A simple blog where we discuss mortgages in general and reverse mortgages in particular. No financial product is really for everyone. But armed with more knowledge and information, more consumers will be able to make a decision that is right for them.
Homeowners who hope to refinance existing mortgages that are "underwater" just got a reprieve that will allow them another year to do so. The Federal Home Financing Agency announced Monday that its Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP), which was originally set to expire on June 30, 2010, will be extended to June 30, 2011. HARP, part of the Making Home Affordable Program, is designed to expand access to refinancing for otherwise qualified borrowers who cannot move into more affordable mortgages because of a lack of equity in their homes. Unlike other homeownership assistance programs, HARP guidelines are designed for borrowers who are current on their mortgages. The program was originally designed to help homeowners with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio up to 105 percent including those with some equity but not enough to refinance without private mortgage insurance. Last October that LTV figure was revised upward to 125 percent. Acting FHFA Director Ed DeMarco said tha...
Wikimedia Commons Ouch! Earlier this week it was announced that Citigroup had settled the inquiry into the company’s mortgage practices – to the tune of $7 billion. The deal, which was settled with the Justice Department, represents one of the largest settlements ever made in response to a federal inquiry; specifically in terms of the penalties levied. Of the $7 billion, $4 billion was in penalties alone while $2.5 billion will go towards providing mortgage modifications to homeowners. Another $500 million will go to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp and 5 separate states.
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