Use caution when considering foreclosure and debt mitigation
- Michelle Wood: SWCD
- October 4, 2009
- 686
A: First, you should be especially alert, in these economically trying times, for solutions that sound too good to be true. They usually are. Second, do not engage any organization that requests an up-front deposit (typically $500 to $1,500) to help you negotiate with your lenders, or offers to buy your house and rent it back to you with the opportunity for you to repurchase it later. These organizations are not attorneys and cannot represent you in court. The money you advance to such an organization might be applied, instead, to reduce your debt or to hire an attorney who specializes in debtor representation. Organizations such as the Consumer Credit Counseling Service (now nationally known as Apprisen Financial Advocates) can help you with these problems, do not require up-front money, and will suggest that you consult an attorney if and when it is determined that you need one.
If you do need to consult an attorney who represents debtors and handles bankruptcies, you may wish to contact your local bar association for an attorney referral. The attorney can negotiate with lenders and credit card companies, represent you in court if lawsuits have been filed, and help you determine whether your financial problems can be solved without resorting to bankruptcy filing. If bankruptcy is necessary, the attorney can handle that filing.
Q: What are some things I can do to resolve the foreclosure problem myself?
A: You can contact the loss mitigation department of your mortgage lender to discuss the possibility of modifying your loan. This may involve extending the term of the loan, lowering the interest rate, reducing monthly payments, or putting some of the missed payments at the end of the loan. To apply for loan modification, you will need to complete budget forms provided by the lender, write a hardship letter explaining your current situation, and provide any documents your mortgage lender may request – typically tax returns, bank statements and pay stubs. Your mortgage lender also may require you to pay some money to reimburse the lender for any advances that may have been made on your behalf for taxes and insurance.
Q: Does Ohio have a program to help people facing foreclosure?
A: Yes. You may qualify for help through Ohio's Save the Dream program. This program is designed to help consumers avoid foreclosure and save their homes. Many borrowers have received help from volunteer attorneys and mediators across the state. For details about this program and access to a wide variety of resources, visit www.savethedream.ohio.gov/ or call 888-404-4674.
Q: How might I resolve my other credit issues myself?
A: Regarding other debts, including debt related to credit cards and various types of bank loans, contact the creditor directly. You should do this as soon as you begin to experience credit problems. Ignoring the problems will not make them go away. With your creditor, you can discuss the possibilities of deferred payments, interest-only payments or lump-sum settlements, and your creditor may be receptive to one of these solutions if the alternative is having your debt discharged in a bankruptcy.
This Law You Can Use column was provided by the Ohio State Bar Association (OSBA). It was prepared by Akron attorney Terry D. Zimmerman, of Hardesty, Kaffen & Zimmerman. The column offers general information about the law. Seek an attorney's advice before applying this information to a legal problem.