Small Multifamily Building Risk Share Initiative: Request for Comment, 66043-66056 [2013-26328]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 213 (Monday, November 4, 2013)]
[Notices]
[Pages 66043-66056]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-26328]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

[Docket No FR-5728-N-01]


Small Multifamily Building Risk Share Initiative: Request for 
Comment

AGENCY: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal Housing 
Commissioner, HUD.

ACTION: Notice.

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SUMMARY: This Notice announces HUD's intent to implement an initiative 
under the Risk Sharing Program, authorized by section 542(b) of the 
Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, directed to facilitating 
the financing of small multifamily properties. Through this Notice, HUD 
solicits comment on the described initiative. Following receipt of 
comments and revisions, if any, as a result of those comments, HUD will 
solicit applications from high capacity Community Development Finance 
Institutions (CDFIs) and other mission-motivated financial institutions 
to participate in HUD's Risk Sharing Program.

DATES: Comment Due Date: January 3, 2014.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments regarding 
this notice to the Regulations Division, Office of General Counsel, 
Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street SW., Room 
10276, Washington, DC 20410-0500. Communications must refer to the 
above docket number and title. There are two methods for submitting 
public comments. All submissions must refer to the above docket number 
and title.
    1. Submission of Comments by Mail. Comments may be submitted by 
mail to the Regulations Division, Office of General Counsel, Department 
of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street SW., Room 10276, 
Washington, DC 20410-0500.
    2. Electronic Submission of Comments. Interested persons may submit 
comments electronically through the Federal eRulemaking Portal at 
www.regulations.gov. HUD strongly encourages commenters to submit 
comments electronically. Electronic submission of comments allows the 
commenter maximum time to prepare and submit a comment, ensures timely 
receipt by HUD, and enables HUD to make them immediately available to 
the public. Comments submitted electronically through the 
www.regulations.gov Web site can be viewed by other commenters and 
interested members of the public. Commenters should follow the 
instructions provided on that site to submit comments electronically.

    Note: To receive consideration as public comments, comments must 
be submitted through one of the two methods specified above. Again, 
all submissions must refer to the docket number and title of this 
document.

    No Facsimile Comments. Facsimile (FAX) comments are not acceptable.
    Public Inspection of Public Comments. All properly submitted 
comments and communications submitted to HUD will be available for 
public inspection and copying between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., weekdays, at 
the above address. Due to security measures at the HUD Headquarters 
building, an appointment to review the public comments must be 
scheduled in advance by calling the Regulations Division at 202-708-
3055 (this is not a toll-free number). Individuals with speech or 
hearing impairments may access this number via TTY by calling the 
Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339. Copies of all comments submitted 
are available for inspection and downloading at www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lynn Wehrli, Office of Multifamily 
Development, Office of Housing, Department of Housing and Urban 
Development, 451 7th Street SW., Room 6156, Washington, DC 20410; 
telephone number (202) 402-5210 (this is not a toll-free number). 
Persons with hearing or speech impairments may access this number 
through TTY by calling the toll-free Federal Relay Service at 800-877-
8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Introduction

    The purpose of this Notice is to invite certain mission-oriented 
lenders (Applicants) to comment on the section 542(b) Risk Share 
Program initiative described in this Notice, and to participate in the 
proposed initiative as Qualified Participating Entities (QPEs) to 
increase the flow of credit to small multifamily properties and to 
demonstrate the effectiveness of providing Federal credit enhancement 
for refinancing and rehabilitation of small multifamily housing. Under 
this initiative, Applicants qualified as QPEs and relying on a 50 
percent Risk Share arrangement with HUD, will be able to underwrite, 
originate, and service loans that (1) are on properties of 5-49 units, 
or (2) do not exceed the amount of $3,000,000.

A. Proposed Statutory Changes

    In the President's Fiscal Year 2014 Budget request to the United 
States Congress, statutory changes to section 542(b) of the Housing and 
Community Development Act of 1992 (Section 542(b)) were requested that 
would, through loans originated by lenders that have demonstrated 
experience in affordable housing lending, remove affordability 
restrictions currently required under Section 542(b) in order to reduce 
the burden on owners who access this capital in order to provide 
affordable housing in their communities. The language would also 
authorize Ginnie Mae to securitize loans on small buildings made under 
Section 542(b). This change would significantly enhance the impact and 
utility of this initiative. If granted this authority by the Congress, 
HUD would invite Applicants that engage in Risk Sharing under the 
authority of this Notice to modify their agreements to take advantage 
of such new authority. In addition, HUD would implement a broader Small 
Building Risk Share Initiative through publication of regulations and/
or guidance.

B. Program Description

    Qualified CDFIs and other mission-driven lenders approved to 
participate in the initiative would be authorized to originate, 
underwrite, and service loans for HUD multifamily mortgage insurance 
for project refinancing, rehabilitation, substantial rehabilitation, or 
equity take outs, but exclude new construction. The cornerstone of the 
Risk Share Program is that the lender shares the insurance risk with 
FHA, and since lenders will cover 50 percent of the risk of loss under 
the Small Buildings initiative, it provides participants significantly 
more flexibility with respect to underwriting terms, parameters, and 
ongoing compliance than is found in other FHA insurance programs, such 
as the Multifamily Accelerated Program (MAP).
    Upon presentation of appropriate certifications, HUD will endorse 
such loans for full mortgage insurance. Applicants will be responsible 
for the full range of loan management, servicing, and property 
disposition activities.

[[Page 66044]]

    Through a Risk Sharing Agreement, QPEs may contract to assume 50 
percent of the risk on each loan they underwrite. In turn, HUD will 
commit to pay 100 percent of the outstanding principal mortgage balance 
upon default of the loans and filing of a claim. The loss, if any, will 
be determined at a later date, and HUD and the Applicant will share 
such loss in accordance with the amount of risk assumed by each under 
the risk sharing agreement.
    This document contains information on application requirements, the 
application process, the timeframe for decisions on applications, and 
additional program features. The pricing of FHA insurance for the Small 
Buildings Risk Share initiative remains to be determined, but will be 
provided in the Final Notice.

II. Background

    A preliminary analysis of 2012 Rental Housing Finance Survey (RHFS) 
data (forthcoming) indicates there are approximately 587,000 small (5-
49 units) multifamily rental properties in the United States, 
constituting more than one-third of occupied rental units across the 
nation (2011 American Community Survey). Small multifamily properties 
tend to be older, located in low-income neighborhoods, and to have 
lower median rents and higher shares of affordable units than larger 
multifamily rental properties. The RHFS also suggests that 58 percent 
of the landlords for this stock are individuals, households and estates 
compared to 8 percent of larger properties. The RHFS also suggests that 
85 percent of large multifamily properties are mortgaged, while just 62 
percent of small multifamily properties are mortgaged.
    Worst case housing needs continue to grow at record rates. The 
number of renter households with worst case needs increased to 8.48 
million in 2011, up from a previous high of 7.10 million in 2009. The 
high rate of growth in worst case needs observed in 2009 continues 
unabated. The number of worst case needs has grown by 2.57 million 
households since 2007--a striking 43.5 percent increase. The national 
scarcity of affordable units available for the renters who need them 
most continued to worsen. The number of affordable and available rental 
units decreased from 81 to 65 units per 100 very low-income renters and 
from 44 to 36 units per 100 extremely low-income renters between 2003 
and 2011.
    Long-term fixed rate mortgages made through this initiative will be 
especially valuable for smaller properties because such properties tend 
to command modest rents and owners are often unable to raise rents to 
cover upward interest rate adjustments without causing vacancies. 
Additionally, the mom and pop ownership of this inventory is facing 
even more constraints in accessing financing in recent years due to 
increasingly high credit standards and diminished lending in this area, 
following a significant reduction in community and regional banks in 
the wake of the 2008 recession.
    HUD has chosen to limit participation to mission-driven nonprofit 
and public lenders, or consortia of for-profit private lenders which 
form a joint venture or similar formal arrangement with, and under the 
control of a mission-driven nonprofit or public lender, for the purpose 
of loan origination and servicing of affordable housing under this Risk 
Share Program initiative. In part, this reflects HUD's desire to 
balance Congressional intent for Section 542(b) to achieve a public 
purpose of financing affordable housing. CDFIs are private institutions 
that provide financial services dedicated to economic development and 
community revitalization in underserved markets. Frequently, CDFIs 
serve communities that are underserved by conventional financial 
institutions and may offer products and services that are not available 
from conventional financial institutions. Although CDFIs are generally 
small in asset size, studies have demonstrated that CDFIs can have 
meaningful positive effects on the low- and-moderate income communities 
that they serve.
    The initiative being implemented by this Notice can serve to 
encourage eligible CDFIs to move into this lending market. One common 
problem facing non-depository CDFIs is that they do not have access to 
long-term funding, which may limit their ability to provide housing 
finance to their communities. Nonprofit or quasi-public loan funds and 
consortia can qualify as participating entities by demonstrating that 
they meet minimum criteria similar to those established in the 2010 
Capital Magnets Fund Program including their designation as a non-
profit or not-for-profit entity or public or quasi-public benefit 
corporation under the laws of the organization's State of formation, 
and their exemption from Federal income taxation pursuant to the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Additionally they must demonstrate that 
at least 33 percent of their resources (i.e., budget or staffing) are 
dedicated to the Development and/or management of Affordable Housing.

III. Authority

    Section 542(b) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 
1992, as amended by Section 307 of the Multifamily Housing Property 
Disposition Reform Act of 1994, authorizes HUD to enter into risk 
sharing agreements with Qualified Participating Entities (QPEs). QPE is 
broadly defined in Section 542(b) to allow HUD to enter into agreements 
with a range of lenders.
    As noted earlier, HUD is seeking comment on the proposed Initiative 
for a period of 60 days, prior to implementation. After the close of 
the public comment period, and following full consideration of comments 
submitted, HUD will issue another notice (the Final Notice) that will 
advise of the implementation of the Initiative and any changes made to 
the Initiative in response to public comment or further consideration 
of HUD of how the Initiative should be structured or implemented.

IV. Application Requirements

    Applications submitted for participation in the Risk Share Program 
should address the following three components for qualification: 
Mission, Financial Capacity, and Application Narrative, as further 
described below. In addition they must include the required exhibits 
listed in Part D of this section.

A. Mission

    An organization must demonstrate its suitability for the initiative 
by providing evidence of meeting any one of the following three 
organizational type descriptions in parts A.1. through A.3. below, and 
making the certification in part A.4. below.
    1. Be currently certified as a CDFI by the CDFI Fund \1\; or
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    \1\ In order to be certified as a CDFI, an institution must 
satisfy several statutory and regulatory requirements, including 
that it have a primary mission of promoting community development, 
that it provides development services in conjunction with equity 
investments or loans, and that it serves certain targeted areas or 
populations. The CDFI certification requirements are more fully 
elaborated in the statute and the CDFI program regulations. See 12 
U.S.C. 4702(5) and 12 CFR 1805.201. The CDFI Fund does not regulate 
the CDFIs that it certifies, nor does it evaluate their safety and 
soundness, either during the certification process or the awards 
application process. Thus, certification by the CDFI Fund does not 
represent a determination that a CDFI is in sound financial 
condition, although it does represent a determination by the CDFI 
fund that the entity satisfies the statutory requirements of being a 
CDFI.
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    2. Meet minimum criteria similar to those established in the 2010 
Capital Magnets Fund Initiative promulgated by the US Treasury; 
specifically to be a Nonprofit, Public, or Quasi-Public loan

[[Page 66045]]

fund having as one of its principal purposes the development or 
management of affordable housing. The organization must be able to 
demonstrate that:
    a. It has been designated as a non-profit or not-for-profit entity 
or public or quasi-public benefit corporation under the laws of the 
organization's State of formation;
    b. It is exempt from Federal income taxation pursuant to the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
    c. Its incorporating documents, mission statements or other board-
approved documents provide evidence that the organization is involved 
in the development or management of Affordable Housing; and
    d. At least 33 percent of its resources (i.e., budget or staffing) 
are dedicated to the development and/or management of affordable 
housing. The Applicant entity must meet the eligibility requirements on 
its own behalf. While it may, for example, look to the activities of 
subsidiary entities that it controls, it may not rely upon the track 
record of any other affiliated entities, including its parent company; 
or
    3. Be a joint venture or similar formal arrangement between two or 
more for-profit private lenders and either a CDFI or Nonprofit, Public, 
or Quasi-Public entity that meets the criteria in paragraphs 1 or 2 
above. The consortium's activities must be limited to loan origination 
and servicing of affordable housing under this Risk Share Program, and 
be controlled by the non-profit or public purpose partner entity. The 
consortium's organizational documents, financial structure, oversight, 
and business plan, detailing management of identities of interest and 
internal conflict resolution, must be approved by HUD prior to 
participation in the initiative; and
    4. Certify that:
    a. The Department of Justice has not brought a civil rights suit 
against the applicant, and no such suit is pending;
    b. There has not been an adjudication of civil rights violation in 
a civil action brought against the applicant by a private individual, 
unless it is operating in compliance with a court order, or in 
compliance with a HUD-approved compliance agreement designed to correct 
the areas of noncompliance; and
    c. There are no outstanding findings of noncompliance with civil 
rights statutes, Executive Orders, or regulations as a result of formal 
administrative proceedings, or the Secretary has not issued a charge 
against the applicant under the Fair Housing Act, unless the applicant 
is operating in compliance with a consent order or compliance other 
agreement with HUD designed to correct the areas of compliance.

B. Financial Capacity

    1. Overall Financial Capacity. Applicants must be able to 
effectively cover their share of the transaction risk in the event of a 
claim. They must also be able to provide HUD with confidence that they 
have a successful track record of loan underwriting and loan 
performance, because the 542(b) program delegates underwriting and 
monitoring activities to the QPE.
    All lenders under this initiative must be approved as FHA lenders. 
An FHA Lender Approval Application Form 92001-A can be downloaded from 
HUD's Web site at: https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/huddoc?id=92001-a.pdf. To become an FHA lender, applicants must have a 
minimum adjusted net worth of $1,000,000 and submit audited financials 
to verify compliance. The officer who will be in charge of the FHA 
operation must have at least 3 years of experience in FHA mortgage 
operations and cannot have concurrent outside or self-employment in the 
mortgage or real estate industry or related field. Additional 
requirements can be found on HUD's Web site: https://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/housing/sfh/lender/lendappr.
    2. Minimum Financial Capacity Standards. In addition, all lenders 
under this initiative must meet certain minimum financial capacity 
standards similar to those promulgated by the Federal Housing Finance 
Agency (FHFA) in 2010 as conditions for CDFIs to become members of the 
Federal Home Loan Banking System, specifically net asset ratio, 
earnings, loan loss reserves, and liquidity. Applicants must 
demonstrate that they have each of the following:
    a. A 20 percent net asset ratio. (Any Applicant not meeting the 20 
percent requirement can provide HUD with additional information 
demonstrating why, in the context of the business conducted by that 
entity, its net asset ratio is consistent with the concept of operating 
in a sound financial condition. This may include a discussion of 
temporarily and permanently restricted capital and its impact on 
financial condition.)
    b. Average annual income in excess of average annual expenses for 
the past three calendar years.
    c. A minimum 30 percent ratio of loan loss reserves to loans and 
leases 90 days or more delinquent, including loans sold with full 
recourse. (Any Applicant not meeting the 30 percent requirement can 
provide HUD with additional information demonstrating why, in the 
context of the business conducted by that entity, its level of loan 
loss reserves is consistent with the concept of operating in a sound 
financial condition).
    d. An operating liquidity ratio of at least 1.0 for the four most 
recent quarters and for one or both of the two preceding years, where 
the numerator of the ratio includes unrestricted cash and cash 
equivalents and the denominator of the ratio is the current liabilities 
for the period in question.
    3. Demonstration of Financial Capacity. Applicants can demonstrate 
their financial capacity according to the requirements above by 
providing:
    a. A complete FHA Lender Application, and
    b. A Certification that there have been no enforcement actions, no 
criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings, and no liabilities, 
lawsuits, or judgments that would materially hinder financial 
feasibility.
    4. Certification of Capacity:
    a. For CDFIs that are members of Federal Home Loan Banks, a letter 
from the Federal Home Loan Bank confirming membership.
    b. For all other applicants, a description of the amount and 
sources of funds the Applicant has available to support multifamily 
housing programs. If funds are earmarked for specific projects or 
programs, or otherwise have a contingent liability, indicate amounts 
and purposes of those liabilities. Indicate how much of the funds are 
unrestricted, how those funds are governed (e.g., approval of the board 
of directors or state or local government) and the eligible uses of 
these funds. Identify any funding sources available to supplement 
existing projects that are not achieving break-even status. Indicate 
the overall percentage of total unrestricted funds to total debt and 
the percentage of liquid unrestricted funds to total mortgages 
outstanding. Describe the collateral the Applicant will use if it does 
not have the authority to pledge its full faith and credit to back 
debentures issued against claims. Describe the circumstances or 
conditions under which other governmental entities or public bodies 
have access to the Applicant's funds. Describe the mechanism for 
disposing/resolving audit findings. Identify any periodic reports 
required for the board of directors and/or other organizational 
oversight body.

C. Application Narrative

    The application must include:

[[Page 66046]]

    1. Narrative. Narrative of no more than 15 pages addressing the 
items described below. Applicants should be careful to craft responses 
so that they clearly address the issues and the minimum financial 
capacity standards set forth above (pages 10-11). Responses should 
summarize the detailed information that may be found in the applicant's 
operating, administrative and quality control manuals.
    a. Organizational History. Describe the history and organizational 
background of the Applicant. Indicate how long it has been in 
existence, its mission, when it began to finance multifamily loans, and 
an overall description of its multifamily lending activities.
    b. Multifamily Portfolio Information. Indicate how many multifamily 
loans on small properties have been financed within the past 10 years 
(dates specified), by year. Include the number and type of projects 
(family, assisted living, cooperative, etc.) and units in each, type of 
loan (first mortgage, second, gap loan, credit support, new 
construction, rehabilitation, refinancing with or without repairs, 
etc.) and original mortgage amounts, outstanding principal balances, 
status (current, in default, foreclosed, in workout) and location 
(urban/suburban/rural).
    Describe the types of residents served in your projects (family, 
elderly, etc.). Indicate the median income within the Applicant's 
operating jurisdiction, the percent of units occupied by households 
with incomes below 80 percent and 50 percent of that median, and the 
average size of families served in projects not targeted to the 
elderly.
    c. Other Portfolio Information. Provide a summary of the 
organization's portfolio of properties other than the multifamily 
properties described above, that have been financed within the past 10 
years (dates specified), by year. Include the number and types of 
projects, type of loan (first mortgage, second, gap loan, credit 
support, new construction, rehabilitation, refinancing with or without 
repairs, etc.) and original mortgage amounts, outstanding principal 
balances, status (current, in default, foreclosed, in workout) and 
location (urban/suburban/rural).
    d. Contingent Liabilities. Provide a list disclosing all contingent 
liabilities in the organization's book of business.
    e. Staff Capacity. Identify the skills (general background and 
years of experience in that skill and with the Applicant) of personnel 
currently employed by the Applicant who will have key responsibilities 
under the pilot initiative. [Do not attach resumes.] Include in-house 
loan processing, loan management and technical staff (e.g., architects, 
engineers, substantial rehabilitation inspectors, cost analysts, 
mortgage credit analysts, appraisers, market analysts, loan management, 
servicing and property disposition personnel), technical review 
personnel, the person(s) responsible for making overall underwriting 
decisions (the chief underwriter) and the person responsible for 
overall loan management, servicing and disposition, including workouts.
    Indicate how long this staff capacity has existed in the 
Applicant's organization and the amount of attrition and turnover 
during the past two years, especially any turnover in key management 
positions.
    If any of the above mentioned in-house activity or other loan 
processing or management functions are performed by contract personnel, 
provide the Applicant's qualification requirements for such personnel, 
procedures followed by the Applicant for monitoring performance of, and 
for reviewing and evaluating work products of, contract personnel, and 
the experience of the Applicant personnel responsible for the 
monitoring, review and evaluation of contract services.
    Describe the counsel on staff or retained by the Applicant who is 
experienced in real estate transactions, bankruptcy, litigation and 
foreclosure to conduct mortgage loan closings, assist in the 
preparation of endorsement packages, and provide legal services in 
dealing with underwriting and servicing matters requiring legal advice 
or action.
    f. Technical Capacity.
    i. Architect, Engineering and Cost. Describe the A&E and Cost 
services the Applicant provides in the development of plans and 
specifications and the role it plays in reviewing the final plans and 
specifications submitted for their projects. Describe the depth of 
review and the approach to resolving concerns with respect to the 
documents.
    Describe any substantial rehabilitation/repair inspection 
procedures and requirements for project completion and guarantee/
warrantee/latent defect inspections. For loans involving substantial 
rehabilitation advances, describe the process and criteria for 
releasing advances.
    If any architectural, engineering or cost functions are contracted 
out, describe the qualification and experience requirements for 
contractors in each skill. Describe the controls in place to ensure 
quality work performance and products whether performed by in-house 
staff or contractors.
    ii. Valuation. Describe the qualifications of the Applicant's 
appraisers and their experience in preparing appraisals for multifamily 
housing, and specifically affordable multifamily housing. Provide the 
qualifications of the individual responsible for reviewing those 
appraisals and his/her authority to make changes in the appraisal 
documents and/or conclusions.
    When any appraisal functions are contracted out, describe the 
qualification and experience requirements for contract appraisers and 
the Applicant's controls in place to assure quality work performance 
and products.
    Describe the controls in place to ensure that all appraisers, in-
house or contract, meet program certification and licensing 
requirements and that all appraisals will be completed pursuant to the 
Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.
    iii. Market Analysis. Applicants must demonstrate that the market 
will support each project undertaken under the Small Buildings Risk 
Sharing initiative. Describe the Applicant's practice for ensuring that 
a market exists for the proposed project. State whether the Applicant 
conducts its own market analyses or relies upon studies submitted by 
the developer/sponsor. Describe who (position) reviews the studies, 
whether prepared by the Applicant's staff or outside professionals, and 
the qualifications of individuals used. State whether market findings 
of the principal analyst can be modified or overridden and by whom. 
Please note whether or not the Applicant's practice deviates from that 
recommended by the National Council of Housing Market Analysts.
    iv. Mortgage Credit. Describe the background, qualification and 
experience in banking, accounting, financing or commercial lending of 
the individual responsible for the financial analysis portion of loan 
processing. Describe how the work of the credit/financial analysis will 
be integrated with that of the overall underwriting analysis and 
whether, and/or under what conditions, the analyst's recommendations or 
findings may be modified. State whether Applicant conducts its own 
mortgage credit analyses or uses contractors and the Applicant's 
controls to ensure quality performance. Describe whether or not the 
conclusions can be modified or overridden and by whom.
    v. Environmental. All projects insured under the 542(b) Risk 
Sharing Programs must comply with the environmental requirements of 24 
CFR Part 50, and it

[[Page 66047]]

is anticipated that QPEs will use consultants to compile environmental 
information and prepare environmental analysis for submission to HUD. 
Describe the qualifications of the environmental consultants 
responsible for supplying environmental information and analysis to 
HUD. Any specializations in subjects such as Historic Preservations 
should be noted. Environmental consultants should have experience in 
preparing Environmental Reports in accordance with Chapter 9 of FHA's 
MAP Guide. The Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) must be 
prepared by an Environmental Professional as described in ASTM E 1527-
05 (or most recent edition.) Describe the controls in place to ensure 
quality work performance and products.
    g. Operating Procedures. Provide a flow chart indicating how 
project-related decisions are made within the Applicant's organization. 
Include the following elements and a brief description of the 
Applicant's operating procedures for each of the following: Loan 
origination, processing, market analysis, underwriting, loan approval, 
closing, cost certification, substantial rehabilitation administration, 
loan management, and loan servicing and property disposition functions. 
Indicate who (position) is responsible for what functions and when 
those functions are performed. Describe the Applicant's internal 
controls to assure compliance with Applicant procedures.
    i. Cost Certification. Describe the Applicant's cost certification 
process and its controls to ensure the absence of fraud and 
misrepresentation. Describe how the Applicant will ensure that costs 
are legitimate and that all project improvements are in place prior to 
accepting the certification. Indicate how the cost certification 
process addresses mortgage excesses and if there are mandatory mortgage 
prepayments.
    ii. Loan Approval. If a loan committee or similar body approves 
loans (including the board of directors), state whether the Committee 
can override the recommendations of the primary underwriter. If so, 
describe under what circumstances and what documentation is required to 
support the override.
    Describe the composition of the Committee. If there is a minimum 
loan amount or other circumstances under which loans are not referred 
to Committee, describe the circumstances and describe that approval 
process. If loans are normally not referred to a Committee, indicate 
who has the approval authority and his/her position/role/function 
within the Applicant. If loans are subject to review and/or approval by 
an entity outside of the Applicant, describe such circumstance and the 
review/approval process.
    iii. Loan Servicing. Describe the Applicant's overall loan 
servicing system including its ability to track loans individually, 
delinquent loan servicing system, procedures to physically inspect and 
evaluate mortgaged properties, and procedures to control and monitor 
borrower bankruptcy proceedings, claims filing procedures, and 
foreclosures. Describe how the Applicant will enforce the regulatory 
agreement. Describe the degree to which portfolio oversight is 
computerized and periodic reports are provided to management, including 
the board of directors. Describe the background and experience of the 
individuals responsible for loan servicing. If contract personnel are 
used, describe the in-house monitoring procedures used to assure 
quality performance by the contractors. Describe the Applicant's 
requirements for project audits and reviews, qualifications for 
auditors and procedures for resolving management review and financial 
audit deficiency findings.
    iv. Loan Monitoring and Workout Procedures. Describe in detail the 
Applicant's loan monitoring protocol including staffing, frequency of 
reporting, report review, borrower contact and follow up and any other 
related activity. State the number of workout plans the Applicant has 
developed over the last 5 years. Describe several (at least 5) cases 
for which the Applicant developed and implemented workout plans for 
defaulted projects during the last 5 years, the circumstances that led 
to the workout, the elements of the workout agreement and how well that 
project is performing against the workout plan. If an Applicant has had 
no experience with workouts, describe how a workout plan would be 
developed and identify any tools or strategies the agency would propose 
to use to establish the elements of a workout agreement.
    v. Investment Policies. Describe how investment decisions are made 
within the Applicant's organization and the level at which they are 
made. Describe the procedures in place to generate and monitor 
financial reports, changes in fund balances, and changes in financial 
position. Describe procedures in place for the prompt notification to 
HUD of negative changes in the Applicant's financial position.

D. Exhibits

    The following are required:
    1. A copy of the Applicant's administrative manual, if available, 
covering its investment policies and overall business and financial 
practices.
    2. A certification from the Applicant that it will at all times 
comply with the financial requirements for this initiative and, where 
applicable, maintain required reserves in a dedicated account in liquid 
funds (i.e. cash, cash equivalents, or readily marketable securities) 
in a financial institution acceptable to HUD.
    3. Copies of audited financial statements for the Applicant's last 
3 fiscal years. Provide a written disclosure of any material changes in 
financial positions that have occurred since the latest financial 
statement. Sample debenture form issued by the Applicant. HUD reserves 
the right to request additional information from the Applicant in order 
to verify that it has satisfied these requirements. Applicant will 
promptly supplement the application with any relevant information that 
comes to Applicant's attention prior to HUD's decision on whether to 
approve or deny the application.

V. Decision on Applications

    For applications received within 120 days of the effective date of 
the Final Notice, HUD will prioritize the review and subsequent 
negotiations with CDFIs that are eligible for and have been approved to 
become members of a Federal Home Loan Bank. HUD shall act on an 
application within approximately 30 days of the date HUD deems the 
application to be complete, either by denying the request based on the 
criteria provided in this Notice, or by approving the Applicant as 
eligible to initiate negotiations with HUD to enter into a Risk Share 
Agreement.

VI. Program Details

A. How the Initiative Works

    Qualified QPEs are authorized to underwrite and process loans. HUD 
will provide full mortgage insurance on affordable multifamily housing 
projects processed by such QPEs under this initiative. By entering into 
Risk Sharing Agreements with HUD, QPEs contract to reimburse HUD for 50 
percent of any loss from defaults that occur while HUD insurance is in 
force.

B. Commitment Authority Availability

    Commitment Authority availability is provided by the Congress on an 
annual basis for all multifamily and health care insured loans, 
including those in the Risk Sharing Program. In rare circumstances it 
may become necessary for HUD to notify Risk Share partners that HUD is 
approaching its

[[Page 66048]]

congressionally determined subsidy volume cap and provide instructions 
for reservation and obligation of subsequent Commitment Authority.

C. Execution of Master Risk Sharing Agreement (RSA)

    Execution by the Applicant of a Risk Sharing Agreement is a 
prerequisite to participation in this initiative, because it governs 
the rights and obligations of HUD and the QPE. The letter from HUD to 
the Applicant approving its participation in the Risk Sharing Program 
will transmit the Master RSA for execution by an authorized 
representative of the Applicant (i.e., one who is so designated in the 
application). The original signed RSA and an electronic copy must be 
returned to HUD Headquarters, Office of Insured Multifamily Housing 
Development. Headquarters will transmit a copy of the executed Master 
RSA to the applicable designated office of the QPE.

D. Program Requirements under the Proposed Small Buildings Risk Sharing 
Initiative

    1. Affordable Housing Requirements. All projects insured under the 
Risk-Sharing Program, including this initiative, must qualify as 
affordable housing.
    a. Affordable housing must meet the standards of the Risk Sharing 
Program, (as is generally consistent with the requirements of the 
Section 42 Low Income Housing Tax Credit program). Specifically, 
projects financed with Risk Share loans must be:
    i. Projects in which 20 percent or more of the units are rent-
restricted and initially occupied by families whose income is 50 
percent or less of the area median income, with adjustments for 
household size; or
    ii. Projects in which 40 percent or more of the units are rent-
restricted and initially occupied by families whose income is 60 
percent or less of the area median income with adjustments for 
household size.
    b. These affordability requirements will be satisfied primarily 
through an affordability restriction placed on title. Rent-restricted 
units will be required to bear rents that are consistent with the above 
requirements and must be occupied by households whose income at the 
time of occupancy makes them eligible for such units. No ongoing income 
recertification of a given renter household will be required after 
initial income eligibility has been established.
    2. Eligible Projects.
    a. Project Size. Projects must consist of 5-49 rental dwelling 
units (including cooperative dwelling units) on one site. The site may 
consist of two or more noncontiguous parcels of land situated so as to 
comprise a readily marketable real estate entity within an area small 
enough to allow convenient and efficient management. These units may be 
detached, semi-detached, row houses, or multifamily structures.
    b. Loan Size. Loans with principal amounts of $3,000,000 or less 
are eligible for projects of any size.
    c. Substantial Rehabilitation. Substantial Rehabilitation is any 
combination of the following work to the existing facilities of a 
project that aggregates to at least 15 percent of project's value after 
the rehabilitation and results in material improvement of the project's 
economic life, livability, marketability, and profitability:
    i. Replacement, alteration and/or modernization of building spaces, 
long-lived building or mechanical system components and/or project 
facilities.
    ii. Substantial rehabilitation may include but not consist solely 
of any combination of minor repairs, replacement of short-lived 
building or mechanical system components, cosmetic work, and/or new 
project additions.
    d. Existing Projects. Financing of existing properties without 
substantial rehabilitation is permitted.
    i. If the property is a QPE-financed loan to be refinanced, and 
such refinancing will result in the preservation of affordable housing, 
refinancing is permissible when (1) project occupancy is not less than 
93 percent, including consideration of rent in arrears, based on the 
average occupancy in the project over the most recent 12 months, and 
(2) the mortgage does not exceed an amount supportable by (a) the lower 
of the unit rents being collected under the rental assistance 
agreement, or (b) the unit rents being collected at unassisted projects 
in the market area that are similar in amenities and location to the 
project for which insurance is being requested.
    e. Single Room Occupancy (SRO). SRO projects are eligible for 
insurance in the Risk Sharing initiative. Units in SRO projects must be 
subject to 30-day or longer leases, but rent payments may be made on a 
weekly basis in SRO projects.
    f. Board and Care/Assisted Living Facilities. Board and Care/
Assisted Living Facilities that provide continuous protective oversight 
and assistance with the activities of daily living for frail elderly or 
other persons needing such assistance may be insured. These facilities 
typically provide room and board as well as oversight and assistance 
and contain a central kitchen and dining area, although meals may be 
catered off site.
    g. Elderly Projects. Projects specifically designed for the use and 
occupancy by elderly families are eligible. An elderly family means any 
household in which the head or spouse is 62 years of age or older, and 
also any single person who is 62 years of age or older.
    3. Ineligible Projects.
    a. Transient Housing or Hotels: Rental for transient or hotel 
purposes. For purposes of this initiative, rental for transient or 
hotel purposes means:
    i. Rental for any period less than 30 days, or
    ii. Any rental, if the occupants of the housing accommodations are 
provided customary hotel services such as room service for food and 
beverages, maid service, furnishing and laundering of linens, and valet 
service.
    b. Projects in Military Impact Areas: If the HUD local Office 
determines that a project is located in a military impact area, the 
project shall not be insured under this program.
    c. Retirement Service Centers: Projects designed for the elderly 
with extensive services and luxury accommodations and that provide for 
central kitchens and dining rooms with food service or mandatory 
services are not permitted in the Risk-Sharing Program.
    d. Nursing Homes or Intermediate Care Facilities: Nursing homes and 
intermediate care facilities licensed and regulated by State or local 
government and providing nursing and medical care are prohibited.
    4. Local Land Use Requirements. Projects insured under this 
initiative must meet applicable zoning and other State/local government 
requirements.
    5. Prohibition on GNMA Securitization. Issuance of Government 
National Mortgage Association (GNMA) mortgage-backed securities is 
currently prohibited for projects insured under the Risk Sharing 
Program.
    6. Appraisal Standards. Certified General Appraisers licensed in 
the State in which the property is located must complete all appraisal 
functions. All appraisal functions must also be completed in accordance 
with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practices.
    7. Environmental Review. All projects insured under the 542(b) 
Risk-Sharing Programs must comply with the environmental requirements 
of 24 CFR Part 50. HUD will conduct the environmental reviews in 
accordance with Chapter 9 of the MAP Guide. QPEs must assume all 
responsibilities of the Lender under Chapter 9 of the MAP Guide, which 
include making various

[[Page 66049]]

submissions related to contamination and the environmental laws and 
authorities listed at 24 CFR 50.4. The QPE, and the owner and its 
contractors must not commit or expend funds for or undertake any 
activities that would have an adverse environmental impact, limit the 
choice of reasonable alternatives, or prejudice the ultimate decision 
on the proposal until HUD has issued a Firm Approval Letter for the 
project. The Firm Approval Letter will include any special conditions, 
procedures and requirements resulting from the Environmental Review. 
Finally, the QPE must advise HUD of any proposed change in the scope of 
the project or any change in environmental conditions and shall ask HUD 
to conduct a supplemental environmental review for such change.
    8. Labor Standards. Davis Bacon prevailing wage requirements are 
not applicable to the 542(b) Risk Sharing program.
    9. Byrd Amendment (Lobbying). The Byrd Amendment requires 
disclosure by mortgagors of lobbying activities for programs involving 
loan guarantees by the Federal government. Form LLL must be submitted 
with the closing docket required in paragraph 6-2 so that HUD can 
compile the material under the annual report required by the Byrd 
amendment.
    10. Reinsurance. A QPE may obtain reinsurance for the portion of 
the risk of loss assumed by the QPE subject to the following 
requirements:
    a. Neither HUD's nor the QPE's position shall be subordinated to 
the rights of the reinsurer;
    b. The reinsurance may not be used to reduce any reserve or fund 
balance requirements that are required to be maintained under this 
initiative; and
    c. Such reinsurance does not incur an obligation to the Federal 
Government.
    11. Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity in Housing and 
Employment. The mortgagor must certify to the QPE that, so long as the 
mortgage is insured under the Risk Sharing Program, it will:
    a. Not use tenant selection procedures that discriminate against 
families with children, except in the case of a project that 
constitutes housing for older persons as defined in Section 807(b)(2) 
of the Fair Housing Act (42 U.S.C. 3607(b)(2);
    b. Not discriminate against any family because of the sex of the 
head of household and;
    c. Comply with the Fair Housing Act, as implemented by 24 CFR Part 
100; Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 
as implemented by 28 CFR Part 35; section 3 of the Housing and Urban 
Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701u), as implemented by 24 CFR 
Part 135; the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, as implemented by 12 CFR 
Part 202; Executive Order 11063, as amended, and implemented by 24 CFR 
Part 107; Executive Order 11246, as implemented by 41 CFR Part 60; 
other applicable Federal laws and regulations issued pursuant to these 
authorities; and applicable State and local fair housing and equal 
opportunity laws. In addition, a mortgagor that receives Federal 
financial assistance must also certify to the QPE that, so long as the 
mortgage is insured under this part, it will comply with Title VI of 
the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as implemented by 24 CFR Part 1; the Age 
Discrimination Act of 1975, as implemented by 24 CFR Part 146; and 
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as implemented by 24 CFR 
Part 8.
    Such certification does not preclude HUD, the QPE, or a HUD-
delegated agent from monitoring or reviewing the project's compliance 
with nondiscrimination or equal opportunity requirements including, but 
not limited to, preparing or updating an Affirmative Fair Housing 
Marketing Plan or maintaining records of housing applicant or resident 
race, national origin, or disability status

VII. Firm Approval Letter Processing

A. General

    The QPE will submit as part of its request for issuance of a firm 
approval letter, a request for the HUD-retained reviews and other 
findings to the Multifamily Hub or Program Center with jurisdiction for 
the location of the project, to include:
    1. The QPE's HUD mortgagee number,
    2. A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, Environmental Report, 
and other documentation required by Chapter 9 of the FHA MAP Guide. (A 
Firm Approval Letter may not be conditional on subsequent environmental 
review), and
    3. Sufficient information about the project for the HUD Office to 
conduct the previous participation, intergovernmental and other HUD-
retained reviews.
    Successful completion of the HUD retained reviews results in 
issuance by HUD of a Firm Approval Letter.

B. Processing

    1. Initial Processing
    a. QPE's Mortgagee Number. The FHA mortgagee number is the 
identifier for the QPE in the Federal Housing Administration Subsidiary 
Ledger (FHASL) system, and in the Development Application Processing 
(DAP) System. The Multifamily Hub or Program Center should use the 
mortgagee identification number on all correspondence.
    b. New Application Processing. The Multifamily Hub or Program 
Center is responsible for entering basic project data in the DAP system 
to create a new application and FHA project number when the request for 
Firm Approval Letter is received. (See Chapter 3, Entering and Tracking 
FHA and Risk Sharing Applications, of the DAP User Guide for HUD 
Staff). The QPE will provide detailed information related to the 
project's location, number of units, and other identifying materials 
necessary.
    c. Project Number. The project number is based on the location and 
program identifier (Section of Act Code) and contains the following 
identifying information:
    i. Office Prefix. 3-digit prefix identifies the specific geographic 
location of the project.
    ii. Number Series. Projects insured under Section 542(b) will have 
project numbers beginning at the number 98001 and proceeding to 98999.
    iii. Program identifier. Use either YQE for existing projects, or 
YQR for new substantial rehabilitation as the Section of Act code.
    2. Environmental Review. All projects insured under the 542(b) 
Risk-Sharing Programs must comply with the environmental requirements 
of 24 CFR Part 50. QPEs must make various submissions with the request 
for issuance of a Firm Approval Letter related to contamination and the 
environmental laws and authorities listed at 25 CFR 50.4, in accordance 
with the Lender requirements of Chapter 9 of the MAP Guide. HUD will 
conduct the environmental reviews in accordance with Chapter 9 of the 
MAP Guide. The QPE and the owner and its contractors must not commit or 
expend funds for or undertake any activities that would have an adverse 
environmental impact, limit the choice of reasonable alternatives, or 
prejudice the ultimate decision on the proposal until HUD has issued a 
Firm Approval Letter for the project. A Firm Approval Letter cannot be 
conditioned on subsequent environmental review and approval of the 
property. The Firm Approval Letter shall include any special 
conditions, procedures, and requirements resulting from the 
Environmental Review.
    3. Intergovernmental Review. The QPE is responsible for sending the 
form SF-424 to the appropriate State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) if 
the State has selected the mortgage insurance

[[Page 66050]]

programs for review under the intergovernmental State Review Procedure 
(SRP) and the project proposes insured advances. Substantial 
rehabilitation projects with insured advances are covered only if there 
is (1) A change in land use, (2) an increase in project density, or (3) 
a change from rental housing to cooperative housing. The Catalog of 
Federal Domestic Programs number for the Risk-Sharing Program is 
14.189. Note: Many States do not review insured projects under these 
procedures. If the State has not elected the mortgage insurance 
programs for review, the QPE should submit a statement to that effect. 
If comments are received from the SPOC, the following applies:
    a. When the SRP results in favorable comments or a recommendation 
for approval:
    i. The Office may issue the Firm Approval Letter if all other HUD-
retained review requirements are met.
    ii. The Office must apply the ``non-accommodation'' procedures if, 
for other reasons, the Office will not issue the Firm Approval Letter 
(e.g., adverse environmental review).
    b. When the SRP results in negative comments or a recommendation 
for disapproval:
    i. If the Office agrees with the SRP, it will tell the QPE what 
changes are necessary before the Firm Approval Letter may be issued, or 
that no Firm Approval Letter may be issued.
    ii. If the Office disagrees, paragraph 3 below applies and the 
Office will advise the QPE that the Firm Approval will be held until 
the 15-day ``Non-accommodation'' period ends.
    c. ``Non-accommodation'' of SRP comments. The Office must notify 
the State and provide a 15-day period before the Office may approve and 
issue a Firm Approval Letter, or disapprove a project if:
    i. The Office does not accept an SRP recommendation, or
    ii. The QPE notifies HUD that it elects not to approve the project.
    HUD will notify the QPE at the same time, stating when the 15-day 
period ends and that a Firm Approval Letter may be issued or the 
project rejected after the 15-day period ends. Note: All notifications 
between the QPE and the Multifamily Hub or Program Center must be in 
writing.
    4. Issuance of Firm Approval Letter.
    a. Firm Approval Letter. Upon positive completion of the HUD-
retained reviews, the Multifamily Hub or Program Center will issue a 
Firm Approval Letter.
    i. Contents. The Firm Approval Letter will, among other things, 
identify the risk levels to be assumed by the QPE as 50 percent, and by 
HUD as 50 percent.
    ii. Endorsement upon Completion of Closing Docket. The Firm 
Approval Letter also states that, absent fraud or material 
misrepresentation by the QPE, provided the QPE is in good standing at 
the time of the requested endorsement, and subject to reduction of the 
mortgage amount, if required, HUD will endorse the project mortgage 
upon receipt of the complete closing docket;
    iii. Possible Conditions for Approval. Finally, the Firm Approval 
Letter may contain conditions for approval. The QPE and mortgagor must 
evidence their acceptance of the Firm Approval Letter and any 
conditions by signing and returning the Firm Approval Letter to the 
Multifamily Hub or Program Center.
    iv. Expiration. The Firm Approval Letter will expire after 60 days 
if the project has not reached initial endorsement for insured advances 
projects, final endorsement for existing projects, or start of 
substantial rehabilitation for insurance upon completion projects,
    5. Extension of Firm Approval Letter. The Hub or Program Center may 
extend a Firm Approval Letter upon written request of the QPE with 
supporting documentation.
    i. Transmittal of Addendum to Risk Sharing Agreement (RSA). The 
Multifamily Hub or Program Center will prepare and transmit with the 
Firm Approval Letter, an addendum to the RSA reflecting the insurance 
risk share to be borne by the QPE and HUD, in the amount of 50 percent 
each.
    ii. Required Documentation. In cases where the subsidy layering 
review is not delegated to the Housing Credit Agency and HUD review is 
required, the Firm Approval Letter will require the QPE to submit the 
required documentation for that review before the QPE approves the loan 
under its own procedures if that documentation was not submitted with 
the request for HUD-retained reviews.
    iii. Copy to QPE. The Multifamily Hub or Program Center shall send 
a copy of the Firm Approval Letter to the QPE.
    6. Rejection of Project. The Multifamily Hub or Program Center must 
notify the QPE in writing if the project is not approvable due to 
location in a military impact area or for an adverse environmental 
condition requiring rejection that cannot be mitigated.

VIII. Program Processing

A. QPE Processing, Underwriting, and Substantial Rehabilitation

    The QPE may use its own underwriting standards and loan terms and 
conditions, as disclosed and submitted with its application, to 
underwrite and approve loans without further underwriting by HUD.
    1. QPE Responsibilities. The QPE is responsible for the performance 
of all functions except the HUD-retained functions specified in this 
notice. After acceptance of an application for a loan to be insured 
under this initiative, the QPE must, among other things:
    a. Determine that a market for the project exists, taking into 
consideration any comments from the Hub/PC relative to the potential 
adverse impact the project will have on proposed or existing Federally 
insured and assisted projects in the area;
    b. Establish the maximum insurable mortgage and review plans and 
specifications for compliance with QPE standards;
    c. Determine the acceptability of the proposed mortgagor and 
management agent;
    d. Ensure the project is in compliance with all applicable 
nondiscrimination and equal opportunity laws (see program requirement 
11 under Section VI of this notice);
    e. Make any other determinations necessary to ensure acceptability 
of the proposed project;
    f. Carry out all responsibilities of the Lender in connection with 
HUD's environmental review in accordance with Chapter 9 of the 
Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) Guide; and
    g. Ensure that any required subsidy layering review is completed by 
the applicable Housing Agency or HUD prior to loan approval.
    2. Substantial Rehabilitation Period. The QPE is responsible for 
inspections during substantial rehabilitation, processing and approving 
advances of mortgage proceeds during substantial rehabilitation, review 
and approval of cost certification, and closing of the loan.
    3. Inspections during Substantial Rehabilitation. The QPE must 
inspect projects at such times during substantial rehabilitation as the 
QPE determines. The inspections must be conducted to ensure compliance 
with the contract documents.
    4. Lead-Based Paint. Risk-Sharing projects must comply with the 
lead-based paint requirements in 24 CFR Part 35, specifically subparts 
A, B, G, and R (Lead Disclosure Rule and Lead Safe Housing Rule), as 
applicable, as well as 40 CFR Part 745 Lead: Renovation, Repair, and 
Painting Program. QPEs are responsible for monitoring and for ensuring 
that lead-based paint requirements are followed.

[[Page 66051]]

    5. Insurance of Advances. Periodic advances are permitted in the 
Risk-Sharing Program. In periodic advances cases, progress payments 
approved by the QPE and both an Initial and Final endorsement on the 
mortgage are required.
    a. Advances may only be used for projects involving substantial 
rehabilitation.
    b. In approving advances, the QPE must ensure that the loan is kept 
in balance, and advances are approved only if warranted by substantial 
rehabilitation progress evidenced through QPE inspection, as well as in 
accord with plans, specifications, work write-ups and other contract 
documents. QPEs must also make certain that other mortgageable items 
are supported with proper bills and/or receipts before funds can be 
approved and advanced for insurance.
    6. Insurance upon Completion. In insurance upon completion cases, 
only the permanent loan is insured and a single endorsement is required 
after satisfactory completion of substantial rehabilitation or repairs. 
Existing projects without the need for substantial rehabilitation are 
only insured upon completion.
    a. Substantial rehabilitation. The QPE approval of insurance upon 
completion project must prescribe a designated period during which the 
mortgagor must start substantial rehabilitation. If substantial 
rehabilitation is started as required, the approval will be valid for 
the period estimated by the QPE for substantial rehabilitation and loan 
closing, including any extension approved by the QPE.
    b. Existing projects without substantial rehabilitation. Existing 
projects with or without repairs are insured upon initial closing. QPEs 
may permit noncritical repairs to be completed after endorsement upon 
establishment of escrows acceptable to the QPE. Noncritical repairs are 
those repairs that do not:
    i. endanger the safety and well-being of tenants, visitors and 
passersby,
    ii. adversely affect ingress and egress, or
    iii. prevent the project from reaching sustaining occupancy.
    7. Cost Certification. To ensure that the final amount of insurance 
is supported by certified costs. The mortgagor and general contractor, 
if there is an identity of interest with the mortgagor must execute a 
certificate of actual costs, in a form acceptable to the QPE, when all 
physical improvements are completed to the satisfaction of the QPE.
    a. Auditing. The cost certification provided by the mortgagor must 
be audited by an independent public accountant in accordance with 
requirements established by HUD.
    b. HUD Review. Except for the first trial cases (described at IX.10 
below), HUD will not review cost certifications prior to Final 
Endorsement. Cost certification documents will be looked at as part of 
HUD's periodic, programmatic monitoring of the QPE's Risk Sharing 
activities.
    8. Other Requirements: The mortgagor must furnish:
    a. Assurance of completion in accordance with any requirements of 
the QPE as to form and amount, and
    b. Latent defects escrow or other form of assurance as required by 
the QPE to ensure that latent defects can be remedied within the time 
period required by the QPE.
    9. Recordkeeping. The mortgagor and the substantial rehabilitation 
contractor, if there is an identity of interest with the mortgagor, 
must keep and maintain records of all costs of any substantial 
rehabilitation or other cost items not representing work under the 
general contract and to make available such records for review by the 
QPE or HUD, if requested.
    10. Project Information. QPEs are responsible for providing 
information about Risk Sharing projects to HUD for statistical, 
programmatic, and monitoring purposes. The project information is 
submitted with the closing docket at initial closing for insurance of 
advances cases, and/or final closing for insurance upon completion 
cases. When a substantial rehabilitation project will be insured upon 
completion (i.e. no initial endorsement), project information must be 
submitted to the Multifamily Hub or Program Center when substantial 
rehabilitation begins. The cover letter should specify the substantial 
rehabilitation start date.

IX. Closing and Loan Endorsement

    A. QPE Closing and HUD Endorsement of Loan. Before disbursement of 
loan advances in periodic advances cases, and in all cases after 
completion of repairs or substantial rehabilitation (or completion of 
processing for existing projects requiring no repairs), the QPE must 
hold a closing and submit a closing docket with required documentation 
to the Multifamily Hub or Program Center (Hub/PC) with jurisdiction for 
the project's location. The submission will include, among other 
things, the mortgage note which the Hub/PC Director will endorse for 
insurance. Prior to closing, the QPE must ensure that the following 
property and mortgage requirements have been met:
    1. Property Requirements--Real Estate. The mortgage must be on real 
estate held:
    a. In fee simple;
    b. Under a renewable lease of not less than 99 years; or
    c. Under a lease executed by a governmental agency, or other lessor 
approved by the QPE, that has a term at least 10 years beyond the end 
of the mortgage term.
    2. Title.
    a. Eligibility of Title. Marketable title to the mortgaged property 
must be vested in the mortgagor on the date the mortgage is filed for 
record.
    b. Title Evidence. The QPE must receive a title insurance policy 
(or other acceptable title evidence in the jurisdiction if title 
policies are not typical) that ensures that marketable title is vested 
in the mortgagor, that a survey acceptable to the QPE has been 
performed, and that no existing impediments to title concern, or exist 
on, the property.
    3. Mortgage Provisions.
    a. Form. The mortgage and note must be executed on a form approved 
by the QPE for use in the jurisdiction in which the property is 
located. The note must provide that the mortgage is insured under 
Section 542(b) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992. 
The note must also specify the risk of loss assumed by the QPE and by 
HUD, at 50 percent and 50 percent each.
    b. Mortgagor. The mortgage must be executed by a mortgagor 
determined eligible by the QPE.
    c. First Lien. The mortgage must be a single first lien on property 
that has first priority for payment and that conforms to property 
standards prescribed by the QPE.
    d. Single Asset Mortgagor. The mortgage must require that the 
mortgagor is a single asset, sole purpose mortgagor.
    e. Amortization. The mortgage must provide for complete 
amortization (i.e., regularly amortizing) over the term of the 
mortgage. Commencement of amortization must be the month following 
HUD's endorsement of the loan. Amortization may not commence prior to 
HUD loan endorsement.
    f. Use Restrictions. The mortgage must contain a covenant 
prohibiting the use of the property for any purpose other than the 
purpose intended on the day the mortgage was executed.
    g. Hazard Insurance. The mortgage must contain:
    i. A covenant acceptable to the QPE that binds the mortgagor to 
keep the

[[Page 66052]]

property insured by one or more standard policies for fire or other 
hazards which are stipulated by the QPE;
    ii. A standard mortgagee clause making loss payable to the QPE must 
be included in the mortgage;
    iii. The QPE is responsible for ensuring that insurance is 
maintained in force and in the amount required by this paragraph and by 
the mortgage;
    iv. The QPE must ensure that the insurance coverage is in an amount 
which will comply with the coinsurance clause applicable to the 
location and character of the property, but not less than 80 percent of 
the actual cash value of the insurable improvements and equipment. If 
the mortgagor does not obtain the required insurance, the QPE must do 
so and assess the mortgagor for such costs; and
    v. These insurance requirements apply as long as the QPE retains an 
interest in the project and final claim settlement has not been 
completed or the contract of insurance has not been otherwise 
terminated.
    vi. If the property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area 
identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and in which the 
sale of flood insurance has been made available under the National 
Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (NFIA), the QPE must ensure that the 
property is covered by flood insurance during the term of the mortgage 
in an amount equal to or greater than the least of the following: (1) 
the development or project cost less estimated land cost; (2) the 
maximum limit of coverage made available for the type of property under 
the NFIA; or (3) the outstanding principal balance of the mortgage.
    h. Modification of Terms. The mortgage must contain a covenant 
requiring that, in the event the QPE and owner agree to a modification 
of the terms of the mortgage (e.g., to reflect a reduction of the 
interest rate if reductions are realized in the underlying bond rates 
for the project), any subsidized rents would be reduced in accordance 
with HUD guidelines in effect at the time.
    i. Regulatory Agreement. The mortgage must contain a provision 
incorporating the Regulatory Agreement by reference.
    4. Mortgage Lien and Other Obligations.
    a. Liens: At the initial and final closing of the loan, the 
mortgagor and the QPE must certify, and the QPE must determine, that 
the property covered by the mortgage is free from all liens other than 
the insured mortgage, except that the property may be subject to an 
inferior lien(s) as approved by the QPE, as long as the insured 
mortgage has first priority for payment.
    b. Contractual Obligations: At the final closing of the loan, the 
mortgagor and the QPE must certify, and the QPE must determine, that 
all contractual obligations in connection with the mortgage 
transaction, including the purchase of the property and the 
improvements to the property, are paid. An exception is made for 
obligations that are approved by the QPE and determined by the QPE to 
be of a lesser priority for payment than the obligation of the insured 
mortgage.
    5. Execution of Regulatory Agreement. The QPE and the mortgagor 
must execute and record a Regulatory Agreement in a form acceptable to 
HUD, a standard form of which will be developed. The Regulatory 
Agreement must include an addendum requiring the mortgagor to comply 
with the requirements of the Risk-Sharing Program for as long as the 
Commissioner insures the mortgage.
    6. Submission of Closing Docket. The QPE must submit the closing 
docket, representations and certifications, to the Hub/PC, transmitted 
by letter signed by an authorized official identified in the Risk-
Sharing Agreement. An original and one electronic copy must be 
submitted. The closing docket, each page numbered in the upper right 
corner with the HUD project number, must contain specific project 
information, and accompanied by a check for the first year's Mortgage 
Insurance Premium.
    a. Project Information. Project information concerning the mortgage 
amount, location, number and type of units, income and expenses, rents, 
rents as a percentage of area median income, project occupancy 
percentage, value/replacement cost, interest rate, type of financing, 
tax credit use (if applicable), and similar statistical information 
will be provided.
    b. Initial Closing for Insured Advances. If an initial closing 
docket is required, it should be submitted by the QPE and must include 
the information and certifications requested in this notice. The Hub/PC 
will review the initial closing docket in a manner similar to its 
review of the final closing docket.
    c. Final Closing: After substantial rehabilitation completion of 
the project or completion of critical repairs (noncritical repairs may 
be made after final endorsement with establishment of appropriate 
escrows acceptable to the QPE) and execution of a certificate of actual 
cost (for both insurance of advances and insurance upon completion), 
the QPE will submit a closing docket to the Multifamily Hub or Program 
Center for final endorsement. The final closing docket must include the 
information and certifications required by this notice along with the 
QPE's updated project information if submitted for initial endorsement.
    7. Local HUD Office Review of Closing Dockets. The Hub/PC has 
primary responsibility for review of closing dockets and ensuring that 
projects are endorsed for insurance. The Hub/PC has 5 working days to 
complete this process except for the sample of projects that the Office 
chooses for pre-endorsement monitoring, which has a 10-day deadline. 
However, every effort should be made to endorse projects as quickly as 
possible.
    8. Certifications. Multifamily Housing staff will review all 
closing dockets for completeness, including the QPE's certifications 
that:
    a. Written approval was obtained for all HUD-retained reviews; and
    b. All nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and equal employment 
opportunity requirements were followed;
    c. The QPE reviewed and approved the mortgagor's Affirmative Fair 
Housing Marketing plan;
    d. Processing, underwriting (including a determination that a 
market exists for the project), cost certification (at final closing 
only) and closing were all performed according to the QPE's standards 
and requirements;
    e. For insurance of advances cases, advances were made 
proportionate to substantial rehabilitation progress;
    f. The property is free of all liens other than the first mortgage 
except for inferior liens approved by the QPE; and
    g. All contractual obligations are paid.
    9. Other Information. The Hub/PC will review each closing docket 
for among other things, the presence of the QPE's project information, 
amortization schedule; a copy of the Risk-Sharing Agreement with any 
prior amendments or addendums; certified copies of the mortgage (deed 
of trust), mortgage (deed of trust) note (with the risk of loss to be 
assumed by the QPE and HUD specified on the face sheet); a copy of the 
QPE-approved cost certification; a copy of the Regulatory Agreement 
between the QPE and the mortgagor; and a hazard insurance policy (and 
flood insurance policy where required) with a clause making the loss 
payable to the QPE; (for final endorsement of insured advances), a copy 
of the QPE-approved schedule of insured advances equal to the Risk 
Sharing mortgage documenting the date and amount of each of 
disbursement during the substantial rehabilitation

[[Page 66053]]

period. The Hub/PC will also determine that certifications and other 
documents committing the QPE were signed by QPE officials identified in 
the Risk-Sharing Agreement.
    10. Local HUD Office Monitoring Functions. The Hub/PC will perform 
pre-endorsement monitoring by reviewing a limited sample of the first 
three insured advances cases and cost certifications. The Office has a 
total of 10 working days to review the submission and endorse the 
mortgage for insurance for these sample cases. In the case of these 
initial submissions HUD has the authority to make an appropriate 
adjustment to the amount of mortgage insurance up to and including 
final endorsement. However, it is anticipated that adjustments would be 
made only in very rare cases (as they are rare for HUD-processed 
projects). The review is to ensure that the QPE has used its own 
procedures for insured advances and cost certification. Except where 
Headquarters has required a particular QPE to use HUD's procedures for 
advances and/or cost certification, QPEs do not have to comply with 
HUD's handbooks and instructions.
    a. Insurance of Advances. Check to see whether advances were 
consistent with substantial rehabilitation progress, whether the loan 
remained in balance by comparing actual disbursements against a project 
completion schedule, and whether disbursements were supported by bills 
and/or receipts.
    b. Cost Certification. Review the QPE's cost certification to 
ensure that the amount to be insured is supported by costs actually 
incurred and approved by the QPE.
    11. HUD Endorsement. After review of the closing docket and other 
materials, the Multifamily Hub or Program Center must do the following:
    a. Endorsement: Unless the loan is one of the first three initial 
cases submitted for HUD review before endorsement, the Hub/PC Director 
will endorse the credit instrument within 5 workdays after accepting 
the closing docket. The original endorsed credit instrument must be 
returned by certified mail, return receipt requested.
    b. Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP): The Hub/PC must issue an 
Official Receipt for the initial year's MIP from the QPE (mortgagee). 
The MIP for the Risk-Sharing Program is different than HUD's other 
mortgage insurance programs.
    c. ``Closing Memorandum.'' The Hub/PC staff is responsible for 
preparing the HUD-290 in DAP based on project data consistent with the 
closing docket. The Hub/PC Director, Operations Officer, or a person 
officially delegated to act for the Director signs the HUD-290.
    i. Include original with the original closing docket to be 
transmitted to Headquarters.
    ii. Include a copy with the conformed closing docket to be 
transmitted to the Hub/PC for the monitoring phase.
    d. Contents of HUD-290 Closing Submissions: Within 5 workdays of 
endorsement, the Hub/PC must submit copies of the following documents 
to the HUD Headquarters Office of Multifamily Insurance Operations:
    i. ``Closing Memorandum'' form HUD-290 signed by Director or 
designee;
    ii. ``Official Receipt'' form HUD-27038 for the first mortgage 
insurance premium;
    iii. Schedule of Collections form HUD-3416 documenting the deposit 
of the first mortgage insurance premium;
    iv. Mortgage note or deed of trust including endorsement panel 
signed by officials of the QPE and HUD;
    v. Amortization schedule consistent with the terms described on the 
mortgage note or deed of trust;
    vi. Copy of the Risk Sharing Agreement with any prior amendments, 
and Addendum to the Risk Sharing Agreement for the subject project; and
    vii. For final endorsement of insured advances only, a copy of the 
QPE-approved schedule of insured advances.
    12. Transmittal of Washington Closing Docket. The Risk Sharing 
original closing docket is processed in the same manner as the 
Washington Docket is for projects insured under the National Housing 
Act except that the contents of the docket, including amortization 
schedule, must comply with the requirements of the Section 542(b) Risk 
Sharing Program. The closing docket must be delivered within 30 
workdays of endorsement to Headquarters, Office of Housing, Chief, 
Records Management Branch (HOAMP), B-264, including:
    a. The cover memorandum and original HUD-290; and
    b. The closing docket prepared by QPE, with each page numbered.
    13. Recordation. At the time of Initial Endorsement, in the case of 
insurance of advances, or at the time of Final Endorsement in the case 
of insurance upon completion, the QPE shall make certain that the 
mortgage, the Regulatory Agreement, and the Uniform Commercial Code 
financing statements are properly recorded, and filed in all required 
locations.

X. Program Monitoring

    Periodic program monitoring will be performed at two levels: (1) 
The Multifamily Hub or Program Center (Hub/PC) with jurisdiction for 
the QPE, and (2) HUD Headquarters. HUD will conduct compliance 
monitoring in accordance with the QPE's own approved procedures for 
origination, underwriting, processing, servicing, management and 
disposition procedures, as well as compliance with HUD regulations and 
guidelines. Annual certifications will be required to verify that the 
necessary staffing, procedures, and measures of financial capacity 
addressed in the QPE's application for participation in the initiative 
remain in effect. Other HUD offices may monitor QPEs and projects in 
accordance with their delegated authority including compliance with 
nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, labor, and environmental 
protection requirements. Monitoring will be performed on a remote and 
on-site basis primarily consisting of post-endorsement compliance 
reviews. The HUB/PC with jurisdiction for the QPE will have primary 
responsibility to conduct periodic on-site monitoring to determine 
overall compliance with program requirements.
    HUD Headquarters' primary responsibility will be overall program 
evaluation and the review of documentation pertaining to continued 
compliance of the QPE with program eligibility requirements, including 
monitoring of the dedicated account, where applicable, and other 
financial requirements. As appropriate, HUD Headquarters, including the 
Lender Qualification and Monitoring Division, the Multifamily Office of 
Asset Management, and the Multifamily Claims Branch may also be 
involved in conducting reviews of specific QPEs to determine compliance 
with applicable requirements.

XI. Project Management and Servicing

General

    The QPE is responsible for providing loan servicing and project 
management in conformance with the Risk-Sharing Agreement and the terms 
of the required Regulatory Agreement.
    1. QPE Responsibilities. As it relates to project management and 
loan servicing, the responsibility of the QPE shall include, but not be 
limited to:
    a. Execution and Enforcement of Regulatory Agreement. Execution and 
enforcement of a Regulatory Agreement between the mortgagor and the QPE 
that is recorded upon the closing of the Risk Sharing Loan and which:
    i. Includes a description of the property;
    ii. Is binding upon the mortgagor and any of its successors and 
assigns and

[[Page 66054]]

upon the QPE and any of its successors for the duration of the insured 
mortgage. The QPE may not assign the Regulatory Agreement;
    iii. Requires the project owner to make all payments due under the 
mortgage and, where necessary, establish escrows and reserves for 
future capital needs;
    iv. Requires the project owner to maintain the project as 
affordable housing;
    v. Requires the project owner to maintain the project in good 
physical and financial condition;
    vi. Requires the project owner to maintain complete project books 
and financial records, and provide the QPE with annual audited 
financial statements after the end of each fiscal year;
    vii. Requires the project owner to comply with the Fair Housing 
Act, Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; 
section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, the Equal 
Credit Opportunity Act, Executive Orders 11063 as amended by Executive 
Order 12259, Executive Order 12246, other applicable federal laws and 
regulations issued pursuant to these authorities, and applicable state 
and local fair housing and equal opportunity laws; and, if the 
mortgagor receives federal financial assistance, requires the project 
owner to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age 
Discrimination Act of 1975, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 
of 1973, and HUD's regulations issued pursuant to these laws;
    viii. Requires the project owner to operate as a single asset 
mortgagor entity; and
    ix. Requires the project owner to make project books and financial 
records available for HUD's Inspector General and FHA Commissioner and 
his/her duly authorized agents, and/or Government Accountability Office 
(GAO) for review with appropriate notification.
    b. Physical Inspections. Performing annual physical inspections of 
the project and providing a copy of the inspection reports upon request 
to the local Hub/Program Center. If the project receives a less than 
satisfactory rating and/or if the project is not in safe and sanitary 
condition, the QPE must provide a summary to HUD of actions required, 
with target dates to correct unresolved findings.
    c. Analyzing project annual audited financial statements and 
providing HUD with a summary of any unresolved or negative findings, 
including a summary of corrective actions planned, with target dates. 
Providing HUD with an annual audited financial statement of the QPE in 
accordance with the requirements of 24 CFR Sec.  85.26 Non-Federal 
audit and OMB Circular A-133 ``Audits of States, Local Governments, and 
Non-Profit Organizations''.
    2. Record Retention: Records pertaining to the mortgage loan 
origination and servicing of the loan must be maintained for as long as 
the mortgage insurance remains in force. Records pertaining to a 
mortgage default and claim must be retained from the date of default 
through final settlement of the claim and for a period of no less than 
3 years after final settlement.

XII. Mortgage Insurance Premiums and Financial Systems

    QPEs are responsible for processing Risk Sharing project 
applications and approving them for HUD mortgage insurance. The Hub/PCs 
record project information in the Development Application Processing 
(DAP) system and provide HUD Headquarters with data needed to establish 
the insured case in the FHA Subsidiary Ledger (FHASL) System. The 
Multifamily Insurance Operations Branch (MFIOB) is responsible for 
tracking the portfolio of HUD insured projects and managing the 
collection of Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIP). The MFIOB will bill 
QPEs for all premiums and applicable late fees and interest charges due 
subsequent to the MIP payment made at Initial Endorsement.
    1. Establishing the Insurance in Force Record.
    a. Projects with Insured Advances
    i. General--Projects endorsed with insured advances provide for HUD 
mortgage insurance coverage of funds disbursed during the substantial 
rehabilitation period.
    ii. Initial Endorsement--The Initial Endorsement of the mortgage 
note is performed by the Hub/PC and normally occurs prior to the start 
of substantial rehabilitation. Projects become part of the HUD- insured 
portfolio at this time.
    (1) QPE Responsibilities Prior to Initial Endorsement Include:
    (a) Collecting the Initial MIP--Prior to submitting projects to the 
Hub/PC for Initial Endorsement, the QPE will collect an MIP payment 
equal to the prescribed percentage of the insured amount as required by 
the Percentage Share of Risk. The QPE will instruct the mortgagor to 
make the MIP check payable to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 
Development;
    (b) Preparing the Closing Docket--The QPE will prepare a closing 
docket in accordance with instructions contained in this notice. The 
closing docket will include the mortgage note, amortization schedule, 
and risk-sharing agreement; and
    (c) Submitting the Endorsement Request to the Hub/PC--The QPE will 
mail the MIP along with the Closing Docket to the Hub/PC for 
endorsement of the mortgage note. These must be mailed within 15 days 
of closing.
    (2) Multifamily Hub/Program Center Initial Endorsement 
Responsibilities Include:
    (a) Preparing the Official Receipt--The Hub/PC will deposit the MIP 
on the day received and prepare and distribute the Official Receipt, 
form HUD-27038 documenting the MIP payment and form HUD-3416 ``Schedule 
of Multifamily Project Collections'' documenting the deposit of the MIP 
payment;
    (b) Updating the DAP System--The Hub/PC will update the project 
data in the DAP system within 2 days of Initial Endorsement and prepare 
the form HUD-290 ``Multifamily Closing Memorandum'' to create the FHASL 
insurance in force file;
    (c) Reporting to the Multifamily Insurance Operations Branch 
(MFIOB)--Within 5 days of receipt of the Closing Docket from the QPE, 
the Hub/PC must forward documents required to establish the insurance 
record to the MFIOB. One copy each of the form HUD-290 ``Multifamily 
Closing Memorandum'', amortization schedule, mortgage note, copy of the 
Risk-Sharing Agreement, form HUD-27038 ``Official Receipt'' and form 
HUD-3416 ``Schedule of Multifamily Project Collections''; and
    (d) Copies of these documents will also be incorporated in the 
official Docket that the Hub/PC must submit to Headquarters. The Hub/PC 
will submit the Official Receipt for the initial premium payment to the 
Office of Finance and Accounting (OFA).
    (3) MFIOB Action. The MFIOB will process information received from 
the Hub/PC to establish the project in the FHASL System. The creation 
of a newly insured project in FHASL also requires certain information 
from the official receipt issued by the Hub/PC for receipt of the 
initial insurance premium. The FHASL record will be used to generate 
the annual MIP billings.
    iii. Final Endorsement--Projects with insured advances will be 
finally endorsed by the Hub/PC after completion of substantial 
rehabilitation. The terms of the mortgage note may be modified at this 
time as a result of substantial rehabilitation and cost certification.
    (1) QPE Responsibilities Prior to Final Endorsement:
    (a) Preparing the Closing Docket--The QPE will prepare closing 
docket and submit project information in

[[Page 66055]]

accordance with instructions contained in this notice. The docket will 
include the mortgage note, amortization schedule, Risk-Sharing 
Agreement and any modifications to the original note, copy of the QPE-
approved schedule of insured advances equal to the risk-sharing 
mortgage; and
    (b) Submitting the Endorsement Request to the Local HUD Office--The 
QPE will mail the Closing Docket to the Hub/PC for Final Endorsement of 
the note.
    (2) Multifamily Hub/Program Center Final Endorsement 
Responsibilities:
    (a) Preparing the Closing Memorandum--The Hub/PC will update the 
DAP System and prepare the form HUD-290 within 2 days of endorsement. 
The form HUD-290 will reflect any changes to the mortgage terms that 
existed at the time of the Initial Endorsement; and
    (b) Reporting to MFIOB--Within 5 days of receipt of the Closing 
Docket from the QPE, the Hub/PC must forward one copy each of the Final 
Endorsement HUD-290, Mortgage Note, Amortization Schedule, Schedule of 
Insured Advances equal to the final mortgage, Risk-Sharing Agreement 
and Modification Agreement, if applicable
    (3) MFIOB Actions. The MFIOB will process closing docket 
information received from the Hub/PC to process the final endorsement 
in FHASL.
    b. Projects Insured Upon Completion
    i. General--Projects endorsed with insurance upon completion are 
processed for insurance after completion of substantial rehabilitation, 
or purchase, or refinance with or without repairs for existing 
projects. Initial and Final endorsement of these cases occurs 
simultaneously.
    ii. Initial/Final Endorsement--Insured upon completion projects 
become HUD-insured at the initial/final endorsement.
    iii. QPE Responsibilities Prior to Initial/Final Endorsement:
    (1) Collecting the Initial MIP--Prior to submitting projects to the 
Hub/PC for Initial/Final endorsement, the QPE will collect an MIP 
payment equal to the ``Prescribed Percentage for Calculating QPE's 
Annual MIP'' times the loan amount. The QPE will instruct the mortgagor 
to make the MIP check payable to the U.S. Department of Housing and 
Urban Development;
    (2) Preparing the Closing Docket--The QPE will prepare a Closing 
Docket in accordance with instructions contained in this notice. The 
docket will include the mortgage note, amortization schedule and Risk-
Sharing Agreement; and
    (3) Submitting the Endorsement Request to the Hub/PC--Within 15 
days of closing, the QPE will submit the MIP along with the Closing 
Docket to the Hub/PC for endorsement of the mortgage note.
    iv. Multifamily Hub/Program Center Initial/Final Endorsement 
Responsibilities:
    (1) Preparing the Official Receipt--The Hub/PC will deposit the MIP 
on the day received and prepare and distribute the Official Receipt and 
Schedule of Collections documenting the MIP payment in accordance with 
Handbook 4110.1, REV-1;
    (2) Preparing the Closing Memorandum--The Hub/PC will update 
project data in the DAP System within 2 days of the Initial or Final 
Endorsement and prepare the form HUD-290;
    (3) Reporting to MFIOB--Within 5 days of receipt of the Closing 
Docket from the QPE, the Hub/PC must forward documents required to 
establish the insurance record to the MFIOB;
    (4) Copies of Documents--Submitting one copy each of the form HUD-
290, mortgage note, amortization schedule, the Risk-Sharing Agreement, 
Official Receipt, and Schedule of Collections to MFIOB; and
    (5) Official Docket--Copies of these documents will also be 
incorporated in the official Docket that the Hub/PC must submit to 
Headquarters. The Hub/PC will submit the Official Receipt for the 
initial premium payment to the Office of Finance and Accounting (OFA) 
in accordance with instructions contained in Handbook 4110.1 Rev.
    v. Processing Closing Docket Information. The MFIOB will process 
the closing docket information received from the Multifamily Hub/
Program Center to establish the project in the FHASL System.
    2. Annual Premium Billing and Record Change: Official records on 
HUD-insured multifamily projects are maintained by the MFIOB in the 
FHASL System at HUD Headquarters. This organization also is responsible 
for billing and collecting annual mortgage insurance premiums. MIP is 
billed and collected in advance and under certain circumstances, in 
connection with termination of FHA mortgage insurance or prepayments, 
refunds of unearned premiums will be made to the QPE for the 
mortgagor's account. All modifications to the mortgage that take place 
after final endorsement, as well as mortgage servicer changes, will be 
recorded in the FHASL system.
    a. Annual Premiums: QPEs will be billed for all annual premiums due 
after the initial premium. All premium payments will be made through 
pay.gov in accordance with Mortgagee Letter 2012-16.
    i. Interim Premiums Pre-Amortization--Premiums calculated on the 
total insured amount will be due on the first day of the month of each 
anniversary of the initial endorsement that occurs prior to the date of 
first payment to principal. These interim premiums are only relevant 
for projects with insured advances where the first payment to principal 
date is more than 12 months after initial endorsement. The due date for 
interim premiums will be the first day of the month in which the 
anniversary of the initial endorsement occurs.
    ii. Annual Premiums Post-Amortization--The annual MIP payments, 
beginning with the first payment to principal, will be calculated in 
accordance with the amortization schedule prepared by the QPE and 
supplied to HUD and the MIP Percentage taken from the Closing 
Memorandum prepared by the Hub/PC. The first regular annual premium 
will be due on the first day of the month in which the first payment to 
principal occurs. This first billing (as well as subsequent annual 
premiums) will be calculated by multiplying the ``Prescribed Percentage 
for Calculating QPE's Annual MIP'' by the average outstanding principal 
balance during the upcoming 12 months following first payment. This 
payment will reflect an adjustment to deduct any portion of the last 
interim premium paid that covers a period after first payment.

    Example: 
Mortgage Amount = $2,000,000
MIP Percentage = .45
% Commitment Type = Insured Advances
Initial Endorsement--1/2/2012
Initial premium for period 1/1/2012-12/31/2012 ($2,000,000 x 0.45%) 
= $9,000
Date of First Payment to Principal 7/1/2012
Post amortization MIP due 7/1/2012 covering period 7/1/2012-6/30/
2013
MIP due equals average outstanding balance from amortization 
schedule ($1,950,000) x 0.45% = $8,775
Less amount of initial MIP for 7/1/2012-12/31/2012 = -$4,500
Total Due 7/1/2012 = $4,225

    Thereafter, until maturity or termination in this notice, MIP 
payments will be due on the first day of the month of each anniversary 
of the first payment to principal. The billings will be mailed to the 
servicing mortgagee of record approximately 45 days before the due 
date.
    b. Billing Statement and Reconciliation. A sample billing statement 
is shown as in HUD Handbook 4590.1, Appendix 16. This form is to be 
returned along with the payment.

[[Page 66056]]

    3. Method of Payment: Annual mortgage insurance premium payments 
must be made through pay.gov.
    4. Late Fees and Interest Changes: All payments must be received no 
later than 15 days after the due date. Payments received after this 
will incur additional charges.
    a. Late Fees--All premiums received by HUD more than 15 days after 
the due date will be assessed a 4 percent late charge.
    b. Daily Interest Charges--Premiums that remain unpaid more than 30 
days after the due date will accrue daily interest from the due date 
until paid at the rate prescribed by the Treasury Fiscal Requirements 
Manual.
    HUD will bill for interest and late fees each month until the 
charges are paid.
    5. Post Final Endorsement Modifications
    a. The Applicant will provide the Hub/PC with a copy of the 
Modification Agreement along with a copy of the revised Amortization 
Schedule;
    b. Updating the DAP System--The Hub/PC will update the DAP System 
within 2 days of receipt of notification of the modification agreement;
    c. The Hub/PC will forward copies of the modification agreement and 
amortization schedule, and revised form HUD-290 to MFIOB;
    d. The MFIOB will update FHASL to reflect the modified mortgage 
terms. Future premium billings will be calculated on the new terms; and
    e. The Applicant will be responsible for notifying HUD of any 
change in the project Servicing Mortgagee. Up-to-date mortgagee 
information is needed in order for HUD to properly direct premium 
billings and other project related correspondence. Mortgage changes 
will be accomplished by completing and forwarding form HUD- 92080, 
``Mortgage Record Change'' to: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 
Development, Multifamily Insurance Operations Branch, PO Box 44124, 
Washington, DC 20026-4124.
    6. Termination of Insurance: The Applicant must remit annual 
Mortgage Insurance Premiums until the mortgage reaches maturity or is 
terminated through one of the following actions:
    a. The mortgage is paid in full;
    b. A deed to the HFA is filed for record;
    c. An application for initial claim payment is received by the 
Commissioner; or
    d. The contract of insurance is otherwise terminated.
    7. Cessation of Obligation to Pay MIP. The obligation to pay MIP 
will cease upon receipt by HUD of either of the following:
    a. A completed ``Insurance Termination Request for Multifamily 
Mortgage'' form HUD-9807. Requests for voluntary termination must be 
accompanied by the original credit instrument. When the termination is 
approved, the insurance endorsement will be cancelled and the credit 
instrument returned to the QPE. The instructions on form HUD-9807 are 
to be followed;
    b. The obligation to pay MIP will cease in the event a deed is 
filed for recordation, or an application for initial claim payment is 
received by the Commissioner; or
    c. If the Contract of Insurance is terminated by payment in full or 
is terminated by the QPE on a form prescribed by the Commissioner, 
after the date of first payment to principal, the Commissioner shall 
refund any unearned MIP paid for the period after the effective date of 
the termination of insurance. The unearned portion of MIP will be 
refunded to the QPE for credit to the mortgagor's account.

XIII. Evaluation of the Initiative

    One of the principal purposes of the initiative is to determine 
whether, by providing Federal credit enhancement for refinancing and 
rehabilitation of small multifamily housing, the initiative is 
successful in increasing the flow of credit to small multifamily 
properties. HUD will, therefore, undertake an evaluation of the 
initiative to determine the success of the initiative.

XIV. Findings and Certifications

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The information collection requirements contained in this document 
have been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520) and assigned 
OMB control number 2502-0500. In accordance with the Paperwork 
Reduction Act, HUD may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, a collection of information unless the 
collection displays a currently valid OMB control number.

Environmental Impact

    A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) with respect to the 
environment has been made for this notice in accordance with HUD 
regulations at 24 CFR Part 50, which implement section 102(2)(C) of the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)). The 
FONSI is available for public inspection between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. 
weekdays in the Regulations Division, Office of General Counsel, 
Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street SW., Room 
10276, Washington DC 20410-0500. Due to security measures at this HUD 
Headquarters Building, an advance appointment to review the FONSI must 
be scheduled by calling the Regulations Division at 202-708-3055 (not a 
toll free number).

XV. Solicitation of Comment on Notice and President's 2014 Budget

    HUD welcomes comment on all aspects of the proposed initiative. In 
addition, comments are solicited on the President's Fiscal Year 2014 
Budget Request legislative proposal to expand the Risk Share Program to 
more broadly support Small Building Finance under Section 542 (b) by 
allowing Risk Share lenders to apply to become Ginnie Mae issuers. 
Please note, however, that the proposed changes in the 2014 Budget 
Request proposal are not presumed to have been enacted, nor are they 
necessary for purposes of the implementation of this Small Buildings 
Risk Sharing proposal.

    Dated: October 29, 2013.
Carol J. Galante,
 Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner.
[FR Doc. 2013-26328 Filed 11-1-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4210-67-P