On Feb.  11 the Obama Administration offered a plan to reform the mortgage finance industry. It would involve shrinking Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac at 10 percent per year, requiring a down payment of at least 10 percent for Fannie and Freddie loans, and making other changes to help increase private sector borrowing. According to MHI Week In Review, other flaws in the finance housing market to be addressed include increased consumer protection, more transparency and accountability on the part of mortgage securitizers and originators, and establishing national standards for mortgage servicing. In addition, the plan calls for greater support for affordable home ownership through FHA, USDA and the Veteran’s Administration, as well as affordable rental property. A Republican member of Congress says he is encouraged by this proposal that returns the housing market to private capital.