Many communities struggle with significant barriers to homeownership and affordable housing. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Single Family Housing in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Sarah Edelman MPP ’13 is confronting these issues head-on, advancing policies that aim to dismantle these obstacles. Her leadership focuses on creating inclusive, equitable housing opportunities for all people, particularly those in marginalized and underserved communities.
Emphasizing HUD’s mission to serve first-time homebuyers and diverse communities, Edelman noted that, with a $1.6 trillion portfolio, 83% of the mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration are made to first-time buyers. “We serve, by share, three times as many Black borrowers, and twice as many Hispanic borrowers, than the rest of the market,” said Edelman. These are not just statistics but a driving force behind HUD’s policy initiatives.
To further address credit access disparities, HUD implemented a policy change allowing borrowers to demonstrate 12 months of positive rental payments to improve their chances of FHA mortgage approval. This change benefits approximately 5,000 borrowers annually who might not otherwise qualify, predominantly aiding younger Black women with thinner credit histories. This initiative highlights HUD’s commitment to expanding access to homeownership and highlights the measurable impact of thoughtful policy analysis. HUD’s research team analyzed the effects of adding positive rental history to the FHA’s scoring system, finding that it allowed 1,727 more borrowers to qualify for loans by recognizing on-time rent payments, which helped more first-time homebuyers access credit.
Edelman’s journey in housing policy has been shaped by her previous experiences, including her role as senior director of environmental and social impact at Fannie Mae. Consistently integrating sustainability and social equity into housing policies, Edelman has advocated for solutions that address both current challenges and future needs. “As families change, so do their housing needs,” she observed, pointing to HUD’s efforts to finance accessory dwelling units and support multi-generational households.
A critical aspect of Edelman’s work is addressing the housing supply crisis and enhancing programs to help homebuyers purchase and renovate properties. She acknowledges the housing shortage and emphasizes the importance of renovation programs that facilitate the purchase of fixer-uppers.
Engaging stakeholders is central to Edelman’s commitment to equity and inclusion. She ensures that nearly every policy HUD implements is developed through a participatory process known as the “drafting table,” emphasizing the importance of collaboration and stakeholder input. This approach ensures that HUD’s policies are grounded in the realities faced by diverse communities.
Edelman’s work at HUD is deeply personal, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves. She credits her education at the School of Public Policy with providing the foundation for her successful mid-career transition into domestic public service from previously working in the international space. “I leveraged the heck out of the location of the University of Maryland,” she recalls, emphasizing the value of internships and professional networks in her career development.
Playing a key role in HUD’s efforts to create equitable and sustainable housing opportunities, Edelman works on policies that address the needs of all Americans. Her leadership demonstrates the importance of dedicated public service in tackling the challenges of affordable housing and promoting social justice. As she continues to lead initiatives that support stability and security in the housing market, Edelman remains committed to making housing more accessible and equitable for all people.
