Saturday, July 2, 2011

Emergency Homeowners Loan Program

HUD and the nonprofit housing advocacy group NeighborWorks America started a program last week offering loans that don't actually need to be repaid, if applicants meet certain requirements.

 
The loans available to around 30,000 applicants, are interest-free. Payments go directly to the lender for a portion of the borrower's monthly mortgage, including missed payments or past due charges. And when the assistance period -- which runs for up to two years -- ends, 20% of the loan is forgiven with each passing year. In other words, for qualified borrowers who stay in their home for at least five years after the assistance period and who don't fall behind on their mortgage again, this money doesn't have to be paid back.

If they sell their home before the entire loan is forgiven, they'll be on the hook for the remaining amount. The same holds true if they fall behind on their mortgage payments again: they'll need to repay the remaining balance of the loan when they sell or refinance their home. Separately, borrowers aren't required to have equity in their home to receive this money.

While the limit each person will get is up to $50,000, loans will average about $35,000 per person, according to NeighborWorks America.

To be eligible, homeowners must have lost income and be at risk of foreclosure due to involuntary job loss, underemployment or a medical or other economic condition; details on the application process are available online through NeighborWorks America.

Applications will be taken through July 22nd.

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