Changes in short sale policy announced

  • Published
  • By Capt. Kristen Tateishi,
  • 23d Wing Legal Office
In June, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced changes to short sale policies that will make it easier for military homeowners with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans to honor their financial commitments when they are required to move as part of their duty.

Effective June 28, 2012, military homeowners who receive permanent change of station (PCS) orders will be eligible to sell their homes in a short sale even if they are current on their mortgage. PCS orders often require quick moves, which can create hardships for military homeowners who are underwater on their mortgages and therefore cannot sell their home without taking a loss. The changes will help prevent military members from defaulting on their mortgage or being unable to afford the cost of two homes.

Service members can check Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac websites to see if their loans are held by them, or service members can call hotlines for military homeowners at 1-877-MIL-4566 or 1-800-FREDDIE.

The Moody Air Force Base Legal Office is committed to ensuring our Airmen are both informed of their rights under this new policy and protected from potential predators. The greatest danger is when Airmen pay third parties to assist in modifying their mortgages for a short sale.

Please schedule an appointment with the 23d Wing Legal Office at 229-257-3414 if you have questions or concerns regarding a short sale on your home or if you think you may be a victim of a mortgage company.