FHFA Seeks Input on Reducing GSE Multifamily Presence

The ""Federal Housing Finance Agency"":http://www.fhfa.gov/ (FHFA) put out a ""release"":http://www.fhfa.gov/webfiles/25420/MultifamilyInput080913Final.pdf asking for public input on strategies for scaling back the GSEs' presence in the multifamily housing finance market in 2014.

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As conservator for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the agency called for a 10 percent year-over-year reduction of their new multifamily business in 2013. FHFA expects the reduction will be achieved through a combination of increased pricing, more limited product offerings, and stronger underwriting standards.

For 2014, FHFA is evaluating alternatives for its reduction strategy, including restrictions on available loan terms; simplification and standardization of loan products; limits on property financing; and limits on business activities.

Input must be received within 60 days of the time the release was posted (August 9).