Source: https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/real_estate/uniform_act/policy_and_guidance/side-by-side/uasbssube_a.cfm
Timestamp: 2015-10-10 14:36:39
Document Index: 481521093

Matched Legal Cases: ['§24', '§24', '§ 24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24', '§24']

[Archived] Subpart E - Side-By-Side - Policy and Guidance - Uniform Act - Real Estate - FHWA
Note: This is archived information. For the current version, see uasbssub06.cfm
SUBPART E -- REPLACEMENT HOUSING PAYMENTS -- GENERAL 49 CFR 24.2(d). Can a replacement housing payment computation be based upon a comparable property which may have a minor decent, safe, and sanitary deficiency?
If the availability of comparable replacement properties is limited, the displacing agency may base a replacement housing payment on an available property having minor DSS deficiencies, provided the deficiencies can be easily corrected for a nominal amount. Use of non-DSS properties with minor deficiencies should be limited to situations where a windfall or excessive expenditure can be avoided and/or when housing of last resort is needed to relocate the displaced person into comparable housing. The payment computation must reflect the cost to correct the deficiencies. If such housing is used to meet the "make available" requirement, the housing must be available and DSS at the time of the move.
84. §24.2(a)(6). Can a replacement housing payment computation be based upon a comparable property that may have a minor decent, safe, and sanitary (DSS) deficiency? If the availability of comparable replacement properties is limited, the agency may base a replacement housing payment on an available property having minor DSS deficiencies, provided the deficiencies can be easily corrected for a nominal amount. Use of non-DSS properties with minor deficiencies should be limited to unusual situations. The payment computation must reflect the cost to correct the deficiencies supported by contractor bids or estimates. If such housing is used to meet the "make available" requirement, the housing must be available and DSS at the time of the move. In cases where a displacee moves to a non-DSS replacement dwelling when comparable DSS housing is available, the displacee must bring the replacement up to DSS standards within 12 months in order to receive a replacement housing payment.
2. How does the change in §24.2(a)(6)(viii)(C) [part of the definition of comparable replacement dwelling] change the treatment of "less than 90-day occupants" or "subsequent occupants"? Displaced persons failing to meet the length of occupancy requirements continue to be eligible for relocation benefits under last resort housing. What has changed is how the benefit is calculated. Benefits for low-income tenants will still be calculated using the 30% of income rule contained in § 24.402(b)(2). For others who are not low income, the calculation will be rent-to-rent. The reason for the change, as noted in the Preamble to the final rule, is to ensure consistent treatment of displacees. Across an agency's programs, the net effect of the change in the 30% rule is expected to be a reduction in financial liability. However, with respect to some individual displacees who do not meet the length of occupancy requirements, the calculation of benefits may result in a higher payment under the final rule than under the former rule. Agencies may wish to consider using loss-of-rent agreements to limit and manage financial liability when they believe that there is substantial risk that a subsequent occupant situation will occur.
If you require further clarification on the less than 90-day occupants or subsequent occupants, please contact your funding agency.
86. §24.2(a)(6)(viii)(C).How does the change in part of the definition of comparable replacement dwelling change the treatment of "less than 90-day occupants" or "subsequent occupants"? Displaced persons failing to meet the length of occupancy requirements continue to be eligible for relocation benefits under last resort housing. What has changed is how the benefit is calculated. Benefits for low-income tenants will still be calculated using the 30% of income rule contained in §24.402(b)(2). For others who are not low income, the calculation will be rent-to-rent. The reason for the change is to ensure consistent treatment of displacees. Across an agency's programs, the net effect of the change in the 30% rule is expected to be a reduction in financial liability. However, with respect to some individual displacees who do not meet the length of occupancy requirements, the calculation of benefits may result in a higher payment than in the past. Agencies may wish to consider using loss-of-rent agreements to limit and manage financial liability when they believe that there is substantial risk that a subsequent occupant situation will occur.
Under the last resort housing provision §24.404(c) and the downpayment assistance provision §24.402(c)(1), the less than 90-day occupant or subsequent occupant rental assistance can be converted to a downpayment to purchase at the discretion of the agency on a case-by-case basis. However, the payment to a displaced homeowner shall not exceed the amount the owner would receive under §24.401(b) if he or she met the 180-day occupancy requirement. The agency shall apply this discretion in a uniform and consistent manner. If you require further clarification on the less than 90-day occupants or subsequent occupants, please contact your funding agency. 49 CFR 24.2(f)(6). How should the replacement housing payment be computed and paid when accommodations need to be provided for a displaced person with disabilities?
Rental replacement housing could be provided in the same manner, with the consent of the landlord, or the rental assistance payment could be increased to appropriately compensate the landlord for any necessary modifications or accommodations necessary for the replacement property to be considered DSS. If a financial hardship would be created for the displaced person, the agency could provide an advance replacement housing payment for the needed modifications.
The fixed payment would be based on the net earnings of the business at the dis-placement site for the actual period of operation projected to an annual rate. The existing net earnings income data would be extrapolated and used to project what the net earnings could have been if the business had been in business for a full two years. If the business is seasonal, this fact should be taken into account in the computations.
87. §24.2(a)(8)(vii). How should the replacement housing payment be computed and paid when accommodations need to be provided for a displaced person with disabilities? The regulation permits sufficient flexibility for each agency to develop procedures for accommodating the needs of a displaced person with disabilities. The replacement housing payment computation may: (1) be based on a dwelling designed for physically disabled persons, (2) include the estimated costs of any needed modifications, or (3) contain provisions for the adjustment to reflect the actual cost of modifications to the replacement housing payment computation.
Rental replacement housing should be provided in the same manner, with the consent of the landlord, or the rental assistance payment could be increased to appropriately compensate the landlord for any necessary modifications or accommodations necessary for the replacement property to be considered DSS. If a financial hardship would be created for the displaced person, the agency could provide an advance replacement housing payment for the needed modifications. OWNER-OCCUPANTS
If the replacement housing property is a part of a property that contains another dwelling unit and/or space used for non-residential purposes or is located on a tract which is significantly larger than typical for residential purposes, must there be an adjustment to the purchase price of the replacement property to reflect the cost of the replacement dwelling for the replacement housing payment computation?
When the replacement property contains another dwelling unit and/or space used for non-residential (commercial/industrial) purposes, an adjustment to the price of the property shall be made to reflect the cost of the replacement dwelling and a typical residential site.
When the replacement property does not contain another dwelling unit or space used for non-residential purposes, but is significantly larger than a typical residential site, an adjustment to the price of the property shall be made only if, in the displacing agency's judgement, a portion of the property constitutes an agricultural or other business use. The adjustment shall be made to reflect the cost of the replacement dwelling and a typical residential site.
In determining the need for an adjustment, the agency shall apply its policy uniformly to persons in like circumstances. The agency should be aware that the land in excess of a typical site may have a different unit value than land valued for residential use on a typical site. 88. §24.401(c). If the replacement property purchased by the displaced person is a part of a property that contains another dwelling unit and/or space used for non-residential purposes or is located on a tract which is significantly larger than typical for residential purposes, must there be an adjustment to the purchase price of the replacement property to reflect the cost of the replacement dwelling for the replacement housing payment computation? When the residential replacement property contains another dwelling unit and/or space used for non-residential (commercial/industrial) purposes, an adjustment to the price of the property shall be made to reflect the cost of the replacement dwelling and a typical dwelling site. When the replacement residential property does not contain another dwelling unit or space used for non-residential purposes, but is significantly larger than a typical residential site, an adjustment to the price of the property may be appropriate.
In determining the need for an adjustment, the agency shall apply its policy uniformly to persons in like circumstances. The agency should be aware that the land in excess of a typical site might have a different unit value than land valued for residential use on a typical site. 49 CFR 24.2(p)(1). Is a displaced person who holds a life estate in the displacement property an owner or a tenant?
A displaced person who holds a life estate is considered to be an owner. A person who holds a life estate has a right to occupy a property for life. Many times, a life estate is retained by a person who has been granted such right by a grantor or who conveys the remainder interest to another person. The computed replacement housing payment may depend upon the distribution of the acquisition payment in accordance with state law. Each agency should develop procedures in accordance with applicable law. The replacement housing payment computation should be sufficient to enable the displaced person to relocate as an owner with an interest at least equivalent to the interest held prior to the acquisition of the property.
The payment computation will be based on the total amount of the acquisition payment for a dwelling comparable to the acquired dwelling. As an alternative, the agency may acquire a dwelling and provide a "life estate" to the displaced person. Any such agreement should clearly establish the responsibilities and rights of each party. 89. §24.2(a)(20). Is a displaced person who holds a life estate in the displacement property an owner or a tenant? A displaced person who holds a life estate is considered to be an owner. A person who holds a life estate has the right to occupy the property for life. A life estate may have been created and retained by a person who conveyed the remainder interest to another person; or the life estate may have been granted by another person. It makes no difference how the life estate was created. However, the replacement housing payment may depend upon the distribution of the acquisition payment in accordance with state law. Each agency should develop procedures in accordance with applicable law. The replacement housing payment computation should be sufficient to enable the displaced person to relocate as an owner with an interest at least equivalent to the interest held prior to the acquisition of the property by the agency. The payment computation will be based on the total amount of the acquisition payment for a dwelling comparable to the acquired dwelling. As an alternative, the agency may acquire a dwelling and provide a life estate to the displaced person. All such agreements should clearly establish the responsibilities and rights of each party. 49 CFR 24.401(c)(4). When an owner-occupant retains the displacement dwelling and moves it to the remainder or to a previously owned tract of land, is the historical cost or the current fair market value of the replacement site used as the "acquisition cost" for the RHP computation? The acquisition cost will be based on the current fair market value of the replacement site for residential use as determined by the agency. If an agency uses the buildable lot procedure in accordance with 24.403(a)(3), the value of the buildable remainder will have been added to the acquisition cost of the displacement dwelling for purposes of computing the replacement housing payment.
Moved to Question #91
49 CFR 24.403(a)(2). Can an alternative procedure which would enable the displaced person to replace a major exterior attribute be utilized for determining the replacement housing payment in cases where the comparable replacement dwelling site lacks a major exterior attribute of the displacement dwelling?
No. Section 24.403(a)(2) requires that the value of the attribute be subtracted from the acquisition price of the displacement dwelling for purposes of computing the payment if the comparable replacement dwelling site lacks a major exterior attribute. The agency should always attempt to locate a comparable dwelling with the attribute before selecting a dwelling without the attribute.
Moved to Question #106
49 CFR 24.401(c). How much money must an owner-occupant with a partial interest in the acquired property spend in order to receive the maximum computed supplemental payment?
90. §24.401(c). How much money must an owner-occupant with a partial interest in the acquired property spend in order to receive the maximum computed supplemental payment? The owner-occupant with a partial interest must spend his/her share of the acquisition payment plus the computed supplemental payment in order to receive the maximum payment. 49 CFR Appendix A, Subpart E, reference Section 24.404(b). How do you relocate a partial owner-occupant who cannot afford to finance a replacement dwelling? Can a direct loan under the provision of Section 24.404(c) be provided?
If an agency determines that the relocation of a partial owner-occupant should be as an owner, the agency may provide a direct loan, lien or other financial assistance under Section 24.404(c) if other financing is not available to the person, in addition to the computed replacement housing payment. A partial owner-occupant who cannot afford to purchase a comparable replacement housing may be relocated as a tenant and provided a rental assistance payment in accordance with Section 24.402.
Moved to Question #109
49 CFR 24.403(c). Will the purchase and occupancy of a motor home or a boat meet the requirement for "Purchase (of) a replacement dwelling?"
A motor home or a boat capable of providing living accommodations may be considered a replacement dwelling if:
(A) The motor home or boat is purchased and occupied as the "primary" place of residence,
(B) It is located on a purchased or leased site and connected to all necessary utilities for functioning as a housing unit on the date of the displacing agency's inspection, and
(C) The dwelling, as sited, meets all local, State, and Federal requirements for a DSS dwelling. It should be noted that the regulations of some local jurisdictions will not permit the consideration of these vehicles as DSS dwellings.
A motor home or a boat designed to provide living accommodations may also meet the requirement of renting a replacement dwelling if it is occupied as the "primary" place of residence and qualifies under (B) and (C) above.
Moved to Question #108
49 CFR 24.403(a)(1). May an agency develop a statewide average percentage adjustment to be used for adjusting comparable property list prices to probable selling prices?
No. An agency must adjust asking prices for the specific project or program area based on information appropriate for DSS, comparable dwellings for sale in the same area, and price range as the acquired dwelling. The use of historic differences in average list and sales prices in an area may not reflect the impact of the project on the prices of the potential replacement dwellings needed by displaced persons. The use of a price and comparability "band" or "range" will provide the most accurate information. When seeking to adjust the asking price of a comparable replacement dwelling, the agency is required to provide information to thedisplaced person about the negotiation techniques necessary to acquire residential property for less than the asking price.
MORTGAGE AND INCIDENTAL COSTS FOR PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT DWELLING ( Owners and Tenants) Title Deleted
49 CFR 24.401(d)(3). If the interest rate charged for a new mortgage exceeds the prevailing interest rate because the displaced person is a poor credit risk or for other similar reasons, may the actual rate be utilized when determining the amount of the mortgage interest differential payment?
The interest rate for a new mortgage should generally not exceed the current range of prevailing mortgage interest rates of lending institutions in the area of the replacement dwelling. If the displaced person's unique circumstances require payment of a higher interest rate and the agency determines that the additional cost could prevent the displaced person from obtaining comparable housing, the required rate may be used. The file should contain justification for the rate used.
Moved to Question #92
49 CFR 24.401(e). May the agency limit the reimbursement for all incidental expenses to those which would have been incurred incident to the purchase of a comparable replacement dwelling?
No. However, the incidental expenses of owner-occupants can be limited to the expenses that would have been necessary for purchase of a comparable replacement dwelling for owner's or mortgagee's evidence of title, state revenue or documentary stamps, and sales or transfer taxes. Participation in all incidental expenses should be limited to those that are actual, reasonable, and necessary and required by the mortgagee or necessary for the protection of the owner. For example, an owner who buys without a mortgage should be entitled to title insurance, termite and building inspections, surveys, and any other reasonable items that would protect his or her investment.
In accordance with 24.402(c)(2) and 24.404, tenants are eligible to receive reimbursement for incidental expenses related to the purchase of a replacement dwelling to the extent that the total payment does not exceed the amount of the computed rental assistance or housing of last resort payment. Moved to Question #95
49 CFR 24.401(e). Which of the incidental expenses for purchase of a replacement dwelling can be limited to what would be required to obtain a new mortgage in the same amount as the remaining balance of the mortgage on the acquired dwelling?
Mortgage guarantee insurance premiums, origination and assumption fees, purchaser's points, and any other like expenses that are based on the amount of the mortgageobtained can be limited. These are the same payments that would be limited for computation of increased mortgage interest costs. Computations would be based on the lesser of the remaining mortgage balance on the acquired dwelling or the mortgage obtained on the replacement dwelling. Moved to Question #96
49 CFR 24.401(e). Can a lump-sum payment for mortgage guarantee insurance be included as an incidental expense?
Yes. Required lump-sum payments for mortgage guarantee insurance may be included as part of the mortgage interest differential (MID) payment. If they are paid as an incidental expense to an owner-occupant, any payment made should be based upon the computed replacement mortgage for MID purposes or the new mortgage amount, whichever is less. Payments to tenants may be made if the computed rental assistance payment is sufficient to cover this expense. Moved to Question #97
49 CFR 24.402(c). What are the limitations on the payment of incidental expenses for a tenant who elects to purchase a replacement dwelling?
All incidental expenses actually incurred by a tenant for the purchase of a replacement dwelling (customarily paid by the buyer) in accordance with 24.401(e) can be included in the computation of down payment assistance to the extent they do not exceed the amount available for down payment assistance.
Moved to Question #99
49 CFR 24.402(c)(2). Are loan origination fees incurred by a tenant in the purchase of a replacement dwelling eligible for reimbursement as incidental expenses?
Yes. Sections 24.401(e)(3) and (9) provides for payment of loan origination fees and other similar costs the agency determines to be incidental to the purchase. The total payment for a tenant may not exceed the computed rental assistance payment or $5,250, whichever is greater.
Moved to Question #100
TENANTS and other 90-day occupants
49 CFR 24.401(c)(4). When an owner-occupant retains the displacement dwelling and moves it to the remainder or to a previously owned tract of land, is the historical cost or the current fair market value of the replacement site used as the "acquisition cost" for the RHP computation? The acquisition cost will be based on the current fair market value of the replacement site for residential use as determined by the agency. If an agency uses the buildable lot procedure in accordance with 24.403(a)(3), the value of the buildable remainder will have been added to the acquisition cost of the displacement dwelling for purposes of computing the replacement housing payment. 91. §24.401(c)(2). When an owner-occupant retains the displacement dwelling and moves it to the remainder or to a previously owned tract of land is the historical cost or the current fair market value of the replacement site used as the "acquisition cost" for the RHP computation? The acquisition cost will be based on the current fair market value of the replacement site for residential use as determined by the agency. If an agency uses the buildable lot procedure in accordance with §24.403(a)(3), the value of the buildable remainder will have been added to the acquisition cost of the displacement dwelling for purposes of computing the replacement housing payment. 49 CFR 24.401(d)(3). If the interest rate charged for a new mortgage exceeds the prevailing interest rate because the displaced person is a poor credit risk or for other similar reasons, may the actual rate be utilized when determining the amount of the mortgage interest differential payment?
The interest rate for a new mortgage should generally not exceed the current range of prevailing mortgage interest rates of lending institutions in the area of the replacement dwelling. If the displaced person's unique circumstances require payment of a higher interest rate and the agency determines that the additional cost could prevent the displaced person from obtaining comparable housing, the required rate may be used. The file should contain justification for the rate used. 92. §24.401(d)(3). If the interest rate charged for a new mortgage exceeds the prevailing interest rate because the displaced person is a poor credit risk or for other similar reasons, may the actual rate be utilized when determining the amount of the mortgage interest differential payment? The interest rate for a new mortgage should generally not exceed the current range of prevailing mortgage interest rates of lending institutions in the area of the replacement dwelling. If the displaced person's unique circumstances require payment of a higher interest rate and the agency determines that the additional cost could prevent the displaced person from obtaining comparable housing, the higher rate may be used as the basis for determination of the mortgage interest differential. The file should contain justification for the rate used. The agency must exercise reasonable, consistent latitude in these decisions and the computation of the payments. 93. §24.401. Are reverse mortgages eligible for increased interest payments, and is the cost to create such a loan on a replacement property eligible for payment of incidental costs?
A reverse mortgage, such as a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) home equity conversion mortgage (HECM) is a first mortgage lien. A property owner who has an HECM is entitled to be placed in similar circumstances. Therefore, payments to enable an in-kind replacement, including costs to create another HECM, are eligible expenses. The agency may be required to supplement the equity position on the replacement home to the degree necessary for a comparable reverse mortgage to be written to provide the same monthly payment that the displacee was receiving at the displacement dwelling. Or the agency may be required to supplement the equity position to provide a similar "net available cash" position. Agency procedures should be developed to address how a reverse mortgage will be handled should one be encountered. To date very few reverse mortgages have been written.
31. How is the mortgage interest differential payment (MIDP) computed in instances where the displaced homeowner has a reverse mortgage or a combination of several types mortgages on their acquired residence? The current method for payment of increased costs for replacement home mortgages is to provide a lump-sum payment at the origination of the new mortgage that will enable displaced home owners to borrow a reduced amount so their monthly mortgage payment on the replacement home will remain about the same as that at the acquired residence. This method is described in 49 CFR 24.401(d) and in Appendix A, under the same section. However, new loans with differing characteristics, like reverse mortgages, are currently being made available by mortgage companies. FHWA is currently developing guidance for computation of payments for these new types of mortgages, and will issue it when completed.
94. §24.401(d) and in appendix A.How is the mortgage interest differential payment (MIDP) computed in instances where the displaced homeowner has a combination of several types mortgages on their acquired residence? The current method for payment of increased costs for replacement home mortgages is to provide a lump-sum payment at the origination of the new mortgage that will enable displaced home owners to borrow a reduced amount so their monthly mortgage payment on the replacement home will remain the same as that at the acquired residence. New loans with differing characteristics are currently available from mortgage companies. The relocation agent should work with the displacee to determine what is the best mortgage replacement available at the replacement dwelling. This may mean advising the displacee to consider a fixed rate mortgage at the replacement dwelling, especially in times of rising interest rates.
The FHWA is developing guidance on MIDP for variable rate mortgages. An important component of the calculation will depend on the mortgagee's selection of the replacement mortgage. 49 CFR 24.401(e). May the agency limit the reimbursement for all incidental expenses to those which would have been incurred incident to the purchase of a comparable replacement dwelling?
In accordance with 24.402(c)(2) and 24.404, tenants are eligible to receive reimbursement for incidental expenses related to the purchase of a replacement dwelling to the extent that the total payment does not exceed the amount of the computed rental assistance or housing of last resort payment.
Mortgage guarantee insurance premiums, origination and assumption fees, purchaser's points, and any other like expenses that are based on the amount of the mortgageobtained can be limited. These are the same payments that would be limited for computation of increased mortgage interest costs. Computations would be based on the lesser of the remaining mortgage balance on the acquired dwelling or the mortgage obtained on the replacement dwelling. 96. §24.401(e). Which of the incidental expenses for purchase of a replacement dwelling can be limited to what would be required to obtain a new mortgage in the same amount as the remaining balance of the mortgage on the acquired dwelling? Incidental costs that can be limited are those additional costs incurred for a new mortgage that is greater than the remaining balance on the acquired dwelling. Examples include mortgage guarantee insurance premiums, loan origination or loan assumption fees, and purchaser's points. When there was no mortgage on the acquired dwelling, there is no requirement to reimburse mortgage costs on the replacement dwelling. 49 CFR 24.401(e). Can a lump-sum payment for mortgage guarantee insurance be included as an incidental expense?
Yes. Required lump-sum payments for mortgage guarantee insurance may be included as part of the mortgage interest differential (MID) payment. If they are paid as an incidental expense to an owner-occupant, any payment made should be based upon the computed replacement mortgage for MID purposes or the new mortgage amount, whichever is less. Payments to tenants may be made if the computed rental assistance payment is sufficient to cover this expense. 97. §24.401(e). Can a lump-sum payment for mortgage guarantee insurance be included as an incidental expense? Yes. Required lump-sum payments for mortgage guarantee insurance may be included as part of the mortgage interest differential payment (MIDP), if they are necessary for the displacee to obtain financing. For those paid to an owner-occupant, any payment made should be based upon the computed replacement mortgage for MIDP purposes or the new mortgage, whichever amount is less. Payments to tenants may be made if the computed rental assistance payment is sufficient to cover this expense. 32. If an owner occupant of at least 180 days elects to rent a replacement dwelling in accordance with section 24.401(f), do you consider the owner's income in the calculation of the replacement housing payment?
98. §24.401(f).If an owner occupant of at least 180 days elects to rent a replacement dwelling, do you consider the owner's income in the calculation of the replacement housing payment? No. The income of an owner who elects to rent a replacement dwelling is not considered in the calculation of a rent supplement for a 180-day owner. The income test is not appropriate to use for an owner who goes from an owner to a tenant status. The amount of the rental assistance payment is based on a determination of market rent for the acquired dwelling compared to a comparable rental dwelling available on the market. There is no income test for owners, and it was not the intent of this subpart to impose such as test. 49 CFR 24.402(c). What are the limitations on the payment of incidental expenses for a tenant who elects to purchase a replacement dwelling?
All incidental expenses actually incurred by a tenant for the purchase of a replacement dwelling (customarily paid by the buyer) in accordance with 24.401(e) can be included in the computation of down payment assistance to the extent theydo not exceed the amount available for down payment assistance.
99. §24.402(c). What are the limitations on the payment of incidental expenses for a tenant who elects to purchase a replacement dwelling? All incidental expenses actually incurred by a tenant for the purchase of a replacement dwelling and which are customarily paid by the buyer, can be included in the computation of down payment assistance to the extent the total payment does not exceed the amount of the computed rental assistance. 49 CFR 24.402(c)(2). Are loan origination fees incurred by a tenant in the purchase of a replacement dwelling eligible for reimbursement as incidental expenses?
100. §24.402(c)(2). Are loan origination fees incurred by a tenant in the purchase of a replacement dwelling eligible for reimbursement as incidental expenses? Yes. §24.401(e)(3) and §24.401(e)(9) provide for payment of loan origination fees and other similar costs the agency determines to be incidental to the purchase. The total payment for a tenant may not exceed the amount computed under §24.402(c).
49 CFR 24.2(d)(7) and Appendix A, Subpart A, reference Section 24.2(d)(7). Can the displaced occupant of a public housing unit be offered other public housing units as a comparable replacement housing?
Yes.A person displaced from a public housing project may be offered a comparable public housing unit as a replacement dwelling. The rental assistance payment would be based upon the rent of the available unit unless the person is no longer eligible for subsidized public housing. In that event, a comparable replacement dwelling from the private market would have to be made available.
101. §24.2(a)(6)and appendix A, §24.2(a)(6)(ix). Can a person receiving government housing assistance before displacement, be offered a replacement dwelling that reflects similar government housing assistance and conditions?
Yes. In the case of a person receiving government housing assistance a comparable replacement dwelling may include a dwelling that reflects similar government housing assistance. A public housing unit may qualify as a comparable replacement dwelling only for a person displaced from a public housing unit. A privately owned dwelling unit with a housing subsidy tied to the unit may qualify as a comparable replacement dwelling only for a person displaced from a similarly subsidized unit or public housing. In such cases any requirements of the government housing assistance program, related to the size of the replacement dwelling would apply. Further, nothing prevents any fully informed displaced person not previously receiving government housing assistance from accepting such assistance. Additional details are provided in appendix A, §24.2(a)(6)(ix). If a person is no longer eligible for government housing assistance, a comparable replacement dwelling from the private market should be made available. HOUSING OF LAST RESORT
49 CFR 24.404(c)(iv). May a direct loan as provided for in this section be used as a substitute for a replacement housing payment?
No. A direct loan would be provided in addition to any replacement housing payment computed for the displaced person. A direct loan may be provided under housing of last resort if financing is not otherwise available to the displaced person. It cannot be used as a substitute for a replacement housing payment. Moved to Question #110
49 CFR 24.404(c)(1). Are there other ways to assist displaced persons to occupy purchased replacement housing other than the ones listed in 24.404(c)?
Yes. The agency has many options for assisting people to become owners of replace-ment dwellings. A first mortgage or a lien can be placed on a property that would become due and payable if the displaced person ceased to occupy the property or conveyed or sold the property to someone else. A life estate, based on the displaced person's life, could be offered in a property owned or purchased by an agency. The displaced person would have the right to occupy the property until death when the full ownership of the property would revert to the agency for other uses or sale. The agency could also "buy down" the interest or the mortgage of a property with a financing agency to make the payments affordable for the displaced person. Or the agency could initiate mortgage financing for a displaced person and then sell the mortgage, possibly at a reduced rate, to a person or institution who would become the new mortgagee. Several agencies have also assisted displaced persons in establishing credit at credit unions that then financed the mortgages for them.
Moved to Question #111
33.Is a displaced person whose rental assistance payment when computed in accordance with section 24.402(c) is determined to be zero, eligible for a downpayment assistance payment for the purchase of a replacement home? Yes. Any eligible displaced person whose rental assistance payment is determine to be zero may qualify for downpayment assistance of up to $5,250 at the agency's discretion. One of the objectives of the Uniform Act is to provide assistance to displaced tenants in order to become homeowners. The existing regulations provide for any rental assistance payment that is calculated to be less than $5,250, and used for downpayment assistance be increased to any amount not to exceed $5,250 as a downpayment, at the agency's discretion. If the agency elects to provide the maximum payment of $5,250 as a downpayment, the agency must apply this policy in a uniform and consistent manner, so that eligible displaced persons in like circumstances are treated equally. The full amount of the downpayment assistance must be applied towards the purchase price of the replacement dwelling and related incidental expenses. The agency must also provide relocation advisory services in compliance with §24.205(c)(iv) to minimize hardships to such persons in adjusting to relocation.
102. §24.402(c).Is a displaced person whose rental assistance payment is determined to be zero, eligible for a downpayment assistance payment for the purchase of a replacement home? Yes. Any eligible displaced person whose rental assistance payment is determine to be zero may qualify for downpayment assistance of up to $5,250 at the agency's discretion. One of the objectives of the Uniform Act is to provide assistance to displaced tenants in order to become homeowners. The regulation provides that any rental assistance payment that is calculated to be less than $5,250, and is to be used for downpayment assistance, may be increased to any amount not to exceed $5,250 as a downpayment, at the agency's discretion. If the agency elects to provide the maximum payment of $5,250 as a downpayment, the agency must apply this policy in a uniform and consistent manner, so that eligible displaced persons in like circumstances are treated equally. The full amount of the downpayment assistance must be applied towards the purchase price of the replacement dwelling and related incidental expenses. The agency must also provide relocation advisory services in compliance with §24.205(c)(iv) to minimize hardships to such persons in adjusting to relocation. 103. §24.402(b)(2)(ii). What is excluded from household income when calculating the replacement housing payment for low-income tenants?
34. In addition to advanced relocation payments in 24.403(a)(6), can the Agency deduct rent due from the displacee if it does not create a situation that would prevent the displacee from relocating?
105. §24.403(a)(6).In addition to advanced relocation payments, can the agency deduct rent due from the displacee if it does not create a situation that would prevent the displacee from relocating? No. Relocation payments are separate from other obligations, and, even if the displacee had been a tenant of the agency, the use of relocation funds to satisfy those obligations is not permitted. 49 CFR 24.403(a)(2). Can an alternative procedure which would enable the displaced person to replace a major exterior attribute be utilized for determining the replacement housing payment in cases where the comparable replacement dwelling site lacks a major exterior attribute of the displacement dwelling?
No. Section 24.403(a)(2) requires that the value ofthe attribute be subtracted from the acquisition price of the displacement dwelling for purposes of computing the payment if the comparable replacement dwelling site lacks a major exterior attribute. The agency should always attempt to locate a comparable dwelling with the attribute before selecting a dwelling without the attribute. 106.§24.403(a)(2). Can an alternative procedure which would enable the displaced person to replace a major exterior attribute be utilized for determining the replacement housing payment in cases where the comparable replacement dwelling site lacks a major exterior attribute of the displacement dwelling? No. §24.403(a)(2) requires that the value of major attributes be subtracted from the acquisition price of the displacement dwelling for purposes of computing the replacement housing payment if the comparable replacement dwelling site lacks such major exterior attribute. The agency should always attempt to locate a comparable dwelling with the attribute before selecting a dwelling without the attribute. 49 CFR 24.207(e). What was the intent of the last sentence of this paragraph regarding multiple occupants of one displacement dwelling? ("However, if two or more occupants maintained separate households within the same dwelling, such occupants have separate entitlements to relocation payments.")
Two or more occupants of a dwelling may maintain separate households within that dwelling. If they do, they have separate entitlement to relocation payments. The displacing agency is responsible for determining the number of households in a dwelling based on the use of the dwelling, the relationship of the occupants, and any other information that may be obtained. The payment computation for each household should be based on the part of the dwelling that the household occupies and the space that is shared with others. An attempt should be made to locate similar comparable DSS living facilities. The record should be sufficiently documented to support the decision reached. 107. §24.403(a)(5). What is the intent of the paragraph regarding multiple occupants of one displacement dwelling? In general, all of the occupants of a single dwelling unit should be considered one family for purposes of payment calculations. However, two or more occupants of a dwelling may maintain separate households within that dwelling. If they do, they have separate entitlement to relocation payments. The agency is responsible for determining the number of households in a dwelling based on the use of the dwelling, the relationship of the occupants, and any other information that may be obtained. The payment computation for each household should be based on the part of the dwelling that the household occupies and the space that is shared with others. An attempt should be made to locate similar comparable DSS living facilities. The record should be sufficiently documented to support the decision reached. 49 CFR 24.403(c). Will the purchase and occupancy of a motor home or a boat meet the requirement for "Purchase (of) a replacement dwelling?"
A motor home or a boat designed to provide living accommodations may also meet the requirement of renting a replacement dwelling if it is occupied as the "primary" place of residence and qualifies under (B) and (C) above. 108. §24.403(c). Will the purchase and occupancy of a motor home or a boat meet the requirement for purchase of a replacement dwelling? A motor home or a boat capable of providing living accommodations may be considered a replacement dwelling if (a) the motor home or boat is purchased and occupied as the primary place of residence; (b) the motor home or boat is located on a purchased or leased site and connected to all necessary utilities for functioning as a housing unit on the date of the agency's inspection, and (c) the dwelling, as sited, meets all local, State, and Federal requirements for a DSS dwelling. It should be noted that the regulations of some local jurisdictions would not permit the consideration of these vehicles as DSS dwellings.
A motor home or a boat designed to provide living accommodations may also meet the requirement of a rental replacement dwelling if it is occupied as the primary place of residence and qualifies under (b) and (c) above. 49 CFR Appendix A, Subpart E, reference Section 24.404(b). How do you relocate a partial owner-occupant who cannot afford to finance a replacement dwelling? Can a direct loan under the provision of Section 24.404(c) be provided?
109. Appendix A, §24.404(b). How do you relocate a partial owner-occupant who cannot afford to finance a replacement dwelling? Can a direct loan under the provision of §24.404(c) be provided? If an agency determines that the relocation of a partial owner-occupant should be as an owner, the agency may provide a direct loan, lien or other financial assistance under §24.404(c) if other financing is not available to the person, in addition to the computed replacement housing payment. A partial owner-occupant who cannot afford to purchase comparable replacement housing may be relocated as a tenant and provided a rental assistance payment in accordance with §24.402. 49 CFR 24.404(c)(iv). May a direct loan as provided for in this section be used as a substitute for a replacement housing payment?
No. A direct loan would be provided in addition to any replacement housing payment computed for the displaced person. A direct loan may be provided under housing of last resort if financing is not otherwise available to the displaced person. It cannot be used as a substitute for a replacement housing payment. 110. §24.404(c)(iv). Can a direct loan as provided for in this section be used as a substitute for a replacement housing payment? No. A direct loan would be provided in addition to any replacement housing payment computed for the displaced person. A direct loan may be provided under housing of last resort if financing is not otherwise available to the displaced person. It cannot be used as a substitute for a replacement housing payment.
111. §24.404(c). Are there other ways to assist displaced persons to purchase and occupy replacement housing other than the ones listed in §24.404(c)? Yes. The agency has many options for assisting people to become owners of replacement dwellings. A first mortgage or a lien can be placed on a property that would become due and payable if the displaced person ceased to occupy the property or conveyed or sold the property to someone else. A life estate, based on the displaced person's life, could be offered in a property owned or purchased by an agency. The displaced person would have the right to occupy the property until death when the full ownership of the property would revert to the agency for other uses or sale. The agency could also "buy down" the interest or the mortgage of a property with a financing agency to make the payments affordable for the displaced person. Or the agency could initiate mortgage financing for a displaced person and then sell the mortgage to a person or institution who would become the new mortgagee. Several agencies have also assisted displaced persons in establishing credit at credit unions that then financed the mortgages for them.