Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links at no cost to you. I am a REALTOR® licensed in the state of Utah, License No. 11785411-SA00 and affiliated with Presidio Real Estate (South Jordan).
Senate Unanimously Passes H.R. 1815 — A Major Win for Veterans & the Real Estate Industry
Senate Unanimously Passes H.R. 1815; A Major Win for Veterans & the Real Estate Industry
The U.S. Senate has just passed H.R. 1815, known as the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act, by unanimous voice vote.The bill, which already cleared the House in May, now heads to the President’s desk for signature and is expected to become law imminently.
As a certified Military Relocation Professional, this is welcome news. With the changes in NAR policy requiring all home buyers to sign a Buyer’s Broker Agreement, VA borrowers were at a significant disadvantage when purchasing a home because the current VA policies prohibited compensation to buyer’s agents.
What H.R. 1815 Does
1. Reauthorizes a Partial Claim Program
Establishes a new program allowing the VA to assume part of a veteran’s mortgage debt (up to 25% of principal, or up to 30% for those who missed payments during the COVID-era window) in order to prevent foreclosure.
The VA will acquire a non-interest-bearing lien on the property, secondary to the existing VA loan.
2. Orders Mandatory Loss-Mitigation Protocols
The VA must follow a defined sequence of assistance options (loan counseling, forbearance, modifications) before foreclosure.
3. Promotes Broker Representation
Requires a report from the VA ensuring veterans are not disadvantaged when seeking representation from real estate professionals.
4. Enhances Funding to Prevent Homelessness
Increases funding for VA’s Grant and Per Diem homeless services through fiscal year 2030.
5. Ensures Equal Compensation for Agents
Codifies veteran ability to compensate their real estate agents, eliminating barriers that previously stemmed from seller-paid commissions.
Why This Matters
**Veterans **at risk of losing their homes now have proven support tools to stay in their residence.
The legislation backs access to professional representation, leveling the playing field for veteran buyers.
With strong bipartisan support, unanimous votes in both chambers, it demonstrates practical, veteran-focused legislative efficacy.
Analysts project that more than 20,000 veterans with seriously delinquent loans could benefit.
The Mortgage Bankers Association and National Association of Realtors praised the bill, citing its significance in preventing foreclosures among veteran homeowners.
What Happens Next?
With unanimous congressional passage, H.R. 1815 is now awaiting the President’s signature to become law.
Implementation includes new VA guidelines, potentially launching the partial-claim program late 2025 or early 2026.
VA and mortgage servicers will coordinate to roll out next steps and inform eligible veterans of the new loss-mitigation options.
Voices on the Land
Bob Broeksmit, President & CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association:
“This important legislation… ensures that distressed veteran homeowners have access to a proven and sustainable loss mitigation solution.”
Shannon McGahn, EVP of NAR:
“We are grateful… for passing this measure and providing veterans and active‑duty service members the same advantages as other buyers in a competitive real estate market.”
This marks a significant policy victory for veterans, realtors, mortgage professionals, and advocates working to keep veterans in their homes, and ensure fair access to real estate services.
Stay tuned for updates on implementation and official activation of the VA Partial Claim Program once the President signs H.R. 1815 into law.
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