09/04/2026
Fannie Mae just rewrote the rules on rental income. 🏘️
If you own a rental, are thinking about renting out your current home to buy the next one, host on Airbnb or VRBO, or have an investment property on your radar, this one's for you.
The short version: a signed lease is no longer the whole story. Market rent, reserves, documentation and timing all factor in now. And short-term rentals and departing residences each have their own set of requirements.
Here's the good news. This isn't a crackdown. Fannie Mae rebuilt this policy because the old version was hard to apply consistently. The goal was clarity, not restriction.
Lenders can start using the new rules now, and every application dated on or after November 1, 2026 has to follow them. So if rental income is part of your plan, the time to map it out is before you sign a lease, list the house, or make an offer.
Swipe through for what changed, then let's talk through your situation. 👇
For informational purposes only. Loan guidelines are subject to change and may vary by borrower and loan program. All loans are subject to qualification and underwriting approval.
Licensed as a Mortgage Lender by the Commissioner of Financial Regulation No. 3029. Equal Housing Opportunity. All loans subject to underwriting approval. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC cannot guarantee that an applicant will be approved or that a closing can occur within a specific timeframe. Results will vary based on all involved parties' level of participation at any stage of the loan process. All borrowers must meet minimum credit score, loan-to-value, debt-to-income, and other requirements qualify for any mortgage program. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC. NMLS3029 NMLS1490087 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).
