Friday, April 24, 2009

Qualify for a Loan Modification

As much as possible, banks do not want to foreclose on a homeowner. They would rather grant loan modification on an existing homeowner’s loan rather than foreclose the property. But this doesn’t mean that bank readily grant loan modifications to all those who are requesting for it. There are guidelines with which to adhere and the borrower should be able to comply with it.

To get a modification, you need to be able to make payments. That is why in a loan modification, the lender and borrower would renegotiate on an existing loan and agree on a new payment scheme. This new scheme would have to be effective enough in order for a borrower continue paying the loan.

Here are some cases wherein loan modification qualification is based:
  • Homeowners in default or at risk of default may qualify for loan modifications, which restructure the terms of loans.
  • Anyone with high combined mortgage debt compared to income or who is underwater may be eligible for a loan modification.
  • Borrowers will have to prove they have sufficient income to be able to keep up their loan payments.
  • Those who are seeking for loan modification should also explain in detail what made them fall behind on payments and show that it was out of their hands.
  • Lenders will also look at your previous mortgage statements to see how you handled it before you fell behind.

Understand that a loan modification is a negotiation between you and your bank. Be smart when you are working on your modification. Use your leverage and don’t be intimidated. Banks wants you in that home making your steady monthly payment. Use a realistic, reasonable and documents supported proposal, banks should eventually agree. You are trying to work out an agreement with your lender and you need to convince them that your proposal is worthy of their consideration. Banks do not want to foreclose as much as possible. Any bank would rather collect lower payments than none at all.

Learn more on how to qualify for a loan modification. We give obligation-free pre-qualifying consultation on the matter.