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Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program

The Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program allows new homebuyers to purchase, even if they’re short on the funds for their down payment or closing costs.

What is the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program?

In simple terms, the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program is designed to provide additional financial support for those looking to purchase a home but who may find it difficult to gather enough funds for a down payment.

This program offers a secondary mortgage that works in conjunction with your primary mortgage, making homeownership more accessible to a broader range of people.

How Does the Program Work?

The Community Second Mortgage Program provides funds from various sources, such as:

  • Municipalities
  • State and County Housing Finance Agencies
  • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Regional Federal Home Loan Banks
  • Indian Tribes
  • Employers

Yes, your employer can even play a role in helping you purchase a home!

These additional funds can be used for down payments, closing costs, interest rate buy-downs, and even renovations. This flexibility makes the program an attractive option for those who need a little extra help getting across the finish line.

General Eligibility Guidelines

Before you get too excited, let’s go over some of the general eligibility requirements for the program:

  1. Funds must be provided by a government or approved entity.
  2. The property must be your principal residence.
  3. The program is applicable only to one-to-four unit properties.
  4. It can be used with any standard lending product.
  5. It’s intended for eligible purchases or limited cash-out refinances, not full cash-out refinances.

Community Second Mortgage Checklist

To qualify for the Community Second Mortgage Program, there are a few key criteria you’ll need to meet:

  1. Combined Loan-to-Value Ratio (CLTV)
    The CLTV cannot exceed 105% of the home’s sales price. This means that the total of your first mortgage and second mortgage must not exceed 105% of what the home is worth.
  2. Second Lien Position
    The second lien must be from an approved entity and cannot take priority over the first mortgage. In other words, if you default, your first mortgage lender gets paid before the second mortgage lender.
  3. Use of Funds
    Funds from the Community Second Mortgage must be used for down payment, closing costs, interest rate buy-downs, or renovations.
  4. Term of the Second Mortgage
    The term of the second mortgage cannot exceed the term of the first mortgage. This ensures that both loans are structured to be paid off within the same timeframe.
  5. Interest Rate on the Second Mortgage
    The interest rate on the second mortgage cannot be more than 2% higher than the initial interest rate of the first mortgage.
  6. No Prepayment Penalties
    There are no penalties if you sell your home or pay off the second mortgage early, offering you flexibility and peace of mind.

The Path to Homeownership Just Got Easier

Imagine the relief of finally moving into your new home without the stress of insufficient funds. The Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program provides a viable path to homeownership, even if you’re struggling to come up with the necessary down payment or closing costs. With this program, your dream home might be closer than you think.

Ready to Get Started?

If this information has sparked your interest and you’re eager to learn more, don’t hesitate! Reach out to our team for personalized advice or to start the application process. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your journey to homeownership.

Have Questions?

We’re here to help! Drop any questions you have in the comments below, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated with our latest content. Your dream home is just a few steps away, and we’re excited to help you make it a reality.

Final Thoughts

Homeownership may seem like a distant dream, but with the right information and support, it’s within reach. The Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program offers a practical solution for those who need a little extra help to make their homeownership dreams come true.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program

1. What is the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program?

The Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program is a financial assistance program designed to help homebuyers who may struggle to gather enough funds for a down payment or closing costs. It provides a secondary mortgage that works in conjunction with a primary mortgage, making homeownership more accessible.

2. Who is eligible for the Community Second Mortgage Program?

Eligibility generally includes:

  • The funds must come from a government or approved entity.
  • The property must be your primary residence.
  • The program is applicable to one-to-four unit properties.
  • It can be used with standard lending products.
  • The program supports eligible purchases or limited cash-out refinances.

3. What sources provide the funds for the Community Second Mortgage Program?

Funds for the program can come from a variety of sources, including:

  • Municipalities
  • State and County Housing Finance Agencies
  • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Regional Federal Home Loan Banks
  • Indian Tribes
  • Employers

4. Can I use the Community Second Mortgage for any property type?

No, the program is limited to one-to-four unit properties that will serve as your principal residence.

5. What can the funds from the Community Second Mortgage be used for?

The funds can be used for:

  • Down payments
  • Closing costs
  • Interest rate buy-downs
  • Renovations

6. What is the Combined Loan-to-Value Ratio (CLTV) requirement?

The CLTV for the Community Second Mortgage Program cannot exceed 105% of the home’s sales price. This means that the combined total of your first and second mortgages must not exceed 105% of the home’s value.

7. How does the interest rate on the second mortgage compare to the first mortgage?

The interest rate on the second mortgage cannot be more than 2% higher than the initial interest rate of the first mortgage.

8. Are there any penalties for paying off the second mortgage early?

No, there are no prepayment penalties. You can sell your home or pay off the second mortgage early without incurring any penalties.

9. How long is the term for the second mortgage?

The term of the second mortgage cannot exceed the term of the first mortgage. This means both mortgages will have a synchronized repayment timeline.

10. Can my employer really help me buy a home through this program?

Yes, under the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program, employers can contribute funds to help you purchase a home. This contribution can be used for down payment, closing costs, or other eligible expenses.

11. Is this program available for full cash-out refinances?

No, the program is only available for eligible purchases or limited cash-out refinances. It is not applicable for full cash-out refinances.

12. How do I apply for the Community Second Mortgage Program?

To apply for the program, you should contact a mortgage lender who participates in the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program. They can guide you through the application process and help determine your eligibility.

13. What happens if I default on my loan?

In the event of a default, the first mortgage lender has priority over the second mortgage lender. This means the first mortgage lender will be paid first if the property is sold to cover the debt.

14. Where can I get more information or personalized advice?

For more information or personalized advice, it’s recommended to speak with a mortgage professional who is familiar with the Fannie Mae Community Second Mortgage Program. You can also book an appointment with our team for a detailed consultation.

I'm Wade Betz, your go-to mortgage broker in Dallas, Texas, with a focus on VA loans. My goal is to make home financing seamless and worry-free for our veterans. If you're looking for dependable and knowledgeable support with VA loans, I'm here to help.

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