Fannie Mae RefiNow

At a high level, RefiNow would be a better refinance option for borrowers with higher DTIs and income up to 100% of the applicable area median income (AMI) limit who have limited funds to pay for upfront appraisal costs. A detailed comparison between HomeReady and RefiNow can be found here on the Fannie Mae website.

Mortgage insurance coverage for RefiNow loans is not restricted to the current mortgage insurer on the existing loan. However, DU will identify the insurer that is currently providing coverage. Lenders should consult their mortgage insurer to determine their eligibility guidelines for RefiNow loans. The appropriate level of mortgage insurance must be obtained in accordance with B7-1-02, Mortgage Insurance Coverage Requirements of the Selling Guide. Standard coverage and minimum coverage (with corresponding LLPAs) are both permissible subject to Selling Guide requirements.

Fannie Mae will provide a $500 credit to the lender for RefiNow loans when an appraisal was obtained, regardless of the exact cost of the appraisal. The $500 must be passed to the borrower in full. Whole loans will receive the $500 credit immediately upon sale to Fannie Mae, while loans delivered into an MBS pool will receive the credit as part of a monthly settlement of proceeds.

Fannie Mae requires that the full $500 benefit be provided to the borrower but does not specify how that must be operationalized provided the lender complies with regulatory requirements.

No, RefiNow is a standalone offering and may not be combined with HomeReady. A summary comparison of HomeReady and RefiNow can be found here on the Fannie Mae website.