FHA Approval Huge Factor in Marketability of Units

HUD Implements New Approval Process for Condominium Projects to Qualify for FHA Insured Mortgages.

Website Allows Users to Search for FHA Approved Projects.

On June 12th the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) published Mortgagee Letter 2009-19 announcing the new process for approval of condominium projects.  As previously reported on this Blog, Fannie Mae, a federally backed lender, announced several changes to its standards, including the imposition of PERS review.

Lenders are now permitted to determine FHA project eligibility, review project documentation and certify compliance with HUD regulations in furtherance of the directives contained in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (HERA).   In order for a condominium project to be eligible for FHA insured mortgages:

• Hazard and Liability Insurance must be in place.  Flood insurance is also required where applicable.
• Any right of first refusal in the declaration of condominium or other governing document cannot violate prohibitions against discriminatory conduct under the Fair Housing Act regulation in 24 CFR 100.  Many projects have been rejected as a result of the provisions granting the Association the rights to “screen” and “approve” purchasers.
• Commercial use cannot consist of more than 25% of the floor area and commercial uses must be homogeneous with residential use.
• A single investor cannot own more than 10% of the units.
• The owners of no more than 15% of the units may fall into arrears (defined as more than thirty days past due in maintenance fees or assessments).
• At least 50% of the units must be sold, although pre-sales apply.
• At least 50% of the units must be owner-occupied or sold to owners that intend to occupy the units as a primary or secondary residence.

HUD provides resources for home-buyers to determine whether projects are FHA approved.  You may search by location, name or status.  The website also reveals which projects have been rejected by FHA or whether approval is currently pending.  Click here to search whether your condominium is FHA approved.

FHA loans are advantageous for purchasers as generally there is less money required for the down payment,  lower closing costs and lower interest rates than sub prime loans.  FHA loans are a good option for borrowers that cannot qualify for conventional financing, as other alternatives generally include large pre-payment penalties.  FHA limits have increased as a result of the stimulus package as well.

Condominium project approvals expire two (2) years after the initial approval and re-certification to determine whether the project remains in compliance with HUD guidelines is required for continued approval.

Community associations may want to consult with counsel to determine whether it is worthwhile to take action to qualify for FHA and/or Fannie Mae approval, especially if recent sales have slowed.

FHAHousing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008HUDInsuranceMortgagePERS Review