For Immediate Release

ALTA Warns Homeowners Face Greater Risks as White House Executive Order Expands Title Acceptance Pilot

Washington, D.C., Oct. 22, 2026 — The American Land Title Association (ALTA) issued the following statement from CEO Chris Morton in response to the executive order signed by President Trump on Oct. 22 outlining several policy changes aimed at improving housing affordability, including a provision that would authorize the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to expand its title acceptance pilot for eligible mortgage refinances into an ongoing program. 

“The administration’s focus on housing affordability and expanding opportunities for Americans to achieve the dream of homeownership is critical,” said ALTA CEO Chris Morton. “The title industry shares that commitment and continues to embrace innovation that lowers costs, improves efficiency and protects American homeowners. In fact, research shows that the inflation-adjusted cost of title insurance coverage declined 32% between 2016 and 2024.  

“Any effort to make housing more affordable, however, must also preserve the essential consumer safeguards that protect Americans’ most valuable assets. Fraud is unaffordable, and the threats facing homeowners are growing. Research shows that seller impersonation fraud attempts have more than doubled in two years, and fraud and forgery claims associated with mortgage refinances average nearly $207,000. Now more than ever, we need to ensure that efforts to lower housing costs do not shift significant financial risks onto American families or the broader housing finance system.  

“Title professionals and title insurance are essential safeguards for American homeowners and the integrity of our nation’s housing market. We welcome the opportunity to continue advocating for policies that protect consumers and preserve the American dream of homeownership.”

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About ALTA

The American Land Title Association, founded in 1907, represents an industry comprised of more than 17,000 title insurance companies operating across the nation, with over 90% being small businesses.

Contact: Alisa Mairone
Office: 202-261-0305
Email: [email protected]