I am a reporter for a nationally syndicated real estate section published weekly in newspapers across the country. I’m looking to interview real estate experts for the following article, with a deadline of Jan. 9, 2015:

STORY: - NEW 3% DOWN PROGRAMS—DO YOU QUALIFY? In December, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac launched programs to allow more borrowers to make down payments as low as 3 percent of a property's value, but with tighter lending standards aimed at keeping default rates low (see details at tinyurl.com/lcujfw5 and tinyurl.com/n367ut4) . But the 3 percent down payment policy primarily targets first-time borrowers, who often have lower or moderate incomes, and also only applies to loans for owner-occupied homes. Borrowers making smaller down payments will also have to demonstrate creditworthiness in other ways, such as by having higher incomes or credit scores. The plan also applies to loans to refinance mortgages. This story would outline the details of the new policy/program, and explore who can benefit and who cannot. I’m looking to interview lenders, real estate agents, brokers, and other housing experts for this article. Please e-mail me back your interest, availability and phone number. My deadline is noon central time, Friday, Jan. 9, 2015.

QUESTIONS:
1. Why did Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac institute these new 3% down programs?
2. What are the pros and cons of the new Freddie Mac 3% down program? How do you qualify? Who are the best candidates for this program and why?
3. What are the pros and cons of the new Fannie Mae 3% down program? How do you qualify? Who are the best candidates for this program and why?
4. What is your opinion about each of these programs—are they worth it? Will they benefit enough borrowers and make enough of an impact, or is this too little, too late?
5. Any other thoughts, tips, suggestions on this topic that I failed to ask about?
6. What is your full name, title, company, and location where you are based?