Credit union borrowers may get some relief in the form of lower interest rates — that is, if they’re lucky. The National Credit Union Administration, or NCUA, in June authorized federal credit unions to securitize and sell loans they have originated. According to the agency’s legal opinion letter, credit unions had this power all along under NCUA rules and the Federal Credit Union Act. If they’re federally-insured, state-chartered credit unions may have this authority, too, depending on state laws.
Bottom line: Your credit union may soon have more money to loan, and that could work to your advantage. If you’re in the market for a home loan now, don’t fear, mortgage rates remain incredibly cheap. Additional details and guidelines will be available in three to four months. In the meantime, your credit union could begin issuing and selling securities now if it meets the NCUA’s expectations.
