Moving Ahead After a Foreclosure

The housing market debacle that occurred in 2008 is still giving millions of US citizens stress. Many families are yet to recover completely from the difficult situations they had to face. Families invest their biggest resources into buying a home. Even more than money, it takes a world of emotions and dreams to build homes. Losing a home can be a very distressing situation, emotionally as well as in financial terms.

Many people, owing to loss of income and other negative economic events, had to lose the ownership of their much loved home due to a foreclosure. A foreclosure is a legal process in which the mortgage lenders force the sale of the asset (home, in this case) used as a collateral in the loan documents. Following the years after the economic recession of 2008, even people with good credit scores faced extenuating financial circumstances.

As per Mortgagee Letter 2013-26, people who went through a foreclosure are eligible to be a part of the Back to Work Home Mortgage Loan program. This program, which gives would be homeowners a second chance at mortgage after foreclosure, was welcomed by borrowers as they no longer had to wait for three years to seek a new home loan. The program reduced the waiting period to just one year after the foreclosure date.

If you have been through a foreclosure, it is best to look for a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) approved lender who assures you of sustainability throughout your loan duration and helps you with the new program. Borrowers have time till September, 2016, as the program will not be in effect after that.

When taking part in the program, you will not face any premium on your interest rate or additional closing fees.

To be eligible, borrowers need to meet a few requirements. They must submit documentation to prove that they have been through adverse financial situations.

HUD Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 defines an economic event as, "Any occurrence beyond the borrower’s control that results in a loss of employment, loss of income or a combination of both, which causes a reduction in the borrower’s household income of 20 percent or more for a period of at least six months”.

Borrowers must demonstrate a strong intent to make future payments, and thus lenders look for job stability in borrowers. Borrowers must attend a counseling session on mortgage loans before applying. Further, a minimum credit score of 500 is a pre-requisite. However, those with no credit scores also qualify for the Back to work home mortgage loan. Also, the credit history should be without any delinquency in the last 12 months of applying.

The Back to Work program has made life better for millions of Americans, giving them a second chance at mortgage after a foreclosure.

Home Mortgage Lenders Jargon Defined

A guide to understand the language that Back to Work program lenders are using

Whether you’re a first-time home-buyer or a repeat homeowner, some of the terms mortgage lenders use may seem confusing and even intimidating. However, their language really isn’t as complex as it may seem. Use this guide to decipher the “Back to Work” home loan process and become better prepared to meet with a lender.

Mortgage
A mortgage is a document that specifies that the home you are buying is a collateral item for the money you are borrowing. In other words, if you fail to make payments, your home will get taken away. Lenders hold the right to take possession of any property upon a borrower’s failure to repay a loan.

Good Faith Estimate (GFE)
A GFE is a document that shows an estimate of all of the fees and costs of a new mortgage. Lenders must complete this document within three days of a borrower submitting a loan application. When the document is completed, the lender will mail it directly to you. Prospective borrowers use this document to compare fees between different lenders and to better prepare for the overall cost of a new mortgage.

Credit History
A credit history is a financial record that shows how you have handled money and debts. Oftentimes, a person’s credit history will determine if they may qualify for a loan and the rate at which it must be paid back. A credit report shows if you have promptly paid bills, how much available credit you have and your total outstanding debts.

Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
An APR is an interest rate that is expressed numerically in annual terms. An APR always includes additional costs (such as mortgage insurance and broker fees), which is why it always higher than a regular interest rate. An APR can help borrowers easily compare rates charged by other lenders.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA)
The FHA features loans that are insured by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. These loans are known for having low down payments. Back to Work program lenders allow borrowers to put down only 3.5 percent with no premiums or fees at closing.

Origination Fee
An origination fee is often required to be paid when a borrower is applying for a new mortgage. This fee is used to cover the cost of the application, appraisal and any follow-up work associated with a new mortgage.

Debt-To-Income Ratio
Home mortgage lenders look at debt-to-income ratio to ensure a borrower will be able to repay a loan. Lenders compare monthly payments, including the potential new mortgage, to the borrower’s monthly income. The result is displayed as a percentage.

Equity
Equity is the difference between the value of the home and the mortgage loan. In general, the equity on a home will increase over time as the value of the home increases and the amount of debt on a loan decreases.

How to Approach a Second-Chance Mortgage After Foreclosure

Beginning a new home loan application through “Back to Work”

Don’t be intimidated by complex loan processes; use these steps to help you get back in the housing world after foreclosure.

1. Find the right lender
 Most lending agencies and banks turn away families who have faced substantial economic events in fear that it will happen again. However, agencies that offer the “Back to Work” program are understanding and will listen to your story. They have experience handling financial problems just like yours. The program is offered at lending agencies in all fifty states, which is designed for families who need a second-chance mortgage after foreclosure or another economic event.

2. Take housing counseling
You may be surprised by what you could learn from a housing counselor. Although your economic event may have been out of your control, a housing expert could provide you with life-changing financial advice. The FHA requires all “Back to Work” participants to complete at least one hour of one-on-one housing counseling. The agency must be approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and take place at least 30 days, but no more than six months prior to submitting a new loan application.

Housing counseling is designed to help families avoid making the same mistakes twice. They teach how to avoid scams and how to create and assess a household budget. Perhaps most importantly, they teach how to avoid repeating the same economic event again. This gives borrowers and lending agencies confidence that beginning a new home loan is a good idea.

3. Boost your credit
Although an event like foreclosure will stay on your credit history report for up to seven years, it’s never too early or too late to start boosting your credit score. “Back to Work” participants must have credit scores above 500. Borrowers must be able to provide a 12-month credit-history report that is clear of late housing, installment debt payments, delinquency and any other derogatory credit issues. Those with no credit whatsoever remain eligible.

4. Gather documentation
All “Back to Work” borrowers must be able to provide proof of a previous economic event. This can be shown through a Verification of Employment (VOE), W-2 form, old pay stubs or signed tax returns from the past two or three years. Lenders will also want to see recent copies of your pay stubs (30 days worth), and a clear copy of both your driver’s license and Social Security card.

If you receive additional income from Social Security, child support, alimony or a pension award, provide proof that will verify it. Also bring bank statements from the past two or three months from every checking and savings account you have, as well as 401K or other stock accounts. Any person who is signing the loan should bring all of these documents to apply for a new mortgage. This will help determine your financial situation after foreclosure and if the “Back to Work” loan is the right second-chance mortgage for your family.

What do I need to do to get ready to buy my first home?

Are you considering buying your first home? Congratulations! You probably have a million questions. Let's start with what you should do to prepare to buy your first home. These steps will help get you off to the right start, in the home-buying process:

Evaluate your credit report.
Look for mistakes in data, inaccurate records and dollar amounts. Be sure to check the small details – the lenders look at everything. Scan every word and number so you can see if there are any issues or inconsistencies. For example, you may be surprised to find relatives on your credit report or possibly you have someone that is still a joint holder of a bank account. You will want to clean up any of these issues before you start the home purchasing process.

Look for credit cards that you no longer use. You might want to close some, but keep in mind that lenders like to see long-standing credit relationships. Consider keeping your oldest credit card open, even if you are not currently using it. Having too many lines of open credit can be viewed as a negative value on your credit report. With this in mind, consider closing newer credit cards, which aren't in use.

Carefully select your mortgage lender.
Consider interviewing multiple lenders, to aid in selecting which one you will use. Remember, you'll be establishing a long-term relationship with that lender. Check for references and check with the Better Business Bureau to verify that the lender is reputable. Make sure that you are comfortable with that potential partner.

Keep in mind that a lender might try to tempt you with a slightly lower interest rate. This is especially common with Internet based lenders. Keep in mind the whole picture, a low interest rate is only one factor to consider. Be sure to calculate the entire cost of the loan, not just the monthly cost. What will the mortgage cost you over twenty years?

You want your mortgage lender to be available to answer any questions you may have. The lender can provide you financing options and help you determine what you will be able to afford. In addition, the lender can help you review your credit report and give you advice on how to improve it, if needed.

Compile a list of needs and wants in your life.
This includes the home (backyard, two bedroom, etc.), the lender (flexibility, established, good references), your life goals and ambitions. Where do you want to be (in your life) in twenty years? Do you want children, college expenses, etc.? All of these types of decisions will have some effect upon the decision of purchasing a property and how you will finance that property.

It is easy to desire every possible home option, but the reality is you will have to work within a budget. Before looking at houses, determine what you really need and which things you could live without. Consider things like number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms, lot size, neighborhood, school system, commute time, and proximity to shopping and restaurants.

At 1st Alliance Lending, we work closely with first time homebuyers. We help them through every step of the home buying process. We want to be your trusted partner. Contact us to learn more about purchasing your first home.

The Advantages of New Home Mortgage Loans

Home mortgage loans now offer shorter waiting periods among other advantages for families with extenuating circumstances

The Federal Housing Administration’s new home mortgage loans suggest that millions of families are finally being rescued from the housing market crash of 2008. As of August of last year, borrowers who have faced extenuating circumstances have a program specifically designed for their financial struggles.

If you have faced foreclosure or another economic event that significantly reduced your credit score and caused you to lose your home and your job, you may be eligible to apply. Check out these top-four advantages of beginning Back to Work home mortgage loans.

1. Shorter waiting periods
After foreclosure, short sale and deed-in-lieu, the typical waiting period is three years. The waiting period after bankruptcy is normally two years and other economic events can last up to seven years. Through the “Back to Work” program, families battling extenuating circumstances can apply for a new mortgage only twelve months after losing a home. This is a dramatic and life-altering change for lenders and their borrowers.

In order to qualify for the reduced waiting period, the borrower must be able to provide proof of an economic event and a reduction in income of 20 percent or more for a period of at least six months. This can be documented through a federal tax return, W-2 form or written verification of employment.

2. Efficient rates
The “Back to Work” program allows families to put 3.5 percent down with no premiums nor fees at closing. Rates are the same as other FHA loans. Your mortgage rate will be unaffected by the “Back to Work” program. With other lending programs, a poor credit history could significantly change your repayment schedule. The program does not accept borrowers with credit scores below 500. However, borrowers with no credit score remain eligible.

3. Housing counseling
The FHA requires “Back to Work” borrowers to attend at least one hour of one-on-one housing counseling. Some borrowers may frown upon this requirement, but it is harmless and very beneficial to the borrower. During counseling, borrowers learn how to become better prepared for future financial shocks, how to avoid scams, and how to create and manage a household budget. The FHA hopes by requiring counseling, borrowers learning these actions will help prevent reoccurrence. The counseling agency must be approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. For a list of approved agencies, visit www.hud.gov.

4. Guidance designed for your situation
Lenders who provide the “Back to Work” program are understanding and willing to work with your financial situation. Good lenders are good listeners. Although applying for a new home loan after an economic event is stressful, lenders are excellent communicators and will disclose all fees and costs upfront. Search for a lender who has your best interest. Mortgage lenders should view you as a life-long customer, since you could be committing to a long-term repayment schedule.

Shopping For Your First Home Mortgage Loan

Shopping for your first home can be one of the most exciting events in your life. To ensure your home shopping experience goes smoothly and you get the best rate possible on your first home mortgage loan you will want to have your finances in order and be prepared to put a down payment on the home.

How To Improve Your Loan Terms
1. Pay off any outstanding balances on your credit cards before applying for your loan.

2. Pay creditors off and ask that they remove your account from any credit history.

3. Rebuild your credit score. (This will help you tremendously, as it will lower your interest rate, down payment requirement and the overall condition of your loan terms.) You will be glad you took the time to correct your credit history and score, as this will allow you to receive better loan terms. With better terms, you will be able to find a mortgage loan that you are confident and comfortable with, which will make paying for your new home much easier to manage.

When To Apply For Your Home Mortgage Loan
Applying for your mortgage loan before you begin shopping is a great option, as this will allow you to be pre-approved for your loan amount and make you 100% aware of your shopping budget. This also allows you to submit offers on the home that you are most interested in without having to wait weeks to see if the lender will approve the amount.

If you are serious about buying your first home we would like to guide you about loan options and terms that may fit your circumstance. Our focus is to create loans that are sustainable for our borrowers so they are set up for homeowner success, now and in the many years to come. Feel free to Contact us today about your options for a new home loan.

New Home Mortgage Loan Process for First Time Buyers

Are you a new home-buyer wondering what the process is for obtaining a mortgage?  It is not as complicated as it seems especially if you have a lender working as a partner with you.  At 1st Alliance Lending we will be on your team as you navigate the loan process.

Submit a Loan Application

The first step is to submit a loan application.  You will need to include proof of your income by submitting 30 days worth of pay stubs.  You will provide your drivers license and social security card so a credit history can be examined.  Tax forms and W-2s from the past 2-3 years are also requested.  You may be requested to provide bank statements and a list of your addresses for the past 7 years.  If you have had a financial hardship in the past that you would like to explain you can include a Hardship Letter.  Many financial institutions will not take into account job loss or illness of a family member impacting previous credit performance.  At 1st Alliance Lending we want to know the details and will take information provided in a Hardship Letter into account when evaluating your application.  

If all of this documentation seems like a lot of work just realize that after you submit your loan application your homework is done.  Now it is time for 1st Alliance Lending to do the work.  

)

Application is Processed

After your application is completed we will provide you a Good Faith Estimate (GFE), which gives our best estimate of the fees and costs you will incur to obtain a mortgage.  We provide the GFE within 3 days of application as required by law.

Processing the application typically takes 1 week and includes verifying it has been filled out completely and accurately.  We evaluate public records to see if there are any liens.  Occasionally additional information or documentation may be requested.

Options Presented

You will be presented the rate and loan options that you qualify for.  In general, better credit history equals a better interest rate and more options available.  Keep in mind that 1st Alliance Lending doesn't just rely on your credit number but looks at the whole picture to determine which loan is appropriate for you.  We strive to provide you with a mortgage you can afford long term.

If you are ready to partner with 1st Alliance Lending to procure a new home mortgage loan contactus.  We would be happy to be on your team and walk you through the mortgage process.

Check Your Credit Before Buying Your First Home

Like most first time home-buyers, you don't have the money to pay the full price in cash for your purchase. So you'll need to depend on a mortgage to finance the deal. Lenders look at the price of the house, down payment, and monthly dues to partially qualify you for a loan. However, they also look at your credit report and credit score to determine your payment rate and terms.

While you can't get your score without paying for it, you can look at your credit report, so you know what the lender is examining. The report reveals your financial obligations, your payments to merchants and institutions, and whether you pay on time or not. You're entitled to one report every year from each of the three major credit agencies, which are Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. You can get each document for free from AnnualCreditReport.com, without any obligation or without having to sign up for financial services.

Check out your listings as soon as you download them. Make sure everything is correct, especially the merchant name, account number, amount owed, monthly payments, transaction history, and your record of payments. Find any discrepancies? Then let the merchant and reporting agency know as soon as possible. They're legally obligated to address any issues, however, that may take several weeks for the fix, so you want to start looking at your report many months before you apply for a mortgage.

Red flags for lenders include foreclosures, bankruptcies, or late payments. You can't do too much about these issues if they are accurate, but you can develop explanations of why they exist. For example, perhaps you lost your job and missed a few payments during that time.

If you're interested in obtaining a mortgage or want to find out more about the financing involved, please contactus. We will put your first and be your partner through the process.

How Prequalification Helps with Buying Your First Home

You've spent many months visiting models at new housing developments, visiting open houses, and arranging appointments to see existing properties for sale. You and your spouse have finally found the house of your dreams. It's in a perfect location, has enough square footage and bedrooms for your family, and boasts a host of excellent features like a gourmet kitchen and spa tubs. You apply for a mortgage to buy your first home and are denied. The lender says your down payment and income do not put you anywhere close to affording what you want.

You could have spared yourself the embarrassment and wasted time by undergoing prequalification before buying your first home. Going home-shopping without this prerequisite, as you've discovered, is like taking a long taxi ride and realizing you left your wallet at home. The process essentially looks at your income and expenses to determine how much home you can afford.

After you have been prequalified, you can use this knowledge to look for properties that are within your price range. Once you make an offer, the lender then examines your finances in detail before issuing you the mortgage. After prequalification, this examination is often just a formality because the lender already knows the state of your finances in advance.

To make the process go more quickly and efficiently, do what you can to clean up your finances before you apply. Pay off as many bills as possible to reduce your outstanding balances. You'll be able to afford more house if you have fewer monthly obligations.

Why don't you contactus today to find out more about obtaining a mortgage or getting prequalified?

Do You Qualify For The New Back To Work Lending Program?

With the new back to work lending program, lenders are all set and ready to help people who have gone through an adverse economic event. If this describes you, then there is no reason why you should miss out on this program. This HUD mortgage plan is aimed at giving you a new start if you have recently recovered from an economic downturn. In order to qualify you will need to prove that the economic event was caused by events that were not in your control. In addition you will need to show that the event reduced your household income by twenty percent or more for as long as a six month period. The FHA understands that sometimes life happens and you can’t do much about it.

If you have suffered foreclosure, pre-foreclosure, bankruptcy (either chapters 13 or 7), needed a loan modification or deed-in-lieu or forbearance, then you are a prime candidate for these loans. After you have documented your loss of income satisfactorily, your credit history will pretty much be forgiven and you can borrow money to buy your family a home.


One of the things to note, to the FHA’s credit, is that the loans are written with regular FHA standards. In fact you can get your new home with just a 3.5 percent down payment. The interest rates have also not been inflated but are the same as those of other FHA products. This has all been set up like that to ensure that the borrowers are not in any way penalized for an event that they could not have done anything about. Of note is that not all lenders are offering the back to work loan. Only specific ones have signed up with the FHA to provide this product.

In order to get approval with the new back to work lending program you will also be required to attend an hour of housing counseling or home ownership education or both. If you do not go through this counseling your loan will be denied. It is important that you have all of your documentation well put together and make sure that every requirement outlined by the FHA has been met. It is in your best interest to find an underwriter who is both confident that you can repay the loan and also one who is confident with your documentation.

With this loan you will be well on your way to getting your life back to the place it was before you suffered the economic event. We all understand how important it is to own a home. It is indeed a landmark event in the life of any person. Don’t let anything stop you from owning your dream home. Just get your documentation together, attend housing counseling and speak to a lender near you.

Want a Loan from Back To Work Mortgage Lenders? Get HUD Counseling First

Now that the FHA has a loan product to serve those who have been through a negative economic event it is important that you find out what the requirements are to qualify for the said loan. Loss of income, employment or both is what has been termed as an economic event. However, it needs to have reduced the income of the borrower’s household by at least twenty percent for more than 6 months. Back to work mortgage lenders have received instruction not to approve any loans unless the borrower has been through housing counseling.

If you are to get approval for a back to work home loan you need to have sat through a homeownership counseling and education class. Each borrower hoping to get an approval will need to have sat with a HUD approved counselor and had an hour of one-on-one counseling. This counseling is meant to review and analyze why the economic event occurred and to also find out what steps have been taken by the borrower to overcome the event. In addition, the counselor will also want to know what measures have been put in place to ensure that a reoccurrence is unlikely.


FHA back to work program lender by 1stalliancelendingllc

The counseling must be carried out by a housing counseling agency approved by HUD, or by intermediaries and sub-grantees that have been approved to do so. Finance agencies that work with state housing are also allowed to offer housing counseling. The counseling can take place online, by telephone or even via the internet, so long as HUD has approved of the method. It is also a requirement that the housing counseling session take place between 1 month and 6 months before the loan is applied for.

The borrower will need to provide the back to work mortgage lenders that he/she approaches with the certificate of participation that he/she has received from the HUD counseling agency. Unfortunately if this certificate is not submitted along with the other loan application forms, the borrower will not get the financing.

This loan is a great opportunity for those who have gone through bankruptcy – both chapters 7 and 13 - forbearance, pre-foreclosure, deed-in-lieu, foreclosure and loan modification- to get a fresh start. In fact, the long waiting periods before one could get a mortgage (2 years for bankruptcy and 3 years for foreclosure, deed-in-lieu and short sale) have been completely waived. Now if you can show proof that for the last 12 months you have been in economic recovery, gone through the necessary counseling and met your financial obligations, you can get a home loan easily and start on the path of becoming a home owner again.

Back to Work home loan requirements

The FHA and “Back to Work” mortgage lenders agree to set up home loan requirements

Beginning a new home loan can be an intimidating task because it seems there is so much to worry about. There are mortgage rates, premiums, fees at closing, waiting periods and credit requirements. Many lenders turn families away if their situation isn’t up to par.

Fortunately, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) stepped in last August to make beginning a new home loan easier for the fearful. Back to Work mortgage lenders cut down extensive waiting periods, which can be up to three years. Through the program, borrowers can begin a new loan only 12 months after losing their home.



The program is designed for families who have faced an unfortunate economic event, such as foreclosure, deed-in-lieu, short sale, bankruptcy or any other financial downturn that significantly affects a household’s income.

“An economic event is any occurrence beyond the borrower’s control that results in loss of employment, loss of income or a combination of both, which causes a reduction in the borrower’s household income of 20 percent or more for a period of at least six months,” Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 states.

In the program, mortgage rates are the same as any other FHA loan and borrowers may put down only 3.5 percent on a new mortgage with no premiums nor other fees at closing.

The FHA requires at least one hour of one-on-one housing counseling, which allows borrowers to receive more information on their loan options, obligations and how to set up a household budget.

Housing counseling must be approved by Housing and Urban Development and must address the cause of the family’s reduction in income. Counseling is to be completed a minimum of 30 days, but no more than six months prior to beginning a new loan.

“Housing counseling is an important resource for both first-time home buyers and repeat home owners,” Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 states.

Another requirement by the FHA is satisfactory credit, where many may begin to cringe. As long as the borrower’s credit history is clear of late housing and installment debt payments, and the borrower’s credit score is above 500, there shouldn’t be anything to worry about. If a borrower has no credit score whatsoever, he or she remains eligible.

And if a borrower is facing Chapter 13 bankruptcy and has not yet been discharged, he or she must obtain written permission from the Bankruptcy Court to begin a new Back to Work home loan.

Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 states, “FHA is continuing its commitment to fully evaluate borrowers who have experienced periods of financial difficulty due to extenuating circumstances.”

How to get a Back to Work mortgage loan after losing a job

The FHA’s “Back to Work” home mortgage promises a more stable financial future

Losing a job is tough in our economy — there are car payments, cell phone bills, the rising cost of gas, and most importantly, house payments. No family wants to worry about losing where they call home, and for those that have, it’s devastating.

August 15 of last year, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) launched its Back to Work mortgage loan, in which borrowers facing an unfortunate economic event can apply for a new home mortgage loan only 12 months after losing a home.

The FHA defines an economic event as “any occurrence beyond the borrower’s control that results in loss of employment, loss of income or a combination of both, which causes a reduction in the borrower’s hold income of 20 percent or more for a period of at least six months.” This applies to everyone in the household, not only one member.

To verify a loss of employment, the lender must receive a document evidencing the termination or loss of business.

The Back to Work home mortgage waives lending agencies’ traditional two or three year waiting periods and replaces them with only 12 months. Instead of waiting around, borrowers can now look for a new home and mortgage almost immediately.

However, the FHA does place some requirements. To be in the program, borrowers must agree to attend at least one hour of one-on-one housing counseling. The counseling must address the cause of the economic event, as well as enable the borrower to better understand loan options, obligations and how to manage money in his or her home.

Counselors assist borrowers in creating a household budget, as well as provide tips on avoiding scams and better preparing for future financial shocks.

The counseling must be Housing and Urban Development approved and completed between 30 days and six months prior to submitting a new mortgage application. This may be completed in person, via telephone or online. A list of participating agencies can be found at www.hud.gov.

“Housing counseling is an important resource for both first-time home buyers and repeat home owners,” the FHA said. “FHA is continuing its commitment to fully evaluate borrowers who have experienced periods of financial difficulty due to extenuating circumstances.”

Another requirement is satisfactory credit. This means the borrower’s credit history must be clear of late housing and installment debt payments. Credit scores below 500 are not allowed, but borrowers with no credit score are eligible in the program.

If your current lender is not taking part in “Back to Work” home mortgage, it’s not too late to switch. The program does not end until September 30, 2016. Once in the program, borrowers may put down only 3.5 percent on a new mortgage with no premiums nor additional fees at closing.

1st Alliance Lending, LLC from David Horgan

Mortgage restructure might be in your future

The housing market crash of 2008 devastated millions of families, many of which are still in battle. Job loss, foreclosure, short sale, bankruptcy, among other financial crises left mortgagees under the dust, behind on billing statements and in a search for a more promising monetary life.

Fortunately, the government recognized this problem last August. During a speech in Phoenix, President Barack Obama said, “We should give well-qualified Americans who lost their jobs during the crisis a fair chance to get a loan if they’ve worked hard to repair their credit.”



The “Back to Work - Extenuating Circumstances” lending program does just that — across the United States, the mortgage restructure offers a second chance by allowing families to apply for a new mortgage only 12 months after losing their home.

The Federal Housing Administration’s Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 states, “FHA recognizes the hardships faced by these borrowers, and realizes that their credit histories may not fully reflect their true ability or propensity to repay a mortgage.”

Those in the program do not face premiums nor additional fees at closing. In fact, the program is designed for families afraid of complex loan processes and those who have been turned down by other banks. Lenders are making it easy for those with negative credit histories.

To apply, borrowers must first have a home mortgage lender that offers the Back to Work program. Secondly, the family must be demonstrating a full recovery from at least one type of financial crisis, including prior foreclosure, prior short sale, bankruptcy, deed-in-lieu, loan modification or forbearance agreement.

Borrowers must agree to attend at least one hour of one-on-one housing counseling, required by the FHA. Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 states, “Housing counseling enables borrowers to better understand their loan options and obligations, and assists borrowers in the creation and assessment of their household budget.”

Still struggling and searching for a shorter waiting period? Looking for a more promising mortgage restructure? A home mortgage lender offering the “Back to Work” program is waiting to help.

Why you should consider Back to Work mortgage lenders

 Recovering from a home crisis? Switch lenders for the “Back to Work” home loan

The housing market crash of 2008 definitely left its mark, as millions of families are still financially recovering. This past August, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) launched the Back to Work home loan, giving these folks hope and a chance to financially reestablish. However, not all mortgage lenders have jumped on the FHA’s train, leaving many families behind. If you’re stuck in the dust, here’s why you should consider “Back to Work” mortgage lenders.

“Am I eligible?”
According to Mortgagee Letter 2013-26, a family experiencing deed-in-lieu, prior foreclosure, bankruptcy, prior short sales or forbearance agreements is eligible to apply for this program. The family has to qualify for the program by demonstrating recovery from their financial crisis. The Federal Housing Administration insures mortgage loans in all territories of the US, in all 50 states, as well as in the District of Columbia – you are sure to find one close to your place.



“How will the program help me?”
The program aims to help families that are trying to gain financial steadiness to qualify for a new mortgage program without long waiting periods – just 12 months after home loss. After you’re accepted into the Back to Work program, you need not have to incur a premium on your interest rate nor extra fees at closing. Families have to meet with a housing counselor, who will advise on buying a home, credit issues, reverse mortgages and foreclosure avoidance.

“Will the program help my credit score?”
After unfortunate financial events, some families face a credit drop of up to 250 points. Although this can be disheartening, however, re-entering the real estate market and applying for the loan is worth it. Once you are in the program and making on-time monthly payments, your credit score will gain a boost. Also, a housing counselor can offer credit-boosting advice.

Extenuating circumstances, one-time occurring events that are beyond a borrower’s control, results in a sudden and prolonged significant fall in income or a catastrophic surge in financial obligations. Financial crises are not always your fault and you deserve a way out. If your family has begun financial recovery, consider how “Back to Work” mortgage lenders can help.

New “Back to Work” lending program helps borrowers regain financial stability

The “Back to Work” loan program launches to save families from repeating the same mortgage mistakes twice

The new “Back to Work” lending program is designed to ensure successful home-ownership for families who have previously had financial hardships. Launched in August, the program may save millions of families who continue to suffer from the housing market crash of 2008, offering a second chance and brighter future.

One beneficial key factor in the program is that families may now apply for a new mortgage only 12 months after losing their home. The program waives the two-year waiting period after experiencing a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. The lessened waiting period will allow families to get back on track sooner, as long as they can prove they’re demonstrating full recovery from their financial loss.

Most families in the program face prior foreclosure, but some also face prior short sales, loan modification, deed-in-lieu, forbearance agreements and even bankruptcy. Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 specifies who in eligible in what circumstances.

If you are dealing with foreclosure or short sale, you first need to apply to the Back to Work loan program with a Federal Housing Administration approved lender. After acceptance, there will be neither a premium nor an additional fee at closing. You will also need to attend housing counseling, where you will receive advice on buying a home and credit issues among other helpful guidance. Mortgage companies typically recommend that your monthly mortgage payment does not exceed 28 percent of your gross income.

Rebuilding credit may seem frightening, but the new Back to Work lending program gets borrowers back on track. Paying a monthly house bill will boost your credit, which makes buying a home a great place to begin financial reconstruction, especially with the support of a housing counselor. Since families must demonstrate they are becoming financially stable before program acceptance, your credit score will start to revamp itself.

Almost any family that has had a financial crisis can apply for the lending program. If your current lender does not participate in the new “Back to Work” lending program, finding a new lender will not be difficult. There are insured loans in all 50 states, all U.S. territories and in the District of Columbia. More than ever, mortgage companies are ready to help any family still suffering from the housing crash; your new financial life starts now.

Financial Lenders – Offering Sustainable Lending Products

The dream of home-ownership and the ability to provide a safe and loving place for a family is a common hope for many. Reaching that dream can be a challenging and confusing journey. Navigating financial adversity and endless requirements for obtaining a loan can be a very frustrating process, which is why many reach out to lending firms for guidance.

It is important to find the right lending company to suit your needs. Most firms determine home mortgage loan eligibility based on credit scores, so if you have a less than perfect financial history, you will need to be mindful to reach out to a lending firm that considers more than a 3-digit credit score when determining whether or not to extend you a loan.

There are a few companies that give weight to an individual’s history, unique circumstance, and drive to overcome adversity and get back on their feet. These firms consider things like; what caused your financial trouble in the first place, are you successfully paying your bills now, and have you begun to re-establish financial stability. They pledge to be your lending partner and recommend a home mortgage loan that is right for you now and for the long term in order to set your up for success.

For first time buyers, this is an especially important relationship. Finding the right home mortgage lender who will guide you to a loan that makes sense for your situation increases the chances that you will be able to maintain your loan and build a secure future for your family.

These types of lenders truly can help you turn your dreams into reality.  

Homeowners Can Look Beyond Credit Scores

“Home is a place you grow up wanting to leave, and grow old wanting to get back to.” - John Ed Pearce

A hand to hold onto and a heart to listen to you, is what we expect when we visit a lending company during financial crisis. The fear of denial lurks in our minds but a ray of hope takes us to lending companies expecting words of wisdom, empathy, guidance to give us a second chance.

Owners planning to refinance a home mortgage often face challenges, especially if they have low credit score, below 620. The common practice is to approve loans on the basis of credit scores. Doors are open for homeowners with high credit scores. However, for people with low credit scores, the scenario is different.

• Common Reasons for Low Credit Score

Some of the common reasons for low credit score are:

• Late or missed bill payments
• High level of current debt
• Bankruptcy or foreclosure
• Missed credit card payments
• Recently closed credit card

• Effect of Low Credit Score

Homeowners or people, who have lost their homes and wish to buy a new one, find it difficult to find financing when they have a low credit score. Lending companies reserve prime loans for applicants having high credit scores. Sub-prime loans are offered to people with low credit scores. The loans have low teaser rates, high fees and high prepayment penalties. However, the process is not as rosy as it seems. There are hidden facts that applicants are not aware of. Initially, the low teaser rates attract homeowners trying to minimize monthly payments. However, in course of time, the interest rate goes up. Eventually, homeowners who default on loans can lose their homes built with dreams, aspirations and toil.

There are some lending companies that believe in the philosophy of empathy, to help borrowers during crisis. With housing market recovering at a rapid pace, increase in household wealth can be projected. This will be beneficial in home mortgage financing. There are companies offering mortgage and lending options to help borrowers sustain the crisis. Instead of focusing on numbers, they take a customized approach to hear out the problem of buyers, get an idea about the current financial status of the borrower and offer a suitable plan to lead way to their dream home.

Homeowners or people aspiring to make an abode for themselves can look beyond the three digit number.

Lenders make a big difference when buying a home

When you think of buying a new home for yourself, there are mixed feelings of happiness and stress. Happiness because we know that a home is where families live and grow together, a place where bonds develop and love blossoms. The stress is about the complexities of home mortgage loans. Home-ownership is a serious commitment that lasts for many years. It is important that we manage our monthly installments in a way that we are able to make regular payments without any defaults.

On the one hand, buying a home is a symbol of security, and on the other it is associated with a sense of responsibility. At this instance, we need the assistance of a reliable lending company who can provide us with the understanding of loan procedures and payment details.

There are a few factors that must be considered carefully when you decide to buy a home:

• Added financial responsibility: Apart from the monthly loan installments, there are other expenses such as utilities, maintenance, taxes and insurance which are inevitable with the purchase of a home.

• Risk possibility: There is always a risk factor associated with such a significant purchase. Although the value of a property increases over time, there are chances that it may go down.

 • Lesser flexibility: As a renter, it is possible to shift to a new place at a short notice. However, it is very complicated to sell a home and move to a new one.

There are some lenders who earn the trust of their borrowers through their dedicated and caring approach. They act as a partner throughout the process and enable borrowers to make a planned decision by giving them information about the different loan options available. The experts invest time to figure out the requirements of the borrowers and provide them with the best solutions.

When we purchase a home, it is quite an accomplishment. It is part of the American dream. When we get assistance from a trustworthy lending company, buying a home becomes a much more manageable experience.

A new beginning after foreclosure

In 2008, the financial services firm of Lehman Brothers crashed and nearly 25,000 people lost their jobs. After this, the American dream of owning a home was shattered for many. It was the worst financial collapse since the Great Depression of the 1930’s and it led to a complete financial meltdown. What followed the crisis was widespread unemployment and foreclosure for many. It was a great setback for homeowners who were forced to give up their homes because they were unable to make their payments on their home mortgage loans. It was an unforeseen circumstance that came without warning.

For many, foreclosure is a painful reality because it is associated with one of the most important possessions of our lives – our homes. A home is more than a structure with four walls; it’s our dream, a world where our families can feel safe. In the case of financial hardships, when we have no other options but to accept a foreclosure, we feel broken. At this point, it is important to understand that foreclosure is not the end. With lending companies who care, there can be a new beginning in assuring the possession of a new house.

Usually, a borrower who has gone through foreclosure is supposed to wait for years before applying for home mortgage loans. There are a few lending companies who work with borrowers sooner with the aim of helping people get into a new home, even after foreclosure. Such lenders have the ability to walk in the borrowers’ shoes and understand their situation. Unlike other lenders who make re-entering the market difficult, there are some lending companies who try to figure out the circumstances of the borrower and work with them. In return, the borrowers invest their trust in them because of the lender’s interest in helping them start anew.

Not all lenders take the time to understand and identify the causes of previous struggles. There are a few, however, who possess the understanding and experience to deal with the emotions of people who face helplessness in times of hardships. The true separation between such compassionate lenders and their competitors lies in the reliability and determination to provide solutions that will last in the long run.