FHA published an update to the Single Family Housing Policy Handbook (SF Handbook 4000.1).
The update includes revisions to existing guidance, technical edits and the incorporation of changes announced in previous Mortgagee Letters. Key updates include:
- removal of the requirement to review the URL for documents obtained from a website;
- updated guidance to include the use of third party verification vendors for occupancy verification for streamline refinances;
- clarification that the mortgagee must exclude certain co-borrowers from the loss mitigation review requirements to comply with state, local, and federal servicing laws; and
- clarification with respect to the timing of reimbursement of property preservation and protection costs.
Revisions related to the incorporation of a Mortgagee Letter are effective on the date announced in the Mortgagee Letter. Revisions to Section II.A of the Handbook (including revisions related to the use of third party verification vendors for occupancy verification and the removal of the requirement to review the URL for documents obtained from a website) are effective for case numbers assigned on or after September 26, 2022 (lenders may, however, implement the changes immediately). All other changes must be implemented no later than September 26, 2022 (lenders and servicers may, however, implement the changes immediately).
Click to view the FHA Info #2022-68: https://www.tenaco.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/FHA-Info-2022-68.pdf
