The Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program (SFHGLP) is authorized by section 502(h) of the Housing Act of 1949, (42 U.S.C. 1472(h)), as amended. 7 CFR part 3555 sets forth the regulation requirements of the SFHGLP which includes policies regarding origination, servicing, holding, and liquidating SFHGLP loans .  The SFHGLP makes loan guarantees to provide low- and moderate- income persons in rural areas an opportunity to own decent, safe, and sanitary dwellings and related facilities .  Approved lenders make the initial eligibility determinations, and the Agency reviews those determinations to make a final eligibility decision .    

The Agency proposes the following changes to 7 CFR parts 3555: (1) up date the current guidance regarding contractors and builders; (2) offer an alternative for title insurance for manufactured homes located on tribal land; and (3) establish  a rehabilitation loan program. T he expected benefits include increased accessibility to housing programs, improved borrower and property eligibility standards, increased loan making by increasing purchase options, an aligned SFHGLP with other agencies and government sponsored enterprises, and enhanced overall customer experience within the SFHGLP.