Which entity is recognized as the largest buyer of residential mortgages in the U.S.?

The Federal National Mortgage Association, also known as FNMA or Fannie Mae, is recognized as the largest buyer of residential mortgages in the U.S. Fannie Mae plays a crucial role in the mortgage market by purchasing loans from lenders, which helps provide liquidity and stability to the housing market. When lenders sell their mortgages to Fannie Mae, they can use the capital gained to originate more loans, thereby encouraging lending and boosting homeownership.

Fannie Mae primarily focuses on conventional loans, and by assembling these mortgages into mortgage-backed securities, it enables investors to participate in the mortgage market. This process not only promotes home purchases but also supports the overall health of the financial system.

Understanding Fannie Mae's role in terms of scale and impact is vital for anyone studying real estate finance, as it illustrates the interconnectedness of mortgage financing, the housing market, and overall economic stability.