Tuesday, October 7, 2008

The HOPE for Homeowners Program Will Refinance Mortgages for Borrowers


The HOPE for Homeowners program will refinance mortgages for borrowers who are having difficulty making their payments, but can afford a new loan insured by HUD's Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The program begins October 1, 2008 and ends September 30, 2011. Call 1 (800) 225-5342 for more information.

HOPE for Homeowners Frequently Asked Questions for Consumers

General/Program Related Questions

What is the HOPE for Homeowners Program (H4H)?

This new program, created by Congress, is intended to help borrowers at risk of default and foreclosure refinance into more affordable loans.

How can the H4H program help me?

If you are having trouble making your mortgage payments, this program may allow you to refinance your loan into a new 30-year fixed rate loan with lower payments.

Do I have to pay anything to apply?

There will be closing costs associated with HOPE for Homeowners loans; however, they may not be required to be paid out of pocket by the borrower. Please consult your lender or a HUD-approved Housing Counselor for more details.

How long will the process take?

Processing time will vary, but usually takes approximately 60 days. Please consult your lender when you apply.

What information do I need to apply?

Your lender is in the best position to answer this question based on your specific situation, but at a minimum you will need evidence of your income and assets, as well as your current mortgage information.

How long is the H4H program available?

The program began on October 1, 2008 and will end on September 30, 2011.

What interest rate will I receive?

The interest rate for the new H4H loan will be provided by the lender and is based on current market rates.

I don't want another adjustable rate mortgage. Will this interest rate be fixed or adjustable?

All HOPE for Homeowners loans are 30-year fixed rate mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

I contacted my lender and they are not interested in participating in this program. Can I apply with HUD?

HUD does not accept loan applications or lend money directly; however, you may apply with any FHA-approved lender who is participating in the program. You may also consult a HUD-approved housing counselor.

Eligibility Questions

My lender has started foreclosure proceedings. Can I still apply for H4H?

Yes, however, time is of the essence.

Is there an income restriction?

No, but you will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient, steady income to make the new H4H mortgage payments.

I recently filed for bankruptcy. Am I still able to apply for H4H?

Yes, borrowers in bankruptcy may participate; however, you will want to consult with the person handling your bankruptcy.

My lender has already foreclosed on my home. Can I still apply for H4H?

It may be possible depending on which stage of the foreclosure process you are in. You should talk to your lender immediately for more detailed information.

I have a first and second mortgage on my home. Can I still apply for H4H?

Yes, however, all your existing lenders must agree to release the liens against your home.

I am current on my mortgage. Can I apply for H4H?

Yes.

Lender Related Questions

Can you recommend a lender?

HUD does not recommend lenders; however, a list of participating lenders is located on our website at www.hud.gov. In the section marked "At your service," please click on the link "Find a HUD approved Lender in your area."

I can't reach my lender and I would like to apply. What should I do?

You may contact any participating lender to apply. For a list of HUD-approved lenders, please go to our website at www.hud.gov. In the section marked "At your service," please click on the link "Find a HUD approved Lender in your area."

My lender is not registered and I would like to apply. What should I do?

You may contact any participating lender to apply. For a list of HUD approved lenders please go to our website at www.hud.gov. In the section marked "At your service," please click on the link "Find a HUD approved Lender in your area."

Counseling Questions

I am not clear on what to do. How do I decide if this is the right choice for me?

You can contact a HUD-approved Housing Counselor in your area. They can help you evaluate the different options that may be available to you, and help you determine your best course of action. You can locate a housing counselor in your area on our website.

How can a housing counselor help me?

Housing counselors are knowledgeable about available programs to help struggling homeowners. They can review your specific situation, identify your options and help you make an informed decision.

Will I have to pay taxes on the portion of my loan(s) my current lender(s) "write off" or forgive?

You should contact the Internal Revenue Service at (800) TAX-1040, or your tax advisor regarding tax-related questions.


© http://www.hud.gov/hopeforhomeowners/index.cfm

[This is a reprint from the HUD Website. I have been searching for the mortgage modification terms that the FHFA will enact. However, as of today, no information is available on this issue. See. www.fhfa.gov ]



Hugh Wood, Esq.
Wood & Meredith, LLP
3756 LaVista Road
Suite 250
Atlanta (Tucker), GA 30084
www.woodandmeredith.com
hwood@woodandmeredith.com
www.hughwood.blogspot.com
Phone: 404-633-4100
Fax: 404-633-0068

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

What are the top refinance questions or concerns?

Reverse Mortgages Canada said...

This is very important news. My mom is waiting for this to be posted. She really wants to know more about this thing so that she will know what to do about her mortgages.

Driver Finder Review said...

How much does it cost the home owner to get a mortgage refinanced? I really hope it's not that much :-)