On May 5, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”) extended loan origination flexibilities offered by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac until at least June 30th. The extended flexibilities aim to help borrowers during the COVID-19 pandemic by facilitating loan closings and include: (1) alternative appraisals on purchase and rate term refinance loans; (2) alternative methods for verifying employment; and (3) expanding the use of power of attorney and remote online notarizations. Release.