Aug 15, 2025 2025-13
Desktop Underwriter (DU) is Now Allowed with FirstDown Plus
Dear Participating Lenders:
Housing New Mexico | MFA received confirmation that Desktop Underwriter (DU) is accurately decisioning loans with FirstDown Plus. This applies to both FHA and Fannie Mae loan products. FirstDown Plus, which can only be combined with Housing New Mexico’s FirstHome, is an optional third mortgage providing $10,000 in down payment assistance.
Effective immediately, Housing New Mexico will accept Fannie Mae and FHA loan products ran through Desktop Underwriter (DU) on loans including FirstDown Plus. This change applies to any loan currently in process.
As a reminder, DU is the only Automated Underwriting System (AUS) accepted on Fannie Mae loan products. It is solely the lender’s responsibility to deliver a saleable loan meeting current agency and GSE guidelines. Freddie Mac loan products may still be used in conjunction with FirstDown Plus. All Freddie Mac loans must be run through Loan Product Advisor (LPA).
Should you have questions, please contact a member of the Housing New Mexico | MFA Homeownership Department at 505-843-6880 or by e-mail: singlefamily@housingnm.org.
Thank you for participating in Housing New Mexico | MFA programs.
