FHLMC Guide Bulletin 2016-22: Freddie Mac Flex Modification
Investor Update
December 14, 2016
In Single-Family Seller/Servicer Guide (Guide) Bulletin 2016-22 [pdf], we’re announcing the new Freddie Mac Flex Modification, which offers you an easier, flexible way of helping more borrowers qualify for a loan modification in a changing housing environment.
Please review today’s Guide Bulletin for detailed information on the Flex Modification.
Key Highlights
While the Flex Modification leverages the Freddie Mac Standard and Streamlined Modifications, a few significant changes from the Standard Modification include:
- The housing-to-income ratio component for borrowers less than 90 days delinquent has changed from less than or equal to 55 percent with a 10 percent floor to less than or equal to 40 percent.
- No choice of amortization terms for borrowers with a mark-to-market loan-to-value (MTMLTV) ratio less than 80 percent.
- You must now forbear principal down to a 100 percent MTMLTV ratio (not to exceed 30 percent of the unpaid principal balance rather than the 115 percent MTMLTV ratio previously allowed under Standard and Streamlined Modifications).
- Key Dates
- We’re providing this information now so you may update your systems as soon as possible.
- You must begin evaluating your portfolios using the criteria described in the Determining the Terms of the Flex Modification table of this Guide Bulletin no later than October 1, 2017. Prior to October 1, 2017, Freddie Mac’s systems will be updated.
- On and after October 1, 2017, this new modification will replace the current Freddie Mac Standard and Streamlined Modifications. In the interim, you’ll still be able to leverage the existing Standard and Streamlined Modifications.
- Upcoming Communications
- We’ll update you about the Flex Modification throughout 2017. In the meantime, please visit Freddie Mac’s new Freddie Mac Flex Modification web page for modification information and reminders.
Important Reminder
The MyCity Modification, Principal Reduction Modification and Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP®) expire at the end of 2016.
- All MyCity Modification Trial Period Plans must have a start date of no later than
December 1, 2016. - All solicitations for the Principal Reduction Modification must be sent on or before
December 31, 2016. - Borrowers must submit a complete Borrower Response Package (BRP) no later than December 30, 2016, to be evaluated for HAMP. Servicers must complete evaluations within 30 days of the Servicer’s receipt of the complete BRP.
For More Information
- Download and save the Freddie Mac Flex Modification term sheet [pdf] for a quick, visual reference to the new modification details.
- Please visit the Freddie Mac Learning Center for updates. Training resources will be available in the first quarter of 2017.
- Contact your Freddie Mac representative.
Source: Freddie Mac