Overview
- FHFA Director Bill Pulte said the agency is working on a 50-year mortgage concept, but no policy design, rollout details or official White House release has been provided.
- Analysts note that current qualified‑mortgage rules born from Dodd‑Frank prohibit 40‑ and 50‑year terms, suggesting regulatory changes and possibly congressional action would be required.
- Housing economists say extending terms would trim monthly payments yet substantially increase total interest paid and slow equity buildup, with potential default and interest‑rate risks.
- Experts caution that without boosting housing supply, greater borrowing capacity could push prices higher and offset any monthly‑payment relief for first‑time buyers.
- Reaction has been mixed, including opposition from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, while questions persist over lender participation, investor appetite and whether non‑QM versions would carry higher rates.