New rule places fees on home buyers with good credit

by ian

 

A new mortgage rule that favors lower credit scores over higher credit scores took effect today, triggering outrage.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced an overhaul to their fee system back in January. The new rule raises fees on those with higher credit scores. At the same time, it lowers the amounts that people with poorer credit scores.

For example, somebody with fair credit between 640 and 659 may now pay $3,000 compared to $5,000 under the previous structure. Meanwhile, somebody with very good credit, between the scores of 740 and 759, may pay twice as much.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency says the change is to “advance the mission of facilitating equitable and sustainable access to homeownership.”

But experts warn the rule will drive up the price of starter homes even more. Critics call it a “bailout” that forces responsible consumers to subsidize irresponsible ones.

Meanwhile, 40 outraged Republican congressmen are urging the FHFA to reconsider the modern-day Robin Hood rule.

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