Research Report Estimated Number of Loans Saved During the COVID-19 Pandemic Attributable to Improved Loss Mitigation
Laurie Goodman, Jun Zhu
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This report estimates the number of loans saved for different demographic groups attributable to pandemic-era mortgage forbearance policies that prevented foreclosures. Using data from Fannie Mae, American Community Survey, and a Home Mortgage Disclosure Act–ICE Mortgage Technology matched database, we estimate these policies averted 535,737 foreclosures. Our findings indicate a disproportionate benefit to Black and Latino borrowers relative to their representation in outstanding loans. Furthermore, we observe that lower-income borrowers were more likely to benefit from these policies. This research contributes to the literature on crisis response in housing markets and offers valuable insights into the efficacy of forbearance as a tool for maintaining homeownership during economic downturns.

Research and Evidence Housing and Communities Technology and Data
Expertise Housing Finance Policy Center Housing
Tags Federal housing programs and policies COVID-19 Housing stability Racial and ethnic disparities Data analysis Quantitative data analysis
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