Fannie Mae Expands Incentives for HomePath Properties

Up to 3.5 Percent Closing Cost Assistance; $1,200 Selling Agent Bonus

Andrew Wilson

202-752-5168

WASHINGTON, DC — Fannie Mae (FNMA/OTC) announced the expansion of incentives to encourage sales of HomePath® REO properties to owner occupants. Now through October 31, qualified buyers and selling agents can receive financial incentives on sales of HomePath properties, which can be found at www.homepath.com. The incentives are part of Fannie Mae's commitment to neighborhood stabilization, and are available on sales to buyers who will reside in the home as their primary residence.

"Supporting homeownership and stabilizing neighborhoods are critical to helping the housing market recover," said Ed Neill, Senior Vice President for Credit Loss Management at Fannie Mae. "Our previous incentives have been effective in securing owner occupants for these properties. By encouraging homebuyers who will make these properties their long-term home, these expanded incentives will help to stabilize communities."

The expanded incentives offer qualified homebuyers up to 3.5 percent of the final sales price to put towards closing costs. In addition, selling agents representing the owner occupant buyer can now receive a $1,200 bonus. The incentive must be requested in the initial offer. Eligible initial offers must be submitted on or after June 14, 2011 and must close by October 31, 2011. Investor sales are not eligible for the incentive.

HomePath properties offer buyers a wide selection of options, including single-family homes, condominiums, and town houses. HomePath properties may also be eligible for HomePath Mortgage and HomePath Renovation Mortgage financing, which offers homebuyers an opportunity to purchase with as little as 3 percent down.