Mortgage Rates and Refinance Demand: What to Expect in 2026
Mortgage rates have been on the rise, impacting both refinance demand and home purchases. This article examines the current trends, expert p...
Fannie Mae will accept crypto-backed mortgages via a new product by Better Home and Finance and Coinbase.
Borrowers can use their crypto assets (like Bitcoin or USD Coin) as collateral without selling them.
The product involves taking out two loans: one for the mortgage and a second, crypto-backed loan for the down payment.
Crypto assets are held in custody and cannot be traded during the loan term.
Coinbase One members approved for a loan by Better are eligible for a rebate worth 1% of the mortgage value, capped at $10,000.
Why this matters: This opens homeownership to younger generations who have significant crypto assets but struggle with traditional down payment savings. It also allows individuals to retain their crypto investments and benefit from potential appreciation.
The new mortgage product aims to serve individuals who have substantial crypto assets but prefer not to sell them due to tax implications and the potential loss of future gains.
How it Works:
Two Loans: Borrowers take out a regular mortgage with Better and a second loan backed by their cryptocurrency.
Collateral: The second loan is funded by pledging either Bitcoin or USD Coin.
Custody: The crypto assets are held in Better's Coinbase Prime account and cannot be traded during the loan term.
Repayment: Borrowers make a single monthly payment to Better, covering both loans.
Example: For a $500,000 home, a borrower can pledge $250,000 in Bitcoin to secure a $100,000 down payment loan. The Bitcoin remains in custody until the loan is repaid.
Benefits:
Avoidance of capital gains taxes on crypto sales.
Opportunity to retain and grow crypto assets.
No private mortgage insurance on the second loan.
Considerations:
Borrowers pay interest on two loans, potentially increasing overall costs. However, Better claims to offer competitive rates.
The value of the pledged crypto cannot be accessed during the loan term.
Impact:
This move by Fannie Mae, under the oversight of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, signals a growing acceptance of cryptocurrency in the real estate sector. It may pave the way for more innovative mortgage products in the future. Tony Giordano, a real estate agent specializing in cryptocurrency, predicts that the entire real estate industry will be on the blockchain within 10 years.
What cryptocurrencies can be used as collateral?
A:: Initially, Bitcoin and USD Coin are accepted. Other assets like Ethereum and Solana may be added in the future.
What happens if the value of the crypto falls?
A:: As long as the borrower continues to make monthly payments, fluctuations in the crypto's value do not affect the loan terms.
Is there a limit to the rebate for Coinbase One members?
A:: Yes, the rebate is capped at $10,000.
Fannie Mae's acceptance of crypto-backed mortgages marks a significant step towards integrating digital assets into the housing market.
This new product allows you to use your cryptocurrency as collateral for a mortgage without selling it.
Consider the pros and cons, including the cost of paying interest on two loans, before deciding if this option is right for you.
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