WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwired - Jan 27, 2015) - The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Chris Polychron:

"Realtors® support responsible lending to qualified buyers, which is essential for building strong communities. The new low down payment mortgage program introduced last month by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mel Watt will safely serve creditworthy borrowers who lack the resources for substantial downpayments plus closing costs while mitigating risk with strong underwriting.

"NAR research shows that saving for a down payment is the biggest hurdle to homeownership for many first-time buyers, who have been entering the market at lower than normal rates. Improved access to safe, affordable mortgage credit through FHFA's 3 percent down payment program will help new borrowers achieve the dream of homeownership."

The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Information about NAR is available at www.realtor.org. This and other news releases are posted in the "News, Blogs and Videos" tab on the website.

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