New Twist on Real Estate and Babies

On a new twist which could be considered discrimination, lenders are turning down women on maternity leave  or pregnant for home loans.

The Federal Fair Lending Industry says that the topic now needs to be addressed.

In one case against Cornerstone Mortgage, turned down a borrower on

maternity leave violating the Fair Housing Act.  They settled and agreed to pay the borrower $15,000 and open an escrow account of $750,000 to pay any other potential claims to other women.

Lenders and loan officers counter that they have not been given specific rules from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

If you or your spouse have experienced discrimination on a mortgage application because of maternity leave, you may have a remedy:  File a complaint with HUD at (800) 669-9777 or online in the fair lending area at http://www.hud.gov