Partners: Updates for Real Estate Agents

Buyers represented by agents at Compass, Coldwell Banker, Sotheby's, Century 21, Corcoran, ERA, Better Homes and Gardens and other listed brands qualify for 40 bps of brand alliance pricing through Rocket Pro, our wholesale channel. Stacked with Rocket Pro's current 60 bps purchase special, that's 100 bps as of October 2, 2026: about $5,000 on a $500,000 purchase loan. Subject to change without notice and program guidelines.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's new appraisal report is mandatory November 2, 2026. Appraisers now document more of the home, including updates and upgrades, room-level condition and energy features. Some lenders have already switched; lenders that aren't ready need an approved GSE policy exception to keep using the old format through May 19, 2027.

Lenders selling to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may now use VantageScore 4.0 instead of Classic FICO on conventional loans, and it's also available on VA loans. FHA is expected January 1, 2027. The lender chooses the model, and a buyer's score can come out higher or lower.

The 2026 baseline conforming limit is $832,750 for a one-unit home. We're already closing loans at the anticipated 2027 numbers, up to $850,000 for one unit, ahead of FHFA's official announcement in late November. Two- to four-unit limits move up as well.

Fannie Mae changed how rent from a buyer's current home counts when they keep it as a rental. A lease is no longer used. Market rent is documented with an appraisal, a comparable rent schedule (Form 1007) or market tools such as MLS, Zillow or Redfin. Lenders take 75% of the gross rent and subtract the home's full payment. Lenders may apply it now; it's required by December 1, 2026.

Fannie Mae's 2026 condo changes retired the Limited Review, so most established projects now go through a Full Review. Collect the HOA budget, reserve study, master insurance certificate and litigation disclosures when you take the listing, not three weeks before closing.