The Loan Modification Guide

Mortgage problems? This book will help. It is the consumer's guide to new federal rules for modifying home loans, the most current and important information available for homeowners in distress.If you don't know what to do. If you've applied for a modification, but it's taking too long. If your lender made an offer, but it's not enough. Even if you've been turned down. Rely on this valuable resource during a long, unfamiliar, and discouraging process. It can shift the balance of power and help you get control.Cut through technical jargon and specialized knowledge. Homeowners and their trusted advisors now have a simple and complete reference when working with lenders. Step by step, it explains what you need to know and do to get a loan modification.The federal Making Home Affordable Modification Program, the "Obama Plan," sets rules for more than 85% of all home loans. What are the rules? Can I lower my payments? Is my lender required to modify my loan? Do I qualify? Does my lender play by the rules? Here are the answers to your questions, plus 12 questions to ask your lender.Now you can understand the guidelines that the big lenders like Bank of America (Countrywide), Chase (WAMU), and Wells Fargo (Wachovia) use to modify home loans. They claim they want to help. It doesn't matter - they are overwhelmed. Borrowers must take responsibility for themselves. This book makes that possible.The Loan Modification Guide includes helpful suggestions and practical tools. Calculate your new payment. Complete the financial statement with a key to the nine categories used to qualify modifications. Look up unfamiliar, but crucial terms in the Glossary.Apply for a modification with the loan description and proposal formats, or use them to organize yourself before talking with your lender. Determine for yourself whether you are eligible for a modification. Understand the essential events and elements of the "hardship affidavit."