119-hr-7753119th CongressWALLET

First Look for First-time Homebuyers Act of 2026

Sponsored By: Representative Barrett, Tom [R-MI-7]

Introduced

Summary

Prioritize first-time homebuyers by giving them a mandatory exclusive "first look" at certain foreclosed or government-owned homes for a short window before those properties go to other buyers. The bill would set rules for pricing, listing, and oversight to make those offers transparent and monitored.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

15-day first-look for first buyers

If enacted, this bill would give first-time homebuyers a 15-day exclusive first-look to buy certain foreclosed or agency-owned homes. It would apply to 1–4 unit residential properties owned or foreclosed by the FHA, FHFA, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or USDA. Homes in the Good Neighbor Next Door Program would be excluded. The 15-day window would start on the listing date. The property would be shown on a public website for first-time buyers with a visible countdown. During the window, the seller would set the price at fair market value. That value would be based on an independent appraisal or broker price opinion done within 60 days of listing. If no independent valuation is available in that 60-day window, the seller could use a publicly disclosed valuation model. Covered agencies could not bundle properties for sale during the 15 days. They could extend the period if it would increase the chance a first-time buyer purchases. Each covered agency would have to issue final rules within one year that include a way to verify first-time buyer status. The rules would take effect 30 days after they are issued.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Barrett, Tom [R-MI-7]

MI • R

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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