Federal Programs

FAQs and Related Information

Part of the frustration and despair that hangs over foreclosures is not knowing what help might be available. A bank may not even tell you that there are alternatives to foreclosure!

HAMP and other Federal programs are set up to provide banks with incentives to modify your loan rather than foreclose on you. Confusion reigns because some banks may not participate in one or another mortgage modification programs listed here, and even if they do they may give you the runaround.

Some people have had success obtaining mortgage modifications through these programs, while some people have been shafted by their banks and foreclosed on anyway. Therefore we suggest that you not approach these programs as panacea, but as just one avenue to be pursued while always being on your guard, always looking out for your bank’s failures to keep its promises or meet its obligations and deadlines.

Programs:

  • HAMP — Home Affordable Modification Program
  • HARP — Home Affordable Refinance Program
  • 2MP — Second Lien Modification Program
  • UP — Home Affordable Unemployment Program
  • HAMA — Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program

According to the website:

Servicers participating in the HAMP program are not allowed to proceed with a foreclosure sale while you are being evaluated for HAMP. In order to conduct the HAMP evaluation, your servicer must receive all the required documents prior to seven business days before the scheduled foreclosure sale date.

HAMP Hotline:
Help is a Phone Call Away
888-995-HOPE (4673)
Hearing impaired: 877-304-9709 TTY

As you enter a process that can sometimes be overwhelming, it would be in your best interest to engage a housing expert to help you along the way. Let a HUD-approved housing counselor help you understand your options, prepare your application, and work with your mortgage company.

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