FHA recently raised the amount of commercial space it will finance in mixed-use condo buildings from 25% to 35%, with possible waivers up to 50% allowed. The new rules allow the marketplace more room to deliver the type of urban development that is in demand, and sends a signal to private banks to finance more mixed residential-commercial projects.
To learn more: http://articles.latimes.com/2012/sep/23/business/la-fi-harney-20120923