Banks Are Not Playing Fair During Home Loan Modification

National banks that took federal bail-out money also agreed to participate in government home modification programs. These banks have created in-house loan negotiators to assist in home-loan modifications, which may reduce loan principle or interest to adjust the loan to an affordable rate. Many American homeowners have applied for these programs, but few have been approved. In many cases the empty promise of home loan modification leaves the homeowner in a worse position than when he started.

It has become clear that these banks are simply not playing fair. Several lawsuits have been filed against national banks alleging fraud. A federal lawsuit was recently filed by the State of Nevada Attorney General against Bank of America, the nation's largest home loan servicer, alleging deceptive practices. Additionally, a class-action lawsuit against Bank of America is pending in Massachusetts federal court. These suits claim that Bank of America deceived consumers into depleting their savings by making mortgage payments based on false hopes they'd be eligible to modify their home mortgages. The lawsuits allege that BOA accepted $25 billion from the U.S. government in 2008 as part of the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), but has failed to participate in programs such as the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) aimed to minimize foreclosures.

If you are in need of a home modification, review your options with an experienced bankruptcy attorney. Many Chapter 13 bankruptcy filers are able to strip away a second or third mortgage, or pay past-due payment over three to five years. Bankruptcy filers can also apply for government programs such as HAMP during the bankruptcy case, while under the protection and supervision of a federal bankruptcy court judge.

Contact the experienced Chicago bankruptcy attorneys at Glanzer & Associates, P.C. at 1-312-644-2227 to discuss your specific situation, and to schedule your free, in-person consultation.