What Forbearance Looks Like for Fannie and Freddie Borrowers

As a result of COVID-19’s impact on the economy, many multifamily owners are facing a number of challenges. Owners are concerned if their tenants will be able to pay rent, and in turn, if they will be able to make timely mortgage payments—a potentially disastrous chain reaction. For those multifamily projects financed with a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan, guidelines have been announced in accordance with the coronavirus relief bill for those properties experiencing hardships as a result of COVID-19.

Sharon Briskman  Photo courtesy of Greystone

One scenario emerging as an option for some multifamily borrowers is forbearance. This is a reprieve from monthly principal and interest payments granted by a lender to borrowers that demonstrate hardship resulting from COVID-19, in order to avoid default. This is an accommodation to help preserve the borrower’s standing under extreme circumstances and when there is a proven financial hardship.

What are the Requirements of Loan Forbearance?

The requirements for the granting of forbearance vary, but borrowers of multifamily Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans that are in good standing may qualify for up to a 90-day period during which the borrower is not obligated to pay its monthly debt service principal and interest payments. Additionally, during this time, late fees may be waived. At the end of the approved forbearance period, the forborne amounts are required to be paid, but over an extended period of up to 12 months. As of now, the period can begin between April 1, 2020, and Aug. 31, 2020, for Fannie Mae loans and between April 1, 2020, and the earlier of either the end date of the National Emergency or Dec. 31, 2020, for Freddie Mac loans.

Not all borrowers will qualify for forbearance under the requirements put forth by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, however, and the borrower must request forbearance from its lender, or mortgage loan servicer, and demonstrate that the property is experiencing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19. For example, Freddie Mac will not entertain a request for forbearance unless the loan was current prior to forbearance, did not have any outstanding fees due, and the taxes, insurance and water/sewer bills are current and paid, as well.

Consider the Strict Conditions Before Applying for Forbearance

To apply and ultimately be approved for a forbearance agreement, a borrower will need to provide, among other things, a “hardship letter” that explains the challenges in making timely mortgage payments. Further, a current rent roll showing units that have vacated, or are not expected to pay rent, due to the pandemic is required. Greystone’s forbearance FAQ outlines more of the required materials, as well as some of the ongoing reporting that may be required (in some cases, a delinquency report, and in others, providing monthly financial statements during the forbearance period).

Entering into a forbearance agreement with Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac comes with strict terms and conditions—including restrictions on eviction proceedings—and the terms of forbearance are typically nonnegotiable.

The pandemic situation, and its impact on multifamily housing, is still evolving, but emergency measures such as forbearance can offer temporary relief for multifamily owners and investors. 

The agencies are constantly evolving and updating their requirements, so please review our FAQ for the latest on requirements for requesting forbearance with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Sharon Briskman is the executive vice president of Servicing and Asset Management for Greystone.