USDA Invites Public Comment on Proposal to Increase Awareness of Homeownership Opportunities for Low- and Very -Low-Income Rural Residents

WASHINGTON, D.C. – August 26, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — USDA is accepting comments on a proposed rule to increase awareness about USDA’s Single Family Housing Direct Loan Program, which provides homeownership opportunities to low- and very-low-income rural residents. Under the proposed rule, Agencycertified loan application packagers would provide applicants with support to ensure their applications are complete and accurate.

These packagers would be eligible individuals working for qualified nonprofits or public agencies. A USDA pilot effort that started in 2010 found that using loan application packagers who have the necessary training and experience and who work through a prescribed structure can shorten the Agency’s application processing time.

The deadline for comments is October 22, 2013. For more information, see page 52460 of the
August 23, 2013 Federal Register, or visit http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-08-
23/html/2013-20447.htm

#

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination,
write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400
Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free
Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users)