10/01/2025
🚨 Government Shutdown & Home Loans – What You Need to Know 🚨
No, it’s not the end of the world 😂 — but if you’re buying or selling a home right now, a shutdown can absolutely delay or even STOP a closing. Here are the biggest things to watch:
✅ Major Impact: Flood Insurance
The National Flood Insurance Program expires Oct 1st.
If your transaction requires flood insurance and the program lapses:
• New policies CANNOT be issued
• Renewals/modifications STOP
• Closings requiring flood insurance CANNOT happen
• Existing active policies stay in effect — check expirations
👉 Private flood insurance is still an option!
⚠️ Moderate Impact: Expect Delays
Some services lenders rely on are tied to government systems:
• Social Security & VA income/ID verification
• IRS tax transcripts & income validation
• FHA, VA & USDA loan processing
• Federal employee job/income verification
These services may still run, but with fewer employees, delays are likely.
❓Other Unknowns
• Bankruptcy & foreclosure record checks
• Tax lien verification
• USDA Direct Loans (highest chance of delay)
⏳ What This Means for Buyers & Agents:
• Be ready for contract extensions
• Watch your rate lock expiration — extensions cost money
• Check flood insurance dates
• Verify if anyone in the deal is a federal employee
• Don’t risk losing earnest money by missing deadlines
🗣️ Bottom line: In lending, time is NOT our friend. Delays can cause rate changes, contract expirations, lock fees, updated disclosures, and more.
If you’re in a transaction (or about to be), reach out and I’ll help you navigate anything that comes up. I’m on top of this so you don’t get blindsided!
📲 Always here to help with questions or scenarios!