by The Offer Company 
Are you worried about losing your home to foreclosure? If so, you are not alone. The Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) can help you keep your home and avoid foreclosure. This article will provide an overview of HAMP, its benefits, how to qualify, how to apply, and potential challenges and risks associated with the program.
Introduction
Foreclosure is a legal process where a homeowner’s right to their property is terminated due to failure to pay their mortgage. The Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) was introduced in 2009 by the United States government as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP). It provides financial assistance in the form of loan modifications for homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure because they cannot afford their current mortgage payments.
Benefits of HAMP
The primary benefit of HAMP is that it allows homeowners to obtain more affordable loan payments by reducing interest rates, extending payment terms, or principal reduction. This enables homeowners struggling to pay their monthly mortgage payments to get some reprieve from these heavy burdens. Secondly, if an eligible homeowner wishes to stay in their home but struggles financially, HAMP may be able to provide a solution that helps them maintain ownership over their property by modifying the terms of their mortgage.
Qualifying for HAMP
In order to qualify for this program, there are certain eligibility requirements that must be met:
- The loan must have been taken out after January 1, 2009
- The loan must be owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac
- You must occupy the property as your primary residence
- You must be able to demonstrate financial hardship through evidence such as income reduction or unemployment status
Additionally, your annual household income should fall within certain limits as outlined below:
*If you do not meet all these criteria but still need help avoiding foreclosure, contact The Offer Company at 602-448-7377 to speak with a foreclosure avoidance specialist who will provide other solutions available outside this program.
Applying for HAMP
To apply for HAMP you need to complete an application form which can be obtained from your lender or servicer. Once completed you have submitted this along with supporting documents such as proof of income and credit reports via mail or an online portal provided by your lender/servicer. Your lender/servicer will review your application and assign an account manager who will contact you directly once it has been approved. It is also advisable to contact The Offer Company if you need additional help with your application. Our personalized advice and support is completely free of charge, so you can benefit from the whole process with ease.
Potential Challenges & Risks With HAMP
Although there are several benefits associated with HAMP there are some drawbacks such as increased cost over time due to deferred interest added on the back end of a loan modification when compared with traditional refinancing options. Also, lenders may not offer repayment plans on a full-time basis, so make sure you check first. There is also no guarantee that applying through this program means your home will remain yours as lenders/servicers may decide not to grant approval even if all necessary criteria has been met. Lastly, although applying through this program does not affect one’s credit score, missed payments prior to application or during the negotiation period could still occur therefore potentially affecting one’s credit score overall.
Conclusion
If you have found yourself struggling financially and unsure what options are available to help keep ownership over your own property then looking into HAMP might prove a useful option worth considering. However, it is vitally important to consult professionals like The Offer Company who can assist in guiding homeowners throughout the complicated process involving this program and ensure successful outcomes avoiding foreclosure altogether. For more information feel free to contact us at 602-448-7377.
The Offer Company
(602) 448-7377
Don’t wait until it’s too late – visit our How to Save Your Home from Foreclosure page for the help and guidance you need.
