Mortgage Fee Changes: Separating Fact from Fiction

Dated: May 5 2023

Views: 139

As a real estate agent, I understand that the recent changes in Loan-Level Price Adjustments (LLPAs) announced by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have caused some concerns and misunderstandings among potential homebuyers. However, I want to reassure you that most people will not see a significant change in their mortgage costs.

LLPAs have been in place since 2008, and over the years, there have been multiple changes. The recent changes are no different. According to an analysis by Experian, the latest changes will result in higher fees for some consumers doing cash-out refinances and those with high-balance adjustable-rate mortgages. However, most borrowers who put down between 5% and 25% and have credit scores greater than 680 will still pay less overall than lower credit borrowers.

Furthermore, the 2022 changes that reduced or eliminated fees for first-time homebuyers and those with low or moderate incomes will become permanent. And many borrowers with lower credit scores but strong down payments will see reduced fees. So, while some borrowers may see a slight increase in fees, others will see a reduction.

Critics have said that the changes penalize those who have maintained high credit scores. However, FHFA Director Sandra Thompson indicated that there was no uniform targeting of a borrower with a higher LTV for a lower. NAR has consistently said that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have the ability to lower fees for lower-wealth borrowers without increasing fees for those with greater wealth. 

In conclusion, while some borrowers may see a slight increase in fees, most people will not see a significant change in their mortgage costs. As a real estate agent, my goal is to help you navigate the complexities of the homebuying process, and I am always here to answer any questions you may have about mortgage fees or any other aspect of buying a home.

Blog author image

Brian T. Wolf

My mission is to create a remarkable experience for my clients as we buy and sell homes in the Chicago metropolitan area and specifically the Northwest Villages. At the core of my work are my values.....

Latest Blog Posts

Update: Navigating Changing Mortgage Rates in Northern Illinois

As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, one prominent shift that homeowners in Northern Illinois are facing is the end of the era of historically low interest rates. Rates that once

Read More

Mortgage Fee Changes: Separating Fact from Fiction

As a real estate agent, I understand that the recent changes in Loan-Level Price Adjustments (LLPAs) announced by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have caused some concerns and misunderstandings among

Read More

The Pros and Cons of Selling Your Home in Spring

Spring is one of the most popular times of the year to sell a home. As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, many people start thinking about moving. However, is spring really the

Read More