08/21/2026
Caveat emptor is a Latin phrase that means "let the buyer beware."
WARNING: Exercise caution especially if you are buying a property SUBJECT TO the existing borrowers Low interest Rate DEBT;
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USHUDFHA/bulletins/3dc0946
Under the permanent FHA loss mitigation framework that took effect on October 1, 2025 lenders can CHANGE the existing Note INTEREST rate when executing a permanent loan modification. The FHA "waterfall" does not force a strict "either/or" choice between a rate change and a zero-interest partial claim; instead, servicers apply tools in a structured sequence to achieve target payment relief.
Here is HOW the so called "Waterfall Options" can workout for the struggling borrower;
and How the loan workout Options can work in the Waterfall
*Standalone Partial Claim: For minor or short-term hardships, arrearages can first be put on the sidelines via a zero-interest FHA partial claim without changing the primary note terms.
*Loan Modification with Rate and Term Changes: If a standalone partial claim or term extension (up to 40 years) does not suffice, the FHA loss mitigation waterfall requires re-amortizing the balance and resetting the interest rate to HUD's published CURRENT market interest rate.
*Combination Options: Lenders can combine a rate/term modification with a partial claim deferral (up to 30% of the unpaid principal balance at 0% interest) simultaneously if necessary to hit affordability targets.
FHA Ends the COVID-19 Loss Mitigation Waterfall Office of Housing sent this bulletin at 04/15/2025 12:30 PM EDT FHA INFO 2025-21 April 15, 2025 FHA Ends the Biden-era COVID-19 Loss Mitigation Waterfall Today, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) published Mortgagee Letter (ML) 2025-12, Tightenin...