Current loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (see Questions 33 to 35);
• Owner occupied, one-to-four unit home;
• Maximum refinance loan amount is 105% of the current market value of the property;
• Borrower must have sufficient income to support the new mortgage debt; and
• Borrower must have an acceptable mortgage payment history.
Q 33. Which loans qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A The Home Affordable Refinance is available for first trust deed loans owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. This includes loans that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac hold in their portfolios or that they placed in mortgage-back securities.
The principal balance of the existing loan cannot exceed 105% of the current market value of the property. For example, a borrower who owes $210,000 on a mortgage loan that has been sold in the secondary market to Fannie Mae would qualify under the refinance program, even though the property is currently worth only $200,000.
Q 34. How do homeowners determine whether they qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance? A A self-assessment tool is available for homeowners to determine whether they are eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance or Modification at http://www.financialstability.gov/makinghomeaffordable/.
Q 35. How does a REALTOR® or borrower determine whether a loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac?
A Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have established toll-free telephone numbers and web access to make this information available. Borrowers will provide or enter information to determine if either agency owns or securitized the loan. The information, however, is not a guarantee of eligibility for the Home Affordable Refinance.
For Fannie Mae’s Resource Center, the telephone number is 1-800-7FANNIE or 1 800 732 6643 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST) or inquire online at www.fanniemae.com/homepath/homeaffordable.jhtml.
For Freddie Mac, the telephone number is 1-800-FREDDIE or 1-800 373 3343 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST) or inquire online at www.freddiemac.com/corporate/buyown/english/avoiding_foreclosure/avoiding_foreclosure_form.html.
Alternatively, a borrower may contact the lender or loan servicer to inquire as to whether the underlying loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
To provide some background, a mortgage loan is typically funded with a financial institution and then sold in the secondary market to government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Oftentimes, the financial institution continues to collect the monthly mortgage payments and service the loan, which is why the borrower may not be aware that the loan has been sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
Q 36. Are loans other than Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans also eligible for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A No. A Home Affordable Refinance is only available for conforming loans owned or securitized by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. However, loans not owned or securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac may qualify for a Home Affordable Modification (see Question 42).
Q 37. Can a borrower with both a first and second trust deed obtain a Home Affordable Refinance?
A Yes. A borrower with more than one mortgage loan can refinance the first trust deed if the principal balance is less than 105% of the current property value. However, the borrower must obtain an approval from the second trust deed lender to subordinate or remain in a second position.
Q 38. What are the terms of a Home Affordable Refinance loan?
A A loan refinanced under the Home Affordable Refinance program will be a fixed rate loan for 15 or 30 years. The interest rate will be based on market rates at the time of the refinance and associated points and fees. The refinance loans will have no prepayment penalties or balloon payments.
The principal balance of a mortgage loan will not be reduced under the Home Affordable Refinance program. The objective of the new refinance program is to provide borrowers with safe and affordable mortgage loans.
Q 39. Can a borrower who is currently delinquent qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance?
A No. Borrowers currently delinquent on their mortgage loans will not qualify for a Home Affordable Refinance. Borrowers must be current on their mortgage payments, meaning they have not been more than 30-days late in the last 12 months.
Q 40. Can a borrower take cash out in a Home Affordable Refinance?
A No. Only the transaction costs may be added to the loan amount of a Home Affordable Refinance.
Q&A: C. OTHER PROVISIONS OF THE RECOVERY ACT
Q 28. What are the other housing stimulus provisions or provisions of interest in the Recovery Act?
A A brief summary of some of the remaining provisions of the Recovery Act that stimulate housing or may otherwise be of interest to REALTORS® are as follows:
• Making Work Pay Credit: Both wage earners and self-employed workers will receive a work credit of 6.2% of earned income or $400, whichever is less, for individuals earning up to $75,000 (or $800 for married couples earning up to $150,000). Wage earners will generally receive about $8 to $13 per week more on their paychecks as a result of a reduction in their FICA withholdings. Self employed workers can receive this work credit by claiming it on their tax returns. This program ends on December 31, 2010.
• Neighborhood Stabilization Program: $2 billion will be added to the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. This program provides funds to state and local governments for stabilizing and reviving distressed neighborhoods, rehabilitating affordable housing, improving public facilities, and other community development efforts.
• Net Operating Loss Carryback for Businesses: This provision allows eligible businesses with a net operating loss for 2008 to carry back the loss to offset profits earned over the past 5 years.
• Bonus Depreciation for Businesses: This provision allows businesses to deduct a 50% first-year bonus depreciation for new equipment purchased in 2009.
• Vehicle Sales Tax Deduction: Taxpayers may deduct state, local, and excises taxes on the purchase of a new car, light truck, or other vehicles in 2009 for individuals earning less than $150,000 (or $250,000 for joint filers). The deduction cannot exceed the tax for the first $49,500 of the vehicle’s purchase price.
• Energy-Efficient Homes and Buildings: Clean-energy provisions include $16 billion to make homes and buildings more energy efficient, such as a 30% tax credit to homeowners who purchase new furnaces, windows, and insulation.
• Rural Housing Service: $500 million will be used to fund federal loan programs for rural housing.
• Lead Hazard Reduction: About $100 million has been allocated for HUD’s lead based paint and hazard reduction and remediation activities.
• Section 8 Assistance: $2 billion will be used to fund Section 8 project-based housing contracts for 12 months.
• Emergency Shelter for Homeless: $1.5 billion has been earmarked to help homeless persons and families in shelters.
A A brief summary of some of the remaining provisions of the Recovery Act that stimulate housing or may otherwise be of interest to REALTORS® are as follows:
• Making Work Pay Credit: Both wage earners and self-employed workers will receive a work credit of 6.2% of earned income or $400, whichever is less, for individuals earning up to $75,000 (or $800 for married couples earning up to $150,000). Wage earners will generally receive about $8 to $13 per week more on their paychecks as a result of a reduction in their FICA withholdings. Self employed workers can receive this work credit by claiming it on their tax returns. This program ends on December 31, 2010.
• Neighborhood Stabilization Program: $2 billion will be added to the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. This program provides funds to state and local governments for stabilizing and reviving distressed neighborhoods, rehabilitating affordable housing, improving public facilities, and other community development efforts.
• Net Operating Loss Carryback for Businesses: This provision allows eligible businesses with a net operating loss for 2008 to carry back the loss to offset profits earned over the past 5 years.
• Bonus Depreciation for Businesses: This provision allows businesses to deduct a 50% first-year bonus depreciation for new equipment purchased in 2009.
• Vehicle Sales Tax Deduction: Taxpayers may deduct state, local, and excises taxes on the purchase of a new car, light truck, or other vehicles in 2009 for individuals earning less than $150,000 (or $250,000 for joint filers). The deduction cannot exceed the tax for the first $49,500 of the vehicle’s purchase price.
• Energy-Efficient Homes and Buildings: Clean-energy provisions include $16 billion to make homes and buildings more energy efficient, such as a 30% tax credit to homeowners who purchase new furnaces, windows, and insulation.
• Rural Housing Service: $500 million will be used to fund federal loan programs for rural housing.
• Lead Hazard Reduction: About $100 million has been allocated for HUD’s lead based paint and hazard reduction and remediation activities.
• Section 8 Assistance: $2 billion will be used to fund Section 8 project-based housing contracts for 12 months.
• Emergency Shelter for Homeless: $1.5 billion has been earmarked to help homeless persons and families in shelters.
Q&A: B. FHA, FANNIE MAE, AND FREDDIE MAC LOAN LIMITS
Q 21. What are the loan limits under the Recovery Act?
A The Recovery Act has increased the maximum conforming loan limit from $625,500 to $729,750 for FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans. These higher loan limits are intended to ease the mortgage crisis of the late 2000s by helping homeowners and homebuyers get more affordable mortgage loans.
As background, the $729,750 loan limit was originally established in 2008, but dropped down to $625,500 on January 1, 2009. The new law reinstates the conforming loan limit to 125% of the 2008 local area median home price, not to exceed $729,750.
Q 22. What are the FHA loan limits in California?
A The new FHA loan limit is 125% of the 2008 local area median home price or $271,050, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $729,750 for one-unit properties. The higher FHA loan limit will assist REALTORS® and their clients to obtain safe mortgage loans with fixed interest rates, low down payment requirements, and other affordable terms.
Counties in California at the maximum FHA loan limit of $729,750 are Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Orange, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Ventura. The FHA loan limits for the other counties in California range from $271,050 to $679,500. For FHA’s Mortgage Limits List, go to https://entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/hicost1.cfm.
The Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has the discretionary authority to increase the FHA loan limit for any sub-area smaller than a county if the median home price in that sub-area warrants a higher loan limit.
Q 23. Which loans qualify for the new FHA loan limits?
A The new FHA loan limits apply to loans for which credit is approved for the borrower in the calendar year 2009 (until December 31, 2009).
Q 24. Where can I obtain more information about FHA loans?
A For more information about FHA loans, go to HUD’s website at http://www.hud.gov/fha/choosefha.cfm or the FHA’s website at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page?_pageid=73,1&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL.
Q 25. What are the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits in California?
A The new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac conforming loan limit is 125% of the median home price or $417,000, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $729,750. Counties in California that are at the maximum loan limit of $729,750 are Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Orange, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Ventura. The loan limits for the other counties in California range from $417,000 to $679,500.
For more information about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, including lookup tables for the loan limits for specific counties and high-cost areas in California, go to the website of the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight at http://www.ofheo.gov/regulations.aspx?nav=128.
The director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has the discretionary authority to increase the Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan limit for any sub-area smaller than a county if the median home price in that sub-area warrants a higher loan limit.
Q 26. Which loans qualify for the new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits?
A The new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits apply to all loans originated in 2009. They also apply to loans purchased in 2009 that were originated from July 1, 2007 through December 31, 2008.
Q 27. Where can I obtain more information about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans?
A For more information about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, go to the website of the Federal Housing Finance Agency at http://www.fhfa.gov/. Fannie Mae’s website is http://www.fanniemae.com/index.jhtml. Freddie Mac’s website is http://www.freddiemac.com/.
A The Recovery Act has increased the maximum conforming loan limit from $625,500 to $729,750 for FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans. These higher loan limits are intended to ease the mortgage crisis of the late 2000s by helping homeowners and homebuyers get more affordable mortgage loans.
As background, the $729,750 loan limit was originally established in 2008, but dropped down to $625,500 on January 1, 2009. The new law reinstates the conforming loan limit to 125% of the 2008 local area median home price, not to exceed $729,750.
Q 22. What are the FHA loan limits in California?
A The new FHA loan limit is 125% of the 2008 local area median home price or $271,050, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $729,750 for one-unit properties. The higher FHA loan limit will assist REALTORS® and their clients to obtain safe mortgage loans with fixed interest rates, low down payment requirements, and other affordable terms.
Counties in California at the maximum FHA loan limit of $729,750 are Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Orange, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Ventura. The FHA loan limits for the other counties in California range from $271,050 to $679,500. For FHA’s Mortgage Limits List, go to https://entp.hud.gov/idapp/html/hicost1.cfm.
The Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has the discretionary authority to increase the FHA loan limit for any sub-area smaller than a county if the median home price in that sub-area warrants a higher loan limit.
Q 23. Which loans qualify for the new FHA loan limits?
A The new FHA loan limits apply to loans for which credit is approved for the borrower in the calendar year 2009 (until December 31, 2009).
Q 24. Where can I obtain more information about FHA loans?
A For more information about FHA loans, go to HUD’s website at http://www.hud.gov/fha/choosefha.cfm or the FHA’s website at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page?_pageid=73,1&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL.
Q 25. What are the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits in California?
A The new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac conforming loan limit is 125% of the median home price or $417,000, whichever is greater, but not to exceed $729,750. Counties in California that are at the maximum loan limit of $729,750 are Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Orange, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Ventura. The loan limits for the other counties in California range from $417,000 to $679,500.
For more information about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, including lookup tables for the loan limits for specific counties and high-cost areas in California, go to the website of the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight at http://www.ofheo.gov/regulations.aspx?nav=128.
The director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has the discretionary authority to increase the Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan limit for any sub-area smaller than a county if the median home price in that sub-area warrants a higher loan limit.
Q 26. Which loans qualify for the new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits?
A The new Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits apply to all loans originated in 2009. They also apply to loans purchased in 2009 that were originated from July 1, 2007 through December 31, 2008.
Q 27. Where can I obtain more information about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans?
A For more information about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, go to the website of the Federal Housing Finance Agency at http://www.fhfa.gov/. Fannie Mae’s website is http://www.fanniemae.com/index.jhtml. Freddie Mac’s website is http://www.freddiemac.com/.
Q&A: A. FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER TAX CREDIT
Q 1. What, in a nutshell, is the $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers under the new law?
A A first-time homebuyer as defined may receive a refundable tax credit up to $8,000 for purchasing a principal residence in the U.S. from January 1, 2000 to November 30, 2009, inclusive (see Questions 5 to 16). No repayment is required if the buyer owns and occupies the property for 36 months (see Question 17). This new law enhances the preexisting $7,500 tax credit enacted in 2008 which still applies for purchases from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008 (see Questions 18 and 19).
Q 2. How will the new $8,000 tax credit affect REALTORS® and their clients?
A The new $8,000 tax credit provides a monetary incentive for first-time homebuyers to purchase homes. First time homebuyers represent a significant segment of U.S. homebuyers. According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, nearly half of the homebuyers in 2008 were first-time homebuyers. Hence, the new tax credit for first-time homebuyers, along with affordable home prices and historically low mortgage rates, should help spur the housing market.
Q 3. What is a tax credit?
A A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of tax owed. In contrast to a tax credit, a tax deduction is merely a reduction of taxable income. Hence, a tax credit is generally more valuable to the taxpayer than a tax deduction. To illustrate, an $8,000 tax deduction for a taxpayer in a 25% tax bracket would only save the taxpayer $2,000 in taxes, whereas an $8,000 tax credit would save the taxpayer $8,000 in taxes.
Q 4. What is the significance of a “refundable” tax credit?
A That a tax credit is “refundable” means that any credit amount not used to reduce the tax owed may be added to the taxpayer’s tax refund check. In other words, a taxpayer may receive a tax credit even if he or she has no tax liability to offset that credit.
As an example, let’s say a taxpayer filing his tax returns on April 15 would have owed $2,000 to the IRS. If the taxpayer can now claim an $8,000 refundable tax credit, he can expect to receive a refund check from the IRS for $6,000.
Q 5. Who is eligible as a “first-time homebuyer” for the $8,000 tax credit?
A For purposes of the $8,000 tax credit, a “first-time homebuyer” is defined as any individual (or spouse) with no present ownership interest in a principal residence during the 3-year period ending on the date of the purchase of the principal residence to which the tax credit applies (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(1)). For income restrictions, see Question 9.
As an example, an unmarried buyer who closes escrow on a purchase on June 30, 2009, would qualify as a “first-time homebuyer” as long as the buyer did not own a principal residence during the period from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2009. Even if the taxpayer owned another principal residence in the past, he or she can still qualify as a “first-time homebuyer” as long as the taxpayer transferred off title to that other home over three years ago.
Q 6. What constitutes a “principal residence” under the $8,000 tax credit?
A A “principal residence” is generally the home the taxpayer lives in most of the time (26 U.S.C. § 121). It can be a house, condominium, townhome, manufactured home, or similar type of property located in the U.S. To qualify for the federal $8,000 tax credit, the property can be new construction or a resale. It cannot, however, be a vacation home or rental property.
Q 7. What constitutes a “purchase” to be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit?
A A “purchase” for purposes of this tax credit is defined as any acquisition, except as set forth in Question 15 (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)). For a home that the taxpayer constructs, the purchase date is the date the taxpayer first occupies the home (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(B)).
Because a purchase is defined as an acquisition, it generally occurs when escrow closes and title to the property transfers to the buyer, and not when the underlying purchase contract is signed. To illustrate, a buyer who enters into a contract to purchase a property on November 13, 2009, but closes escrow on December 23, 2009, would not qualify for the $8,000 tax credit because, based on the law as it is currently written, acquisition does not occur before the law expires on November 30, 2009.
Q 8. How is the amount of the tax credit calculated?
A The maximum tax credit for an individual first-time homebuyer is 10 percent of the purchase price, not to exceed $8,000 (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(1)(A)). For married individuals filing separate tax returns, the tax credit is capped at $4,000 (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(1)(B)).
For a purchase price over $80,000, as is often the case in California, the first-time homebuyer tax credit will be capped off at $8,000. “Purchase price” under this law is defined as the adjusted basis of the principal residence on the date such residence is purchased (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(4)).
Q 9. Is there an income restriction to be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit?
A Yes. The first-time homebuyer tax credit may be restricted by the taxpayer’s income. The tax credit starts to phase out for an individual taxpayer with a modified adjusted gross income from $75,001 to $95,000 (or $150,001 to $170,000 for joint filers). The tax credit is eliminated entirely if an individual’s modified adjusted gross income is over $95,000 (or $170,000 for joint filers). (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(2).)
Q 10. What is a modified adjusted gross income?
A First, a modified adjusted gross income or MAGI is a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income (AGI) plus certain items, such as IRA deductions, student loan deductions, higher education costs, foreign income, and foreign housing deductions, among other things. Second, an adjusted gross income (AGI) is a taxpayer’s gross income minus certain deductions, which are often called “above the line” deductions. Most tax deductions are “above the line” deductions, except itemized deductions from Schedule A and personal exemptions.
Q 11. When must a first-time homebuyer purchase a property to qualify for the $8,000 tax credit?
A To be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit, a first-time homebuyer must purchase a principal residence from January 1, 2009 to November 30, 2009, inclusive (26 U.S.C. § 36(f) and (h)). The deadline is November 30, 2009, and not December 31, 2009. That the deadline is not at the end of the year may work as a trap for unwary buyers.
For the first-time homebuyer tax credit for acquisitions from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008, see Question 18.
Q 12. When can a taxpayer claim the $8,000 tax credit?
A According to an IRS announcement on February 25, 2009, first-time homebuyers who qualify for the $8,000 tax credit by purchasing a home before December 1, 2009 have a special option of claiming the tax credit on either their 2008 or 2009 tax returns (IR 2009 14).
Q 13. Does a married person qualify for the $8,000 tax credit if his or her spouse has owned a principal residence in the last three years?
A No. For a married taxpayer to qualify for the $8,000 tax credit, both spouses must be “first-time homebuyers” as defined in Question 5. In other words, neither spouse qualifies for the $8,000 tax credit unless both of them have not owned a principal residence over the last three years.
Q 14. Are two unmarried individuals both eligible for the first-time homebuyer tax credit if they buy a house together?
A Yes. Two or more unmarried individuals can buy a principal residence together, but the maximum tax credit for all of them is only $8,000. If all co-owners qualify as first-time homebuyers, they must allocate the $8,000 tax credit between themselves in any reasonable manner. According to the IRS, a reasonable method is any method that does not allocate all or a part of the credit to a co-owner who is not eligible to claim that part of the credit (see IRS Form 5405).
Q 15. Who cannot claim the first-time homebuyer tax credit?
A The first-time homebuyer tax credit is not allowed under any of the following circumstances:
• The property is acquired from a related person as defined (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(A)) (see Question 16);
• The property is acquired by gift or inheritance (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(A));
• The buyer is a nonresident alien (26 U.S.C. § 36(d)(1)); or
• The buyer disposes of the property (or the property ceases to be the principal residence of the buyer and, if married, the buyer’s spouse) before the end of such taxable year (26 U.S.C. § 36(d)(2)).
Q 16. What acquisitions from related persons do not qualify for the first-time homebuyer tax credit?
A A buyer is ineligible for the first-time homebuyer tax credit if the property is acquired from certain related persons, including, but not limited to, the following:
• The buyer’s spouse, ancestors (such as parents and grandparents), or lineal descendants (such as children or grandchildren);
• A corporation in which the buyer owns more than 50% of the outstanding stock; or
• A partnership in which the buyer owns more than 50% interest.
(26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(A) (citing §§ 267 and 707).)
Q 17. Is a first-time homebuyer required to repay the $8,000 tax credit?
A No, the tax credit need not be repaid if the buyer owns and occupies the property for at least 36 months. If, however, the buyer disposes of the property or it ceases to be the buyer’s principal residence within 36 months of purchase, the buyer may be required to repay the tax credit (26 U.S.C. § 36(f)(4)). This includes situations where the buyer sells the home, converts it into a rental property or business, or the home is destroyed, condemned, or disposed of under threat of condemnation. In these situations, the tax credit must generally be repaid by including it as additional tax for the year the home ceases to be the buyer’s principal residence (26 U.S.C. § 36(f)(4)(D)).
Q 18. What is the $7,500 first-time homebuyer tax credit for a principal residence purchased in 2008?
A With certain exceptions, a first-time homebuyer may receive a 10% tax credit not to exceed $7,500 for purchasing a principal residence from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008 (26 U.S.C. § 36(a) and (b)). This tax credit was enacted as part of the federal Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. As with the $8,000 tax credit discussed above, the $7,500 tax credit phases out if an individual’s modified adjusted gross income exceeds $75,000 (or $150,000 for joint filers) (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(2)). The $7,500 tax credit phases out completely if an individual’s modified adjusted gross income exceeds $95,000 (or 170,000 for joint filers) (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(2)).
The $7,500 tax credit must generally be repaid like an interest-free loan in equal annual installments over a 15-year period, or in full if the homebuyer sells the property for a gain (26 U.S.C. § 36(f)). For example, to repay a $7,500 tax credit for 2008, about $500 should be added to the buyer’s income tax liability every year for 15 years starting 2010.
Q 19. What are the major differences between the new $8,000 tax credit and the previous $7,500 tax credit?
A The $8,000 tax credit is $500 more and applicable to first-time homebuyers who purchase a principal residence from January 1, 2009 to November 30, 2009. The $8,000 tax credit need not be repaid if the buyer stays in the property for 36 months.
On the other hand, the $7,500 tax credit applies to first-time homebuyers who purchased a principal residence from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008. The $7,500 tax credit must generally be repaid over 15 years.
Q 20. How does a first-time homebuyer apply for the tax credit?
A A first-time buyer may claim the tax credit on their federal tax returns using IRS Form 5405, which is available at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5405.pdf.
A A first-time homebuyer as defined may receive a refundable tax credit up to $8,000 for purchasing a principal residence in the U.S. from January 1, 2000 to November 30, 2009, inclusive (see Questions 5 to 16). No repayment is required if the buyer owns and occupies the property for 36 months (see Question 17). This new law enhances the preexisting $7,500 tax credit enacted in 2008 which still applies for purchases from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008 (see Questions 18 and 19).
Q 2. How will the new $8,000 tax credit affect REALTORS® and their clients?
A The new $8,000 tax credit provides a monetary incentive for first-time homebuyers to purchase homes. First time homebuyers represent a significant segment of U.S. homebuyers. According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, nearly half of the homebuyers in 2008 were first-time homebuyers. Hence, the new tax credit for first-time homebuyers, along with affordable home prices and historically low mortgage rates, should help spur the housing market.
Q 3. What is a tax credit?
A A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of tax owed. In contrast to a tax credit, a tax deduction is merely a reduction of taxable income. Hence, a tax credit is generally more valuable to the taxpayer than a tax deduction. To illustrate, an $8,000 tax deduction for a taxpayer in a 25% tax bracket would only save the taxpayer $2,000 in taxes, whereas an $8,000 tax credit would save the taxpayer $8,000 in taxes.
Q 4. What is the significance of a “refundable” tax credit?
A That a tax credit is “refundable” means that any credit amount not used to reduce the tax owed may be added to the taxpayer’s tax refund check. In other words, a taxpayer may receive a tax credit even if he or she has no tax liability to offset that credit.
As an example, let’s say a taxpayer filing his tax returns on April 15 would have owed $2,000 to the IRS. If the taxpayer can now claim an $8,000 refundable tax credit, he can expect to receive a refund check from the IRS for $6,000.
Q 5. Who is eligible as a “first-time homebuyer” for the $8,000 tax credit?
A For purposes of the $8,000 tax credit, a “first-time homebuyer” is defined as any individual (or spouse) with no present ownership interest in a principal residence during the 3-year period ending on the date of the purchase of the principal residence to which the tax credit applies (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(1)). For income restrictions, see Question 9.
As an example, an unmarried buyer who closes escrow on a purchase on June 30, 2009, would qualify as a “first-time homebuyer” as long as the buyer did not own a principal residence during the period from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2009. Even if the taxpayer owned another principal residence in the past, he or she can still qualify as a “first-time homebuyer” as long as the taxpayer transferred off title to that other home over three years ago.
Q 6. What constitutes a “principal residence” under the $8,000 tax credit?
A A “principal residence” is generally the home the taxpayer lives in most of the time (26 U.S.C. § 121). It can be a house, condominium, townhome, manufactured home, or similar type of property located in the U.S. To qualify for the federal $8,000 tax credit, the property can be new construction or a resale. It cannot, however, be a vacation home or rental property.
Q 7. What constitutes a “purchase” to be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit?
A A “purchase” for purposes of this tax credit is defined as any acquisition, except as set forth in Question 15 (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)). For a home that the taxpayer constructs, the purchase date is the date the taxpayer first occupies the home (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(B)).
Because a purchase is defined as an acquisition, it generally occurs when escrow closes and title to the property transfers to the buyer, and not when the underlying purchase contract is signed. To illustrate, a buyer who enters into a contract to purchase a property on November 13, 2009, but closes escrow on December 23, 2009, would not qualify for the $8,000 tax credit because, based on the law as it is currently written, acquisition does not occur before the law expires on November 30, 2009.
Q 8. How is the amount of the tax credit calculated?
A The maximum tax credit for an individual first-time homebuyer is 10 percent of the purchase price, not to exceed $8,000 (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(1)(A)). For married individuals filing separate tax returns, the tax credit is capped at $4,000 (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(1)(B)).
For a purchase price over $80,000, as is often the case in California, the first-time homebuyer tax credit will be capped off at $8,000. “Purchase price” under this law is defined as the adjusted basis of the principal residence on the date such residence is purchased (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(4)).
Q 9. Is there an income restriction to be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit?
A Yes. The first-time homebuyer tax credit may be restricted by the taxpayer’s income. The tax credit starts to phase out for an individual taxpayer with a modified adjusted gross income from $75,001 to $95,000 (or $150,001 to $170,000 for joint filers). The tax credit is eliminated entirely if an individual’s modified adjusted gross income is over $95,000 (or $170,000 for joint filers). (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(2).)
Q 10. What is a modified adjusted gross income?
A First, a modified adjusted gross income or MAGI is a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income (AGI) plus certain items, such as IRA deductions, student loan deductions, higher education costs, foreign income, and foreign housing deductions, among other things. Second, an adjusted gross income (AGI) is a taxpayer’s gross income minus certain deductions, which are often called “above the line” deductions. Most tax deductions are “above the line” deductions, except itemized deductions from Schedule A and personal exemptions.
Q 11. When must a first-time homebuyer purchase a property to qualify for the $8,000 tax credit?
A To be eligible for the $8,000 tax credit, a first-time homebuyer must purchase a principal residence from January 1, 2009 to November 30, 2009, inclusive (26 U.S.C. § 36(f) and (h)). The deadline is November 30, 2009, and not December 31, 2009. That the deadline is not at the end of the year may work as a trap for unwary buyers.
For the first-time homebuyer tax credit for acquisitions from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008, see Question 18.
Q 12. When can a taxpayer claim the $8,000 tax credit?
A According to an IRS announcement on February 25, 2009, first-time homebuyers who qualify for the $8,000 tax credit by purchasing a home before December 1, 2009 have a special option of claiming the tax credit on either their 2008 or 2009 tax returns (IR 2009 14).
Q 13. Does a married person qualify for the $8,000 tax credit if his or her spouse has owned a principal residence in the last three years?
A No. For a married taxpayer to qualify for the $8,000 tax credit, both spouses must be “first-time homebuyers” as defined in Question 5. In other words, neither spouse qualifies for the $8,000 tax credit unless both of them have not owned a principal residence over the last three years.
Q 14. Are two unmarried individuals both eligible for the first-time homebuyer tax credit if they buy a house together?
A Yes. Two or more unmarried individuals can buy a principal residence together, but the maximum tax credit for all of them is only $8,000. If all co-owners qualify as first-time homebuyers, they must allocate the $8,000 tax credit between themselves in any reasonable manner. According to the IRS, a reasonable method is any method that does not allocate all or a part of the credit to a co-owner who is not eligible to claim that part of the credit (see IRS Form 5405).
Q 15. Who cannot claim the first-time homebuyer tax credit?
A The first-time homebuyer tax credit is not allowed under any of the following circumstances:
• The property is acquired from a related person as defined (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(A)) (see Question 16);
• The property is acquired by gift or inheritance (26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(A));
• The buyer is a nonresident alien (26 U.S.C. § 36(d)(1)); or
• The buyer disposes of the property (or the property ceases to be the principal residence of the buyer and, if married, the buyer’s spouse) before the end of such taxable year (26 U.S.C. § 36(d)(2)).
Q 16. What acquisitions from related persons do not qualify for the first-time homebuyer tax credit?
A A buyer is ineligible for the first-time homebuyer tax credit if the property is acquired from certain related persons, including, but not limited to, the following:
• The buyer’s spouse, ancestors (such as parents and grandparents), or lineal descendants (such as children or grandchildren);
• A corporation in which the buyer owns more than 50% of the outstanding stock; or
• A partnership in which the buyer owns more than 50% interest.
(26 U.S.C. § 36(c)(3)(A) (citing §§ 267 and 707).)
Q 17. Is a first-time homebuyer required to repay the $8,000 tax credit?
A No, the tax credit need not be repaid if the buyer owns and occupies the property for at least 36 months. If, however, the buyer disposes of the property or it ceases to be the buyer’s principal residence within 36 months of purchase, the buyer may be required to repay the tax credit (26 U.S.C. § 36(f)(4)). This includes situations where the buyer sells the home, converts it into a rental property or business, or the home is destroyed, condemned, or disposed of under threat of condemnation. In these situations, the tax credit must generally be repaid by including it as additional tax for the year the home ceases to be the buyer’s principal residence (26 U.S.C. § 36(f)(4)(D)).
Q 18. What is the $7,500 first-time homebuyer tax credit for a principal residence purchased in 2008?
A With certain exceptions, a first-time homebuyer may receive a 10% tax credit not to exceed $7,500 for purchasing a principal residence from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008 (26 U.S.C. § 36(a) and (b)). This tax credit was enacted as part of the federal Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. As with the $8,000 tax credit discussed above, the $7,500 tax credit phases out if an individual’s modified adjusted gross income exceeds $75,000 (or $150,000 for joint filers) (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(2)). The $7,500 tax credit phases out completely if an individual’s modified adjusted gross income exceeds $95,000 (or 170,000 for joint filers) (26 U.S.C. § 36(b)(2)).
The $7,500 tax credit must generally be repaid like an interest-free loan in equal annual installments over a 15-year period, or in full if the homebuyer sells the property for a gain (26 U.S.C. § 36(f)). For example, to repay a $7,500 tax credit for 2008, about $500 should be added to the buyer’s income tax liability every year for 15 years starting 2010.
Q 19. What are the major differences between the new $8,000 tax credit and the previous $7,500 tax credit?
A The $8,000 tax credit is $500 more and applicable to first-time homebuyers who purchase a principal residence from January 1, 2009 to November 30, 2009. The $8,000 tax credit need not be repaid if the buyer stays in the property for 36 months.
On the other hand, the $7,500 tax credit applies to first-time homebuyers who purchased a principal residence from April 9, 2008 to December 31, 2008. The $7,500 tax credit must generally be repaid over 15 years.
Q 20. How does a first-time homebuyer apply for the tax credit?
A A first-time buyer may claim the tax credit on their federal tax returns using IRS Form 5405, which is available at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5405.pdf.
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