VA is considering a rule that would require lenders to use a new application program interface to report loan information and remit funding fees to the agency. It also plans to rewrite rules regarding when VA would assert a defense for a partial or total loss of a guarantee.

GAO called for Ginnie Mae to develop processes for participating in interagency exercises, noting that FHFA did a better job than Ginnie in an FSOC effort aimed at addressing the likely failure of a major nonbank mortgage company.

The changes were set to take effect Feb. 5. Instead, HUD instituted a 90-day delay to review the final rule developed by the Biden administration.

VA sets return-to-office requirements for employees; Indecomm adds FHA underwriting; RHS interest rates increase; number of downpayment assistance programs grows.

Housing Secretary nominee Scott Turner offered few specifics during his confirmation hearing last week. But he outlined plans to review agency programs and maximize their budgets.

With a new federal administration in charge, the MBA renewed its calls for reductions to FHA premiums. However, the Trump administration is unlikely to cut premiums.

The new policies were established days before the end of the Biden administration and won’t take effect until February 2026. The policies won praise from industry trade groups.

The fees in question related to mortgage payments made over the phone or online. HUD said accepting and processing mortgage payments is part of a servicer’s ordinary activities for which it is already paid.

Among the changes, FHA has reduced the required rental income history to 12 months from two years.

VA origination fees will stay at elevated levels through mid-2034 rather than coming down near the end of 2031. The extension was prompted by a bill that passed Congress with broad bipartisan support.