WASHINGTON – The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and Freddie Mac signed an agreement that gives ICBA member banks enhanced access to the secondary mortgage market through Freddie Mac products and services. The alliance "is designed to help ICBA members boost mortgage originations and remain competitive in a dynamic marketplace," a Freddie Mac release read. Among the features of the alliance are: * increased access to capital markets and portfolio management experts; * affordable mortgage lending products to help bankers serve more low- and moderate-income borrowers and meet Community Reinvestment Act requirements; * access to Freddie Mac's Loan Prospector automated underwriting service, and the creation of customized Web sites for online mortgage lending; * customized instructor-led training sessions for Freddie Mac products and services; * guaranteed rural housing loan products that helps bankers reach more borrowers in rural communities. These products include various funding options, no mortgage insurance and no down payment features.