Former FHA Commissioner Frank Cassidy Rejoins Walker & Dunlop

In his new role, Cassidy will advise clients on FHA and Government-Sponsored Enterprise (GSE) financing options. He will also work with property owners, developers, lenders, and investors to help them manage changes in government policies and the capital markets.

Cassidy is returning to Walker & Dunlop at a time when the commercial real estate industry is facing changing federal housing policies, ongoing housing affordability challenges, and growing demand for funding to increase the nation's housing supply.

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Cassidy joined the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in April 2025. As FHA Commissioner and Assistant Secretary for Housing, he led the agency's housing programs and policies that support homebuyers, renters, homeowners, and communities across the country.

He also managed the FHA's nearly $2 trillion mortgage insurance portfolio, covering single-family homes, multifamily housing, and healthcare facilities. The program supports more than eight million homeowners, about 1.5 million renters, and nearly 4,000 healthcare facilities across the United States and its territories.

During his time at HUD, Cassidy lowered FHA multifamily mortgage insurance premiums to the minimum level allowed by law. He also removed the Green Mortgage Insurance Premium program and its reporting requirements, simplified multifamily mortgage insurance programs, and introduced the Section 232 Express Lane initiative to speed up financing approvals for eligible low-risk residential healthcare facilities.

He also managed HUD's Multifamily Assisted Housing Portfolio, which provides housing for more than 1.2 million low-income residents. In addition, he oversaw the agency's housing counseling program and the federal standards for the design and construction of manufactured homes.

"Serving at HUD gave me the opportunity to help shape housing policy during an important period for our country’s history," Cassidy said. "I'm excited to return to Walker & Dunlop and work alongside our talented team to deliver the financing solutions our clients need to increase housing supply, improve affordability, and connect public policy with private capital."

"Frank returns to Walker & Dunlop at a defining moment in the housing industry," said Sheri Thompson, EVP, head of Affordable Housing at Walker & Dunlop. "Our country continues to face a significant housing shortage, and collaboration between the public and private sectors will be essential to delivering more affordable and workforce housing. Frank's leadership at HUD and deep understanding of FHA programs will be critical in helping clients navigate the evolving finance landscape.”

About Walker & Dunlop

Walker & Dunlop is one of the largest commercial real estate finance and advisory firms in the United States, with operations around the world. The company helps clients finance, develop and invest in properties where people live, work, shop and spend time. With a strong team, a broad range of services, and advanced technology, Walker & Dunlop provides clients with expert advice and tailored real estate solutions.

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