Loan Modifications: Things You Must Know

By Ginny Krause

Here's a list of loan modification do's and don'ts to help you avoid common pitfalls.

Do know your rights.

80% of mortgage contracts violate one or more lending laws-and most of them go un discovered. But these violations can be your biggest weapon in the loan modification process. Your loan modification attorney can help you understand your rights and use them to get the results you want.

Waiting too long can hurt you.

The foreclosure process is designed so that you have time to get back on your feet and save your home. But that doesn't mean it's safe to delay. The longer you wait, the harder it gets to get you out of that fix. As soon as you decide you need mortgage help, call for a loan modification help and get help.

Be sure to work with your lawyer.

Your Home Loan Modification doesn't rest in the hands of your lender, your broker, or your loan modification attorney. These people can help, but you have to do your part and cooperate with your lawyer. Be sure to give them a clear idea of your situation.

File for bankruptcy only as a last resort.

Contrary to popular belief filing for bankrupcy doesn't always stop forelcsure. But data from the American Bar Association shows that it doesn't work that way. In fact, 96% of the people who file bankruptcy end up losing their homes anyway-so they're left with a foreclosure AND a bankruptcy on their records. In some cases, bankruptcy is still a viable option, but don't make any decisions without getting professional advice.

Make sure you have a backup plan.

Not all people will qualify for a mortgage loan modification. Maybe you've fallen too far behind, your lender may be simply hard to work with, or maybe you don't need it after all. In any case, it's always good to have a Plan B. Your mortgage modification attorney can help you find the best solution.

Talk to your lawyer about a short sales if you can't get your mortgage modified. This involves selling your home for less than its fair market value and giving the proceeds to your lender. Although you still lose your home, it's not as damaging to your credit as foreclosure, so it's easier to get back on your feet. - 32499

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