NAHB Now's Latest Posts
FAQs for Those Seeking Small Business Loans Under New Stimulus Law
NAHB has put together FAQs for small business owners, self-employed individuals, sole proprietors, and 501(c)(3) businesses who are interested in obtaining small business loans under the newly-enacted CARES Act.
Fannie, Freddie to Allow Desktop Appraisals on New Construction Loans
The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced several loan processing flexibilities for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, including allowing desktop appraisals on new construction loans.
FHA Announces Policy Updates Related to COVID-19
The Federal Housing Administration has announced new guidance for property appraisals and other policy updates due to the COVID-19 national emergency declared by the president.
DHS Designation for Home Building as ‘Essential’ is Not Mandatory
The Department of Homeland Security designation of residential construction as an “Essential Infrastructure Business” is good news for the housing industry. However, the designation is advisory in nature and should not be considered a federal directive or standard. To help members determine where builders can stay on the job, NAHB has created a map detailing which states and municipalities have enacted orders that may impact builders.
FEMA Extends Grace Period for Flood Insurance Renewal Premiums
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be extending the grace period to renew flood insurance policies under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) from 30 days to 120 days.
DHS Designates Residential Construction as ‘Essential Infrastructure Business’
In a critical win for NAHB and the residential construction sector, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today designated construction of single-family and multifamily housing as an “Essential Infrastructure Business.”
VA Updates Lender, Valuation Guidance for Borrowers Affected by COVID-19
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs today issued a circular that provides guidance for VA home loan borrowers affected by COVID-19 and describes temporary measures regarding loan origination, closing and guaranty. The agency also issued a separate notice regarding valuation practices during the pandemic.
EPA Releases Plan to Reduce TSCA Fees Burden
In a key win for NAHB, the Environmental Protection Agency has made a significant announcement affecting how the housing community will be impacted by implementation of the Toxic Substance Control ACT (TSCA) Fees Rule.
NAHB Chief Economist Provides Economic Update on Impact of COVID-19
NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz examines incoming data showing the negative effects of the sudden stop for the economy. NAHB is forecasting significant declines for second quarter GDP, followed by an additional drop in the third quarter and a rebound in the final quarter of 2020.
90 Organizations Urge DHS to Designate Residential Construction ‘Essential’
In an effort spearheaded by NAHB, 90 companies and organizations today called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to designate construction of single-family and multifamily housing as an “Essential Infrastructure Business.”
