Lending Announcement: June 17, 2021

Topics in the Announcement

June 17, 2021 

  • Lending Department Special Memo

We have had some exciting changes in the Lending Department over the second quarter! We are excited to update you on several additions to our management team and structure of the department. The special memo attached reviews our new managers and team updates!

 

  • New QM Rule: Effective July 1, 2021

Loan with application dates on/after July 1, 2021 will be subject to the revised General QM Rule. The new rule will sunset the 43% DTI limitation and GSE QM patch and will emphasize overall loan cost instead. The revised General QM Rule requires us to take a closer look at APR and loan balance and will be fully integrated into the MAVENT compliance engine and the ATR/QM tools in Encompass. We do not foresee any major interruption with business operations or changes to our workflow.

 

  • Coming July 1: TBD Underwrites for All Loan Types!

As of June 1, we brought back TBD underwrites for manually underwritten government loans, and loans using income from self-employed borrowers. Starting July 1, we will accept TBD submissions for all loan types.

 

  • VA Funding Fee: New Automation in Place

Encompass will now automatically update the VA Funding Fee based on the current loan data. The Funding Fee will adjust automatically upon saving the file based on the LTV, Loan Type (Purchase, Refi, or IRRRL), and First Time Use Status. Please see the attached VA Funding Fee Automation Memo for more details and a how-to.  Note: This will impact all VA files created on or after 6/17/21.

 

  • New Product: Fannie Mae RefiNow

Fannie Mae has introduced a new no-cash out refinance option for low income borrowers. RefiNow is available to borrowers with current income at or below 80% of the AMI, whose current mortgage is backed by Fannie on one-unit, primary residences. With this program, Fannie will provide a $500 credit to the lender if an appraisal was obtained, which gets passed to the borrower. In addition, the 50 bps up-front adverse market refi fee is waived.

Full borrower and loan eligibility details are available in the attached Lender Letter, fact sheet, and at Fannie Mae’s website. Also attached is the VanDyk RefiNow Matrix.

In Compass PPE, you will need to select “RefiNow” under Special Products on the scenario page when pricing your loan. CPPE will not automatically pick up that your loan is RefiNow eligible. Selecting RefiNow as the Special Product will force CPPE to only price the RefiNow product.

Note: Freddie Mac has a similar product coming later this summer (Refi Possible). We will pass along more details in a future Lending Announcement.

 

  • EMD/Other Credits: Reminders

The updated EMD and Additional Credits workflow is being expanded to the Prospects and TBD folders. This change may impact your existing Earnest Money Deposits and Additional Credits currently listed on Borrower Summary – 2021, Itemization, and URLA – Lender Forms.

Please double check that your credits are accurate prior to requesting disclosures.

 

 

  • Technology Update: Encompass Enhancements!

Encompass is here to stay!  A couple years ago, we had decided to move away from Encompass and go to BlackKnight’s Empower LOS.  Our decision was based on the turmoil Ellie Mae was going through at the time and the lack of focus on the needed infrastructure improvements.  Since then, ICE Mortgage Technologies has purchased Encompass and we see renewed energy in in making the necessary improvements.  We have decided to stay with Encompass and shift our focus on making Encompass the best it can be.

The rest of this year, you will see enhancements to our platform – some subtle, some not so subtle – but all to improve our overall integrity, ease of use, and efficiencies in the system.

 

This week you may have noticed these changes:

  • Home Counselor Plugin – This is not something you will see, but this automatically runs instead of Compliance having to manually run.
    1. Upon entering the borrower’s current address, this plugin will auto-populate the Home Counseling Providers list for disclosure.

 

  • ePrint – All users will see an ePrint icon near the eFolder icon. This will print a screenshot of the input form currently being viewed in the borrower file, excluding the 2015 Itemization (we are working on this one). Users can designate how the document is named and placed in the eFolder.
  • eFolder Magnifying Glass – A magnifying glass was added to the eFolder to assist in locating specific document and condition names, instead of having to scroll through the list:

 

  • History FX Plugin – As you work in Encompass and click thru Forms and Tools, a list will be created under the History FX tab. You can use this list to quickly navigate between common forms and tools you have been visiting. You can also use the arrows to go back and forth between the forms recently visited:

 

  • FEMA Look Up – This tool automatically pulls FEMA Disaster Declarations from the FEMA website using the Subject Property State and County. It records all relevant disaster declarations from the past year to the loan file.  It will put the report in the eFolder:

 

  • USPS Look Up – All you need to do is make sure the Subject Property Address is filled out (the ZIP code isn’t even required), click the USPS button or go to the “LTK – USPS Validation” form, and click the “Verify Address” button. This will verify the address with USPS. If you click the “Yes” button in the popup, it will automatically update the Subject Property Address with the valid address USPS uses. Then the report will be placed in the eFolder.  As a reminder, please do not abbreviate the City name in any way.

We have a lot more ideas and projects coming.  If you have any suggestions or if you want to be part of a committee on the consumer portal, LO Connect, origination workflow, or processing workflow, please email Jeanie Nivison.

 

June 2021 Lending Announcement

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Lending Announcement: May 20, 2021

Topics in the Announcement

  May 20, 2021
 

  • Non-Owner-Occupied and Second Home Conventional Fixed Rate Refinances Are Back!

Effective immediately, you may price and lock investment and second home refinance transactions, both rate/term and cash-out. Attached please find our revised FannieMae and FreddieMac Matrices.
  

  • TBD Underwrites Are Coming Back!

Starting on June 1st,  you may begin submitting TBD files for FHA, VA and USDA loans that require a manual underwrite, and for all loans using income from self-employed borrowers.

  • Appraisal Fees Increasing June 1, 2021

Recent comments and requests for fee increases by our appraisal panel led us to review the fees we offer Appraisers when sending out appraisal assignments. We compared our fees to VA (our initial pricing model), AMCs, and recent requests for increases and we found we were low and that we need to increase our fees to remain competitive.  Attached you will find the new fee chart for all orders placed after May 28, 2021 and assigned out June 1, 2021.

On the topic of appraisals, we wanted to pass along a helpful article that explains longer appraisal turn times and market conditions: Appraisal Turn Times: Can We Speed Them Up?

 

  • Fannie Mae – VOE/POA COVID Flexibilities Expired

Lender Letter LL-2021-03 attached states that flexibilities related to verbal VOEs and POA are no longer applicable for loan applications dated on or after May 1, 2021.  Standard Selling Guide guidelines now apply to these topics. You can find those guidelines here: VOEPOA

 

  • USDA: Updated Income Limits for 2021

The Fiscal Year 2021 income limits for Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program were published on May 12, 2021. GUS and the Income Eligibility calculator on the Eligibility Website have been updated with the new income limits.

 

  • Freddie Mac Change to Tax Proration Credits

Effective for settlement dates on or after August 5, 2021: We will no longer be able to use tax proration credits on the 1003 for qualification purposes, therefore they cannot be reflected in the credits on the Details of Transaction.  We will still be able to add these credits to the CD.  Full details are attached.

 

  • New Construction Indicators and Procedure Updates

Last month, we introduced a new loan folder called New Construction to help identify loans that will not be closing immediately. As a reminder, loans should remain in this folder until they are within 60 days of closing.

We have also added an indicator field to the Borrower Summary for you all to use (pictured below). This will help the Lending Teams identify which files in the pipeline are New Construction, and will also facilitate moving through the pipeline as purchase loans (on the occasions when the loan purpose is Refinance instead of Purchase).

We are also updating our requirements for Certificates of Occupancy and Final Inspections to be Prior to Funding items when the subject property is in a full new construction community (for example, homes built by Lennar, DR Horton, MI, etc.). It will be the branch’s responsibility to make sure that these items are received in time for funding and to notify the UW when they are uploaded for review.

 

May 2021 Lending Announcement

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Lending Announcement: April 16, 2021

Topics in the Announcement

  • Jumbo Non-Delegated Loans are Coming Soon!!

We will be rolling out non-delegated Jumbo loans through Truist (created through merger of BB&T and SunTrust) in the coming weeks – Loan Officers and Processors will need to complete training in order to get access to submit these loans to the investor for underwriting.

Truist’s Jumbo guidelines are available to review at https://www.stmpartners.com/Manual/cor/products/CKey.pdf  – please bookmark this site for easy access, as guidelines will change periodically.

Training session invitations and information will be distributed soon!

  

  • Floify E-Sign – Now Approved by DataVerify!

Tax transcript/4506C forms eSigned in Floify outside the initial disclosure package are now being accepted by DataVerify!  If you need a refresher, a how-to for adding Floify E-Sign docs is attached.

  

  • USDA Manufactured Housing Pilot Program – Additional States Available

USDA has expanded the program for existing manufactured homes. States included in the pilot are: Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Please see the attached USDA Memo for eligibility conditions for this program.

 

  • North Carolina HFA – Coming May 3!

Starting Monday May 3rd  North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) loans can be originated. Please note, NCHFA requires that the LO is located in North Carolina – otherwise, they will have to refer the loan to an originator in NC.

Please see the NCHFA Launch attachment for additional information. Lock form is also attached. Additional resources and guidelines are available at https://www.nchfa.com/homeownership-partners/lenders/forms-and-resources

 

  • VDM to VDM Refinances

When refinancing a mortgage through VanDyk, the payoff must be dated within 10 days of closing. As a reminder, you can email ServiceMyLoan@vandykmortgage.com for payoff requests.

To roll escrows over to the new loan, the signed Escrow Rollover Agreement must be sent to the Servicing department with the payoff request.  When escrows are rolled over, any refund due to the borrower for their existing escrow account will be applied to their principal balance instead of refunded to them after closing.  The Escrow Rollover Agreement form can be printed from Encompass.

 

  • Property Address – Abbreviation Clarification

When entering property addresses, please do not abbreviate or shorten any city names.  It is acceptable to abbreviate street suffixes such as St, Ave, or Blvd.

 

  • Mercury AMS – System Updates

First, the Mercury product list has been updated to include “Est Value UNDER $750,000” and “Est Value OVER $750,000” for Conventional SFR and Conventional Condo options. The price list has been updated and is attached.

Second, Mercury is implementing a change that will affect email notifications on or after April 21, 2021. To protect borrower privacy, the name of the borrower will be replaced by the word “Borrower” in email notifications sent from the platform. In addition, if the email subject line contains the borrower’s name and the email body contains the loan number, the email subject line will be replaced with the subject property’s physical address.

 

  • New Mexico Housing – HOI Deductible

The Homeowners Insurance Deductible for NM Housing cannot exceed the lesser of 1% or $1000.

 

  • Cryptocurrency as an Asset

Cryptocurrency must be documented like any other market-based asset, and is acceptable for use as an asset with Conventional financing. AccountChek is the best option to document these accounts whenever possible.

 

  • URLATeam Inbox Retiring 5/1

Starting May 1, any emails sent to URLATeam@vandykmortgage.com will automatically forward to the Production Support mailbox. We appreciate all the questions and feedback we received in March and April!

 

VA Refinances – Initial Disclosures

As a reminder on VA refinances, information must be completed prior to the initial disclosures being requested.

The Cash Out Refinance Tab needs to be filled out with the existing loan and proposed loan figures as well as the selection of one or more benefits.

Estimated figures are allowed for the initial disclosure but must be finalized for the closing package.

Also, the Qualification Tab will need previous loan info as well as:

  • If Loan Program is IRRRL the loan code (highlighted below in yellow) needs to indicate IRRRL as well.
  • The existing loan date is the date the borrower actually made the first payment, not when it was scheduled to be due by. UW will confirm this date.

Lending Announcement: March 18, 2021

Topics in the Announcement

March 18, 2021

  • Lien Searches on Free and Clear Properties

We can now help with your lien searches on free and clear properties.  To request a lien search, please email Production Support with the borrower name and loan number.

 

  • FHA Single-Unit Condominium Questionnaire

Attached is a copy of the new FHA Single-unit questionnaire.  It can be used immediately, but mandatory for case numbers assigned on or after May 17, 2021.   The attached Mortgagee Letter explains some of the changes to the form, however these changes do not alter any requirements found in the 4000.1.

 

  • URLA Update: Purchases with TBD Address

On Purchase files, TBD will be the default setting in the subject property address field. When you are ready to add the Subject Property Address, make sure the ECD is also updated for the data to save. You can find the ECD on Borrower Summary – 2021. (If you do not enter an ECD, the address will revert to TBD.)

 

  • Unrequested Disclosures – Due per TRID Timing

The Origination Compliance Department needs loans due for initials and rate locks to be requested for disclosures in a timely manner, so going forward we are making the following procedural changes as a due date is approaching:

  • Day before due date:
    • Reminder email sent to branch requesting submission of LE 0/4 before the end of the day.
  • On Due Date:
    • If LE page 0/4 has NOT be submitted Compliance will work the file work the file and complete any missing data.
    • A proforma LE/CD will be sent to branch to review for any last-minute changes.
    • Approval of the Proforma is due by 2pm (in the LOs time zone), if no approval is received by 2pm the disclosure package will be sent to the borrower unapproved.
      • All missing/incomplete data will be disclosed as worst case if no response from the branch is received.
      • Revised Initial disclosures will be difficult to accommodate, revisions will need to be made via COC requested through LE page 4.
      • Files without an active eConsent will be sent via US Mail.
  • Denied/Withdrawn Files:
    • Please inform Compliance and Pipelines of denied or withdrawn files ASAP, so disclosures are not unnecessarily sent on files not moving forward.
  • Broker Files:
    • Broker files will be disclosed by the broker, however in order to verify compliance with TRID timing a copy of the Broker’s disclosure is required in the eFolder prior to the due date.

 

  • Chenoa Sales Training and Additional Information

If you missed the Chenoa Sales Training on 3/10, you can access the recording by clicking here (use Access Passcode: Chenoa1!). Please feel free to reach out to our Chenoa rep Cari Zwick with any questions about the program at 630-301-2222.  Or you can click this link to schedule a follow-up meeting with her: Cari’s Meeting Link.  Attached find Secondary’s memo regarding Chenoa locks and pricing, and a job aid for setting up subordinate financing.

 

  • URLA 2020: Common Errors and Job Aids

DU “Underwriting Checklist Errors” and LP “Partner Errors” can be double-clicked to see additional information about the error. Attached you’ll find a helpful hints PDF that also compiles the job aids that have been sent out. All URLA guides created by the URLA Team have been uploaded at urla.askvandyk.com (if you need access to AskVanDyk, email Production Support). Please continue emailing URLATeam@vandykmortgage.com with your questions!

 

 


Bond Loan Rushes

As a reminder, we cannot close bond loans as a rush.

Bond Cutoff is 10am EST 48 hours prior to the ECD.


Compliance Reminders

  1. Branch Fees – Make sure to SAVE!
    1. Remember your branch fees will populate in your file upon SAVE. When you first apply your Loan Templates you will see generic closing costs until you save your file and your specific branch fees will appear.
  1. Fee Overrides
    1. To accommodate any special circumstances, we have implemented Fee Overrides on LE page 0 which allow fees to be changed. Checking the box next to the corresponding fee will override the new DDM fee rules and allow you to save your file without fees reverting to their original amount. **Overriding the Processing, UW, and Application fees is limited to branch managers.

Fee overrides should be used sparingly. If your Branch’s fee rules are producing the desired fees, please reach out to Ryan VanDyk (rvandyk@vandykmortgage.com) for assistance.

 

  1. Appraisal Fee – Driven by Loan Data
    1. The new Appraisal Fee rule is dynamic based on loan data and will change the appraisal fee based on the following loan factors:
      1. Subject Property State
      2. Loan Type
      3. Property Type
      4. Property Occupancy
      5. # of Units
    2. Please Note – The appraisal fee will not populate correctly (if at all) until all the above factors are completed and the loan is saved.

March 2021 Lending Announcement

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Lending Announcement: February 24, 2021

 

Topics in the Announcement

  • URLA 2020 Goes Live Companywide the Weekend of 2/27

As of 12:01AM on Saturday, Feb 27, 2021, all new loans in Encompass will be started on the 2020 URLA form. Beginning with disclosures 3/1/21 or after, loans must be disclosed using the new form, and AUS will need re-run with the new application format. If you need assistance toggling to the 2020 URLA form please make sure you reach out to URLATeam@vandykmortgage.com for assistance.

 

  • Chenoa Fund Program is Coming Back

Chenoa Fund is a down payment assistance program whose mission is to increase nationwide affordable and sustainable homeownership, with a focus on creditworthy, low and moderate-income individuals.  Pricing for Chenoa will be available on March 2, 2021.   They offer three FHA programs along with FannieMae HomeReady and standard FannieMae Conventional.  A minimum credit score of 640 is required for all programs.  Sales training will be scheduled for the first week of March.   Their most recent Lending Guide is attached and information is also available at Chenoa Fund Down Payment Assistance Programs     https://Chenoafund.org

 

  • Renovation Lending

Effective with loan applications taken on or after March 1, 2021, Renovation Loans will only be available through one of our Broker Partners.  Currently offering Renovation Lending is AFR www.afrwholesale.com , Plaza Home Mortgage  www.plazahomemortgage.com and Michigan Mutual  https://Michiganmutual.com .

 

  • FHA Dual Purpose Condo Questionnaire – For Units in Approved FHA Projects and Single-Unit Approvals

Attached please find FHA’s dual purpose condo questionnaire.   This questionnaire replaces the questionnaire currently being used for units in projects currently approved by FHA.   For FHA approved projects, only Section 3 needs to be completed.  For FHA Single-Unit approvals, the entire form must be completed.   HUD-9991 Condo LL-SUA Questionnaire 1_30_2020.fillable

 

  • Citizenship Guidelines Revised

Our Citizenship Guidelines have been revised to reflect FHA is now also an acceptable source of financing for individuals accepted under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program (DACA). Citizenship Policy February 18, 2021

 

  • Jumbo Loans

Thank you to everyone inquiring about the status of the jumbo loan product as well as for leads on investors. We are very excited about a new hire starting in March who comes with non-conforming experience and once he is up and running with VDM and our systems, and trained on the investors and guidelines, we will announce the rollout of the new product. Our target date for announcing the new product will be with the April Lending Announcement – stay tuned for further details!

 

  • Fee Templates – DDM

The following fees are now governed by our new DDM Rules:

Branch Fees – Rule active through Closing

  1. Origination
  2. Processing
  3. Underwriting
  4. Application Fee

If a credit is need on branch fees, please request a lender credit be added rather than having the fee removed.  If your fees are incorrect, or you have a special circumstance, please contact Ryan Vandyk (rvandyk@vandykmortgage.com) for assistance.

 

Appraisal Fees – Rule active until Initial Disclosures are sent.

  1. Appraisal Fee è Changes with loan data (State, property type, loan amount, loan type, etc.)

**Please Note: The Appraisal Waiver Received? field (on LE page 0 & Borrower Summary – 2021) will override the appraisal fee rules when marked YES and allow fees to be removed and not re-populate upon save.

  1. Appraisal Re-inspection è Added on LE page 0 ($130 Fee will populate).
  2. Appraisal Rush Fee è Added on LE page 0 ($200 Fee will apply).

Other Lender Fees – Rules active until Initial Disclosures are sent.

  1. Credit Report Fee
  2. TX Attorney Fee > Based on Loan Purpose (TX only)
  3. Transfer Taxes (only select states)
  4. Condo Review Fee > Added if property type is “Condo”
  5. HUD Plate & Foundation Inspection > Added if property type is “Manufactured home”
  6. MCC Fee > Added if MCC is marked “Yes”
  7. Bond Fees (1st and 2nd) > Loan Program Specific

Reminder – These rules fire upon SAVE. These fees will remain editable by all parties but will revert back to their original value upon save if the rule is active. Please be sure to double check any fee changes after you have saved your file to prevent any issues, especially if you have not saved prior to exiting a file.

If your fees are incorrect or you have a special circumstance, please contact Ryan VanDyk (rvandyk@vandykmortgage.com) for assistance.

 

  • Non-Borrowing Parties/Spouses – Rescindable Transactions

As a Reminder: For Primary Refinances, all non-borrowing spouses and/or any non-borrowing party with ownership interest in the property (with the right to rescind) needs to sign the initials CD 3 days prior to closing as well as any redisclosed CDs prior to closing. This procedure only applies to rescindable refinances.

We have added automatic reminder emails to be sent on files that could potentially have a non-borrowing party on the loan. If you receive one of these reminders, please verify if your file will have an NBP/NBS and if needed provide their name, email, and eConsent (if eSigning) as early as possible to prevent any delays in disclosure.

Please also be sure to review your Title Reports as soon as they are available to identify any additional parties listed on title that may fall under this rule as well.

Below is how the NBS contact information should look inside of the file contacts for them to receive a CD when the borrower does. Only the highlighted data is required. Their DocuSign link will be sent to them in a separate email, even if they share the same email address as the borrower, please make sure the NBS is aware this will be coming to them.

 

  • Freddie Mac Home Possible Reduction in LTV

Effective for Mortgages with Settlement Dates on or after April 1, 2021 – Properties with 2-4 units have a maximum LTV of 85%.  Revised Matrix is attached. Freddie Mac Home Possible February 2021

 

  • New GUS Goes Live on March 1, 2021.  Be prepared.  Avoid closing delays!!

On Friday, February 26, 2021, the existing Guaranteed Underwriting System (GUS) is permanently retiring. The URLA changes and “New GUS” will become effective March 1, 2021. The current and new versions of GUS will not be in service simultaneously, it is essential to understand the processes and procedures involved throughout this changeover.

The most important takeaway is that your USDA loans will need resubmitted to New Gus on/after March 1 if a Conditional Commitment had not yet been issued by the Feb 26, 2021 deadline put in place by RD. If your loan was disclosed on the 2009 URLA it will need to be manually entered into the “New GUS” system, whereas loans originated on the 2020 URLA may be exported from Encompass and uploaded to “New GUS” much like before. This will have to be completed by the LO/TC/LP regardless of where the loan was at in the process if a Conditional Commitment was not issued by 2/26, and New GUS findings will need to be resubmitted to Underwriting so loans may be submitted to RD for a Conditional Commitment

Please contact Production Support if you have any questions. USDA NEW GUS HB-1-3555, Chapter 9

 

Lending Announcement: January 22, 2021

Topics in the Announcement

Non-Borrowing Spouses, must sign the initial CD for rescindable refinances:

For Primary Refinances, all non-borrowing spouses and/or any non-borrowing party with ownership interest in the property (with the right to rescind) needs to sign the initials CD 3 days prior to closing as well as any redisclosed CDs prior to closing. This procedure only applies to rescindable refinances.

Please ensure the non-borrowing spouse/parties name, email, and eConsent (if eSigning) is provided as early as possible to prevent any delays in disclosure.

Smart Fees & Transfer Taxes

To streamline the initial disclosure procedure across all states, the compliance team will begin relying on and disclosing the transfer figures that are pulled in by Smart Fees.  Compliance will continue to double check the figures are accurate, but will no longer convert the transfer tax figures to Encompass equations.

Most states will not notice any change in procedure, but those operating in Florida will see a difference in how the transfer taxes are mapped on lines 1203, 1204, and 1205.

Encompass:

  • 1203 = Empty
  • 1204 = Doc/Mortgage Stamps & Intangible Tax
  • 1205 = Transfer Deed Tax

Smart Fees:

  • 1203 = Intangible
  • 1204 = Empty
  • 1205 = Doc/Mortgage Stamps & Transfer Deed Tax
    • Who pays (buyer or seller) for the Transfer Deed Tax can be determined when running Smart Fees.

 

Dynamic Data Management (DDM)

DDM is an Encompass feature that allows us to pre-set loan data based on loan criteria.   It can also be used to update mortgage insurance data as loan factors change.

Branch Fees: We will be using DDM to pre-set the 800 level branch fees based on the User Organization Code (OrgID) assigned to each branch.

DDM rules function differently than the Business Rules we are used to in Encompass.  They do not instantly change data, but rather will only fire upon save, and rewrite data during the saving process.  When activated for the 800 level fees, those fees will be editable for the branches, but if altered from the original specified amount, the rule will overwrite any changes and return the fee to the original amount upon saving.  DDM rules can be overridden on a loan level, but will require management approval to do so.

The following fees will be governed by this rule once active:

  • Origination Fee
  • Processing Fee
  • Underwriting Fee

We will begin to roll this out in the coming weeks.

        Mortgage Insurance:

On Conventional loans, DDM will still allow the PMI premium to be edited by the branch, but will auto-populate the supporting data such as number of months needed, and the cancellation at 78%.  Government loans are being tested, and more information will be provided once available.

Manufactured Home Tags

New manufactured homes contain both interior and exterior labels.   Over time, either or both may be removed by the owners.   When missing, we must verify the information from a company called IBTS.  https://lvr2.ibts.org/#/LandingPage  Their website calls the document for the exterior plate a “Label Verification Letter” and the interior plate the “Data Plate/Performance Certificate.    If both are missing there will be two underwriting conditions.   The conditions in Encompass have been reworded to match what the documents are called on the IBTS website.  We hope this change will make it clear the document(s) required for the loan.

Floify E-sign

Floify provides an in-house e-signature solution supporting customized fields from both the borrower and lender side and beginning February 1, 2021, the Floify E-Sign solution will replace DocuSign as the available function for “one off” documents (letters of explanation, appraisal delivery, etc.) requiring any e-signature.

**NOTE** Initial Disclosures and Re-Disclosures will be issued by the VDM Compliance Team through the DocuSign extension we have connected with Floify.

Loan teams can create an e-signature request directly in the borrower’s loan flow very similar to how you do now.   The loan’s borrower(s) will be notified that there is a new e-signature request awaiting their attention, and the borrower(s) will be prompted to login to their Floify account, which will then identify their signature role.

Once an e-signature request has been completed by all recipients, the document will be delivered to the yellow pending bucket in the Floify loan flow to await final review and approval.  Once accepted you will need to take the additional step of pushing the e-signed document into Encompass, it will not automatically push.

Attached is a tutorial on how to install Floify E-sign and create one-off Floify E-sign requests: Floify eSign Updated Training 1.19.21   Following is the link to the Floify Help Center which also provides a tutorial – but you do have to login to access it.  Please reach out to Production Support for assistance or with any questions.    https://help.floify.com/hc/en-us/articles/360048246912-Floify-E-Sign-Tutorial

FHA Case Number and Appraisal Transfers

There is significant information needed both by us and the other lender to successfully complete a transfer of an FHA Case number and appraisal.  Attached is a new form that can be used to obtain a transfer from another lender to VanDyk.  Also attached are updated instructions for transfers both from and to VanDyk Mortgage. FHA Appraisal Transfer Instructions updated 1-21-21FHA Case Number Transfer from another lender

Freddie Mac Matrix LTV’s updated to mirror Freddie Mac maximums

Revised matrix is attached: Freddie Mac Fixed Rate and ARM Conventional Matrix January 21, 2021

2020 W2’s

Loans closing on or after 2/1/2021 require the 2020 W2 or the year-end paystub.  Applications taken after 1/31, the 2020 W2 will be required prior to closing.

FHA Streamline Refinance Max Mortgage Worksheet

Attached please find an updated FHA Streamline worksheet with an additional line added to allow inclusion of escrow shortage and late fees: FHA Streamline refinance Worksheet 1.21.21

Income Calculation Worksheet

Attached please find our Income worksheet that has been updated to reflect 2021: 2021 Income Calculation Worksheet

Cutoffs

The updated Underwriting and Closing cutoff times are as follows:

Purchases:

  • Underwriting = Resubmitted by 4pm 4 business days prior to ECD.
  • Closing = Clear to Close by 8am 24 hours prior to your ECD.
    • Reminder, please be sure to have the following if close to cutoff:
      • Finals in the file (VOEs, HOI Re-verifications, etc).
      • No outstanding conditions
      • Schedule closing for afternoon on ECD if possible.

Refinance/Bond/Renovations:

  • Underwriting = Resubmitted by 4pm 5 business days prior to your ECD.
  • Closing = Clear to Close by 8am 48 hours prior to your ECD.

Moving an ECD – Request must meet cutoff:

If your loan file does not meet the above cutoffs your ECD will be adjusted by the pipeline manager (Amber Workman) or the closing department. Once your file is CTC you can request your ECD to be moved up, however the new ECD must meet the above closing cutoff at the time the request is made. Closing needs a minimum of 24hrs to accurately work a file once CTC.  So even if your file is CTC, if your ECD is inaccurate and needs to be moved up, the request to do so must be submitted by 8am 24hrs (Purchase) to 48 hours (Refi/Bond/Reno) prior to your ECD to be accommodated.

Wet Signed Docs – Timing Requirements

As a reminder, we require all time sensitive documents (LEs, CDs, TX 12 Day notice, etc.) wet signed by the borrowers to be uploaded into the eFolder before the document timing restrictions take effect. Given the lack of tracking/validation with wet sign documents Closing/Compliance will rely upon the eFolder upload date for timing purposes.

Tax Return and Transcripts Cheat Sheet updated for 2021

Attached please find our updated Cheat Sheet with guidance on tax returns and transcripts required based on application and note dates: 2021 Tax Return and Transcripts Cheat Sheet January 2021

FHA to Permit DACA Status

Effective January 19, 2021 FHA is permitting individuals classified under the “Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals” program (DACA) with the USCIS and are legally permitted to work in the U.S. are eligible to apply for mortgages backed by the FHA.   See attached FHA Info #21-04: DACA SFH_FHA_INFO_21-04

   

 

USDA Asset Accounts

 Two months statements for all/any asset accounts are required for the borrower, as well as an non-borrowing household member for review of possible income.

Hazard Insurance – Proof of Payment

 Reminder – Proof of payment is required on all current HOI policies if the premium is not being collected on the CD.  If no proof of payment is available, the full premium will be collected on the CD at closing.

Also, if the current HOI policy is expiring before the first payment due, the new premium amount will need to be collected on the CD.

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan LTV’s reflected by Encompass

The LTV shown at the top of the page in Encompass and also on the Transmittal Summary are not calculated correctly by Encompass.  You must rely upon the LTV reflected by the AUS in determining the required PMI Coverage etc.



Bond Loans

Flood policies must be NFIP for bond loans.   Private flood policies are not acceptable.

MSHDA

MSHA requires a Declaration Page for hazard policies (and also evidence of payment as published in the December announcement).

Please also note, they are currently 45 days out on reviews.


January 2021 Lending Announcement

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Corporate Communications

Lending Announcement: December 17, 2020

Topics in the Announcement

  • USDA Launches AskUSDA

The AskUSDA Contact Center will serve as the “one front door” for phone, chat, and web inquiries.   AskUSDA by phone at (833) ONE-USDA with representatives available 9:00 am – 5:30pm EST weekdays.  The website https://ask.usda.gov/ is available 24/7 and includes live chat agents available 10:00am-6:00pm EST on weekdays.  Inquiries can also be sent via email at any time to askusda@usda.gov

 

  • Conforming Loan Limit Increases

As published by Corporate Communication on 11/24/2020, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan limits were increased to $548,250 for 2021.   Links are provided on the attached with full breakdown for every county in the US.   We will allow loans to close on or after December 21st utilizing the 2021 loan limits.  Locks will need to be valid through 1/1/2021. fannie mae 2020-41hsgml

FHA published their increased loan limits in ML 2020-41 attached.  Their new loan limits are effective for case numbers assigned on or after January 1, 2021. FHA 2021 Mortgage Limits 2020-41hsgml

  • MSHDA – (Michigan State Housing Development) Hazard Insurance payments

All closing packages must contain proof of payment for the first year’s premium of hazard insurance before the loan will be purchased by MSHDA.  Hazard premiums paid at closing on the CD must be sent to the insurance company and included in the CD with acceptable documentation listed below.

  • Policy stating premium amount paid in full
  • Canceled check, copy of front and back
  • Paid receipt from insurance agent or insurance company

 

  • VanDyk to VanDyk Refinance – Escrow Rollover Agreement

When closing a refinance of a mortgage currently serviced by VanDyk Mortgage where the borrower requests the escrows from the current loan be rolled over into the new loan, an Escrow Rollover Agreement must be signed by the borrower and provided to VanDyk Servicing Department along with the payoff request.   The form is in Encompass print menu, Custom Forms, and is titled VanDyk Mortgage (Escrow Rollover Agreement).  A sample copy is attached. Escrow Rollover Request from Encompass Print Menu

  • Refinances Accepted into Underwriting

Effective January 1, 2021: we will accept refinances into Underwriting regardless of lock status.

  • Closers Assigned at Approval and Clear to Close

To more evenly distribute the workload, the closing department will begin assigning closers in the Approval and Clear to Close Milestones, instead of Resubmittal.  There will be exceptions depending on state, file circumstances, or department capacity; however, most files will see closers assigned in these milestones.  This change will not impact closing turn times, cutoffs, or rush capacity.

  • Changing Homeowners Insurance after Closing

When discussing Homeowner Insurance options with your clients: if they are talking about changing insurances prior to 90 days from the due date, they will need to pay the new premium out of pocket. Then the old insurance carrier will send them their refund.  Any recasting of their payment will occur at the time of the normal annual impound analysis.

 

December 2020 Lending Announcement

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Lending Announcement: November 19, 2020

Topics in the Announcement

  • Texas Attorney Submission Procedure Revised

Closing Department will now allow the submission of closing docs to the Texas attorney to take place at the Resubmittal Milestone if the following conditions are met:

  1. TRID has been cleared.
  2. Closer is Assigned.
  3. All required documentation is in the file (See attached TX Attorney Submission List).
  4. Closing Date and Loan Amount have been confirmed with all parties.
    1. Attorney Docs are Closing Date and Loan Amount sensitive.  Changes after initial submission will require re-submission and updated attorney docs, which may cause delays.

 

  • Texas and Arizona Bond programs now available

We are pleased to expand our bond programs to include Arizona Industrial Development Authority (AzIDA), and Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA).

Attached please find the Bond Program Lock Sheets for both programs.   Also attached are Bond Procedures that provide locking instructions, fee requirements , and a link to training.

 

  • URLA Video

Now that everyone has had a chance to look at the new 1003 that is coming the first quarter of 2021, here is a video giving you a glance of how it is going to look and react in Encompass.    https://seafile.vdmc.net/f/607e0ce2c831455cbe10/?dl=1

 

  • Transcript Cheat Sheet Revised

Information added that business tax returns are not required unless they have been amended.   Additionally, tax returns that are amended (personal or business) are not accepted after the application date. 2020 Tax Return and Transcripts Cheat Sheet REV NOV 2020

 

  • COVID-19 Guidance for Self-Employed Borrowers

Based on recent updates from the Agencies, we have revised our COVID-19 guidance for self-employed borrowers as follows – Three (3) months business statements are required with new submissions to underwriting on or after 12/14/2020.  Covid – 19 Guideline Clarification and Product Updates Nov 2020

 

  • Section 184/Native American Trust Land loans are discontinued effective immediately

First Tribal is no longer offering this program.    We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

 

  • Insurance Guidelines Revised

USDA allows an exception to their deductible rule of the greater of 1% or $1000 if the insurer does not offer a deductible this low.  This typically will only apply to wind/hail coverage.    Evidence from the insurer they do not offer a lower deductible will be required. Insurance Guidelines NOV 2020

 

  • FEMA Lookup for Disasters

If your DRIVE Report is indicating that you property is within an area that has possibly been declared, you can determine whether or not additional documentation will be needed based on review of FEMA site.   Underwriting does not rely on the DRIVE Report.  FEMA websites are reviewed.   FEMA Address lookup is:  https://www.disasterassistance.gov/get-assistance/address-lookup    FEMA Designated Areas Lookup is:  https://www.fema.gov/disasters/disaster-declarations

If the county is NOT in a declared MAJOR Disaster Area, we will not need any further documentation.

If the county IS in a declared MAJOR Disaster Area and the incident date is BEFORE our appraisal, the appraisal must indicate no damage.  If using PIW and incident date is more than 120 days after our application date, no appraisal or FEMA inspection required.

If the county IS in a declared MAJOR Disaster Area, and the incident date is AFTER the appraisal OR within 120 days of our application date using a (PIW), we will require an appraisal, appraisal update, or FEMA Inspection.

 

Group Email for Disclosure Approvals

Did you know that you can create a group email for disclosure approvals?

This is a great way to ensure everyone who needs to review a proforma LE/CD is included on the approval email from Compliance/Closing.  This works well for both individual Los as well as larger teams that have the same processors, TCs, or LOAs copied on all their disclosure approvals.

If you are interested, please reach out to IT with a list of recipients you would like included.  This new email address can also be configured to auto populate in LE page 0/4 for all your future disclosures.

*

VA loan paying off current VA loan

Unless the closings are back-to-back, the entitlement must be restored prior to closing.  Exception for up to five business days prior to current closing can be made if evidence is provided by the branch the restoration has been requested from VA.

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CAIVRS

We do Not need a CAIVRS for a Non-Credit Qualifying FHA Streamline

*

Appraisal Waiver Form

We do not need an appraisal waiver signed for any FHA Streamline – Credit Qualifying or Non-Credit Qualifying

*

Encompass 1003 Date Entry Error

We are seeing the 1003 Page 1 regarding income/assets of Borrower’s spouse often answered incorrectly.   We think this is because only a portion of the verbiage is shown in Encompass.   The top box should be marked any time there is more than one borrower on the loan.  The bottom box should only be marked on a Government loan in a Community Property state where we are using the non-borrowing spouse’s liabilities to qualify the borrower.    List of Community Property States are available at:  https://www.investopedia.com/personal-finance/which-states-are-community-property-states/


Nov 2020 Lending Announcement

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Lending Announcement: October 27, 2020

Topics in the Announcement

 

  • New URLA – Coming Soon!

In Q1 2021, the new URLA Form 1003 will be coming. Please see attached memo and additional PDF previews of the new URLA sections.

 

  • Phasing Out UWScenarios Email Address

On November 1, the UWScenarios@vandykmortgage.com email inbox will be phased out in favor of the AskVanDyk.com Escalation form. Questions submitted through the form will provide our underwriting leaders with additional information that can help answer your questions more efficiently. The form will also decrease duplicate tickets/emails. In addition, as we publish more answered questions, many of your inquiries may be solved with a search in AskVanDyk.

As a reminder, all pages and search results in AskVanDyk will have: “Did this answer your question? YES or NO.” Clicking “No” will allow you to escalate your question, as seen below. Please see AskVanDyk Training Guide for additional information.

If you have any questions or need login credentials for AskVanDyk, please email Production Support.  Thank you!

  • PMI Companies – Contract Underwriting

In an effort to provide you with the best service and underwriting turn times possible, we now have an opportunity to utilize contract underwriting for our conventional loans with mortgage insurance. ARCH, Radian and Genworth (GE) are each ready to accept files from VDM. If you have any refinances in the pipeline with PMI you can submit directly to Radian, Arch and Genworth. We will begin publishing the MI turn times on our daily e-mails.

Attached are how to guides for the 3 companies we can submit to, as well as instructions for how to work through the milestones in Encompass when submitting to PMI. (Utilizing the MI companies for Contract Underwriting) You will submit files to MI in Encompass and work the loans through CTC from the MI company. Once the loans are CTC with MI the loan will be reviewed by the underwriting team for CTC. Please email Production Support if you have any questions on the procedures or file flow.

Be advised, you will only send files to one of these 3 companies which you have pulled an MI quote for.  You wouldn’t send a file to ARCH with a Radian MI quote, instead Arch to Arch, Radian to Radian and GE to GE

If you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact ProductionSupport@vandykmortgage.com.

  • Fannie Mae Selling Announcement SEL-2020-06

Fannie Mae has made updates to the Selling Guide. The attached introduces significant changes in condo guidelines for condotels, provides red flags for recognizing when a project may be leasing their facilities and clarifies that the master association also must own all its own facilities, and adds that pre-litigation activity also must meet Fannie Mae litigation guidance. Updated Condo Full Review Conventional Matrix  is attached, as well as a summary of the changes (Project Standards). 

  • Freddie Mac Guide Updates

Freddie Mac has updated their HELOC calculation options and PUD insurance verification requirements – please see attached Freddie Mac Bulletin 2020-38 for details.

  • Cash Out Refinance – Credit Score Requirement Update

We are now allowing for cash out refinances to meet the Agency minimum FICO requirements. New Matrices:

USDA – CAIVRS

You do not need a separate CAIVRS if you have GUS Findings.  We will use the CAIVRS that is included in GUS.

 

Freddie Mac LPA – Tips!

When running LP with Sarma/Network Credit Services, you will need to enter a branch code on the order screen. You can find your branch code right on your credit report:

LP requires alphanumeric credit reference numbers, so remove the hyphen from your reference number – i.e. BUEBL1234567

 

Floify Resources

We have compiled several Floify training videos and PDFs at AskVanDyk.com – click here to access.

As a reminder, if you need access to AskVanDyk/Vamba, email Production Support.

 

October 2020 Lending Announcement

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Lending Announcement: September 25, 2020

Third quarter of 2020 is almost over, and we are feeling the strain of the increased production and COVID restrictions, and from all indications these conditions will continue for a while.  To update you on what we are doing in the Lending department to get back to our normal turn time and service commitments.

Richard Passanante has been promoted to Asst. Chief Operating Officer.  His focus will be the Lending Department starting with staffing, streamlining the process, and improving communication throughout the departments.  Rich is a dedicated hard-working individual and has already shown that he will excel in this role.

Rich has been diligently working on finding underwriters and has seven new underwriters starting in the next two weeks and more offers in process. We are also working on procedures for the option for processors to send your conventional MI deals directly to a few MI companies if you wish, and other options for getting the backlog caught up.

Lindsey will be working on training our underwriting staff on our various products, so we have complete coverage and creating a support system to allow them to improve their workflow and environment.

Ryan has hired people for Closing and Compliance, and we are starting to see improved turn times in those areas.

Your Regional Managers are assisting with recruiting efforts for new underwriters.  If you have any referrals, please send to your RM and they will work with HR and Rich to schedule an interview.  We will continue to use all resources available to us to get these new volume levels to be our new normal and not an exception.

Thank you for your patience and hard work.  We are a team and we rise and fall as a team and we look forward to getting back to the amazing service you have always counted on.

 

Topics in the Announcement

  • Power of Attorney and Trust Approvals

Effective immediately, please email POA.Trust@vandykmortgage.com with requests for approval of Power of Attorneys and Trusts.   Please allow at least 24 hours for review.   Reminder, we need an executed Hardship Letter and copy of the Power Of Attorney for POA approvals, and need a signed Attorney Opinion Letter for Trust Approvals.   Attached are the POA checklist and the Closing in a Trust checklist to reference VanDyk’s requirements: POWER OF ATTORNEY APPROVAL CHECKLIST revised August 10 2016 | CLOSING IN A TRUST (1)

  • Work Number VOE’s are now being obtained through Equifax

Guidance is attached showing how to order these within Encompass.   Please do not order using The Work Number website.   VanDyk Corporate only pays for VOE’s that are ordered through Encompass.   Encompass The Work Number Guidance Sept 2020

  • USDA Rural Development fee structure for coming year published

The fees for the coming year have remained unchanged at 1% upfront guarantee fee and .35% annual fee for both purchase and refinance transactions.   See also attached regarding yearly lapse in funding.   The lapse will have no effect on our loan flow or procedures. USDA Fees Fiscal year Oct 2020 through Oct 2021

  • Flood Certificates are now to be obtained from Corelogic

Please begin choosing Corelogic for your Flood Certificates.   Effective October 1, 2020, Corelogic will be the only flood certificate company available to be chosen in Encompass.

  • Reminders From Servicing

The Servicing Department would like to remind everyone of the attached Recast Policy, and the attached PMI Cancellation Requirements as we have had a number of inquiries of recent: Recast Policy and Guidelines (external) | PMI Cancellation and Removal Policy and Guidelines (External)

Also, VanDyk Mortgage Corporation does not offer any form of bi-weekly payment options.  Any third party providers who offer this service are not affiliated, and we ask that no one actively directs a borrower to enroll in these services.

  • Appraisals imported into Encompass from Mercury

Changes have been made to streamline the import process of appraisals from Mercury to Encompass.  There is no longer a need to exclude any information.   Leave all included items checked as-is.     Some fields now show greyed out.

  • USDA Chapter 6

Attached please find USDA’s changes regarding eligible loans purposes. RD-GRH-AdvanceCopyChapter6

 

Compliance and Closing Turn Time/Cutoffs:

  1. Initials:
    1. 24 hours from submission of LE page 0
  1. Redisclosures:
    1. 24 hours from submission of LE page 4 – Either LE or CD.
  1. TRID Reviews:
    1. 24hrs from TRID Ready date.
      1. Resub+ will be given priority – Will accommodate same day TRID if submitted prior to 2pm EST and rush is requested.
      2. Files worked max of 10 calendar days from ECD.
  1. Initial CD:
    1. CDs issuance depends on milestone.
      1. Resub+
        1. A closer will be assigned and will issue your CD within 24-48hrs of clearing TRID depending on volume and ECD.
      2. Cond. Approval
        1. Branch must request an unbalanced CD through LE page 4. Compliance will issue your CD within 24-48hrs depending on volume and ECD.
  1. Closing Package – CTC:
    1. Must be CTC by 3pm 48hrs prior to closing – ECD will be move out once cutoff is missed.
    2. Rush Closings:
      1. Rush closings are becoming increasingly difficult to accommodate and if the file misses the CTC cutoff it is likely your ECD will need to be extended. However, if a rush is needed a rush request will be reviewed using the following criteria:
        1. All rushes must be approved by management (Monique Garcia). The closer on the file cannot authorize a rush closing, it must go through management.
        2. Purchases will be given priority over refinances, however even purchase rushes cannot be guaranteed.
  • Bond Loans cannot be rushed due to their complexity to close.

End of Month Closing Conditions:

  • 9/30 – Reserved for purchases and non-rescindable refinances only.
  • Saturday Closings – 9/26 will be open for closing primary refinances if your file is CTC by 8am Friday the 25th.

NEXT Month – October Closing Conditions:

  • Saturday Closings – 10/24 will be open for closing primary refinances if your file is CTC by 8am Friday the 10/23.
  • 10/30 – Reserved for purchases and non-rescindable refinances only.

 

Did You Know

Title Company Searches in Encompass – Custom View

Attached please find instructions on how to create and save a custom view to find VanDyk’s approved title companies.   Once created, use of this view will save you a great deal of time and effort.

These instructions can also be used for creating custom views for any business file category:
Encompass Approved Title Company Search Tutorial Sept 2020

IRS TAX TRANSCRIPTS and AMENDED RETURNS

Tax transcript orders should be placed as soon as possible at the start of the process to prevent delays with Underwriting Final Approval.  If a borrower has amended any return used for qualification, tax transcripts will always be required to reflect the amendment.  Amended returns are not accepted if the amendment takes place after loan application.  A borrower cannot amend tax returns to qualify.

 

September 2020 Lending Announcement

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