FHFA extends multifamily forbearance thru 9/30

The Federal Housing Finance Agency has announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) will continue to offer COVID-19 forbearance to qualifying multifamily property owners through September 30, 2021, subject to the continued tenant protections FHFA has imposed during the pandemic. This is the third extension of the programs, which were set to expire June 30, 2021.

Property owners with Enterprise-backed multifamily mortgages can enter a new or, if qualified, modified forbearance if they experience a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 emergency. Property owners who enter into a new or modified forbearance agreement must:

• Inform tenants in writing about tenant protections available during the property owner's forbearance and repayment periods; and
• Agree not to evict tenants solely for the nonpayment of rent while the property is in forbearance.

Additional tenant protections apply during the repayment periods. These protections include:

• Giving tenants at least a 30-day notice to vacate;
• Not charging tenants late fees or penalties for nonpayment of rent; and
• Allowing tenant flexibility in the repayment of back-rent over time, and not necessarily in a lump sum.