Fannie Mae guidelines for private road maintenance agreements outline the requirements and conditions that must be met for a private road to be acceptable for financing. These guidelines play a critical role in ensuring the safety, accessibility, and overall marketability of properties located on private roads. Compliance with these guidelines is crucial for borrowers, lenders, and sellers involved in transactions involving properties with private roads. Key components of Fannie Mae guidelines for private road maintenance agreements include: 1. Road Maintenance Agreement: A private road maintenance agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the responsibilities and obligations of property owners who share a private road. It defines the scope of maintenance, repair, snow removal, and liability for damages. 2. Inclusion in Deed: Fannie Mae requires that private road maintenance agreements be recorded in the land records or a governing body to be enforceable. This ensures the agreement is publicly accessible and provides notice to potential buyers and lenders. 3. Cost Sharing: The guidelines specify that the costs of maintaining and repairing private roads should be appropriately shared among the property owners. The allocation may be based on the percentage of use or some other equitable arrangement. 4. Annual Assessments: Private road maintenance agreements should include provisions for the collection and management of annual assessments from property owners. These assessments fund ongoing maintenance and repairs. 5. Liability and Insurance: Fannie Mae recommends that private road maintenance agreements address liability and insurance requirements. This includes provisions for indemnification, liability limits, and adequate insurance coverage to protect property owners and lenders. 6. Road Standards: Private roads must meet certain construction and maintenance standards outlined in the Fannie Mae guidelines. These standards aim to ensure road safety, durability, and accessibility for emergency services, including appropriate width, surface conditions, grading, drainage, signage, and lighting. 7. Documentation and Verification: Lenders and sellers must provide documentation evidencing the existence and enforceability of a private road maintenance agreement, including copies of recorded documents, proof of road maintenance obligations, and compliance with applicable local ordinances. It is worth noting that while Fannie Mae has general guidelines for private road maintenance agreements, individual lenders may have their variations or additional requirements. It is crucial for borrowers and sellers to consult with their lender and review Fannie Mae guidelines specific to their situation. Furthermore, it is important to maintain compliance with Fannie Mae guidelines for private road maintenance agreements to ensure financing eligibility and the smooth completion of property transactions. Failure to meet these guidelines may result in difficulties obtaining mortgage financing or affect the marketability of the property. Overall, Fannie Mae guidelines aim to ensure that private roads in financed properties are adequately maintained, safe, and meet industry standards, protecting the interests of both lenders and borrowers.