Affordable housing

Majority of Consumers Say They Would Consider Purchasing a Manufactured Home

Two years of significant home price appreciation has resulted in national concerns about housing affordability. However, in new research by Freddie Mac, 6-in-10 individuals say they would consider purchasing the type of dwelling that has become the largest source of unsubsidized affordable housing in the United States: manufactured housing. Get specifics on who is most likely to purchase a manufactured home and why.

Partner Insights from Freddie Mac Single Family
Originations

Down payment aid programs have proliferated, but is anyone using them?

In a market dominated by sky-high home prices, sellers looking to take the path of least resistance may be overlooking DPA borrowers.

By Brad Finkelstein

July 20
Loan Think How lenders can help to alleviate the affordable housing crisis

By leveraging establishing relationships and engaging stakeholders, mortgage companies can play a part in alleviating the home availability and affordability strain, writes the president and CEO of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco.

July 8

Teresa Bryce Bazemore

Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco
Secondary markets

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac should run chattel lending test now: study

The largest affordability crunch seen in years and increased secondary-market options make it more pressing and feasible to pilot financing for the lowest-cost manufactured homes, Urban Institute research suggests.

By Bonnie Sinnock

July 7
Housing markets

Lower housing costs — not jobs — are driving intercity moves

The median prices for the most sought-after metro areas were on average $128,000 lower than in the city the buyer was leaving, Freddie Mac's study of Loan Product Advisor data found.

By Brad Finkelstein

June 27
Could 3D-printed Homes Become an Attractive, Affordable Option for Homebuyers?

Developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics may be a ray of hope for current housing challenges, including inventory, affordability and materials and labor shortages, while promoting sustainability and equity. This article reviews the potential benefits and barriers of 3D-printed homes, and what needs to happen for them to become a viable option in the housing ecosystem.

Partner Insights from Freddie Mac Single Family
Could More Inclusive Zoning for Manufactured Homes Help Address the Current Housing Supply Gap?

Manufactured housing has been on the decline since its peak in 1996. While several factors are driving this downtrend trend, a portion of the fall-off is related to local, state and homeowner association regulations. This article looks at how the greater acceptance of manufactured homes could result in a bevy of benefits, from chipping away at the housing deficit to shrinking the affordability gap. Read More.

Partner Insights from Freddie Mac Single Family
BankThink ABA misses the mark in its defense of the Federal Home Loan banks

The system may be good for the banks that own it, but it is not meeting its public mission.

May 30

Cornelius Hurley
Manufactured Housing is Big in Japan—Can Their Cool, Hip Take Work in the U.S.?

Manufactured houses, also referred to as “prefab,” “modular” or “factory-built,” are a popular choice in Japan – thanks to their attractive design, advanced technology and trendy branding. This article looks at how some U.S. manufactured housing companies are evolving and improving manufactured home features in hopes of making this housing option all-the-rage in the States too. Read More.

Partner Insights from Freddie Mac Single Family
How Vacant and Distressed Homes Can Help Meet the Demand For Entry-Level Housing

The shortage of new construction homes coupled with high demand for existing supply has driven up the prices of affordable properties, making homeownership difficult for borrowers below the Area Median Income (AMI). This article explores how getting vacant and distressed properties back on the market can help address this challenge. Learn More.

Partner Insights from Freddie Mac Single Family