My friend, Wendy McDermott, is keeping everyone updated on the effect of the government shutdown on new loans and what it means for our real estate business.

THE SHUT DOWN IS A MOVING AND DEVELOPING SITUATION. I AM TRYING TO KEEP EVERYONE UPDATED AS BEST AS I CAN. FEEL FREE TO SHARE.
With respect to the government shut down, we do not anticipate significant impact to our day-to-day workflow:

• FHA will be able to endorse single family loans during the shutdown, however, only a limited number of FHA staff will be available to underwrite and approve new loans so the process may take longer. SINCE MOST LENDERS have delegated authority, minimum impact – IT IS NOT COMMON FOR LOANS TO BE UNDERWRITTEN BY FHA. THIS WOULD ONLY EFFECT VERY SMALL MORTGAGE BANKERS.
• Since many of the functions we use are electronic (ordering of case numbers, payment of MIP and/or Funding Fees, self-insuring of loans etc.), there is no change in this regard.
• Anything that does require human intervention (loans sent to USDA for prior approval, assistance with VA on Certificate of Eligibility problems, loans that must be manually insured, etc.) will be delayed. However, we believe this is a very small portion of our business.
• • We have been advised that there will be delay in IRS transcripts. Although they are ordered electronically, we have received notices from our vendors that those will have a delay. 
• We have not yet received guidance on how to handle BORROWERS who are also government employees. I expect guidance on this topic later on today.

Thanks, Wendy for this update!