If you struggle to make your mortgage payments, a mortgage modification may be a good option. However, it is crucial to understand that loan modification is a complex process that is not always guaranteed. If you are considering a mortgage modification, read through this guide to learn everything you need to know beforehand.

Click Here To Connect With Wesley Mortgage Today And Begin Your Own Mortgage Journey

What Is Mortgage Modification? 

Mortgage modification is the process of amending a mortgage's terms and conditions due to loss mitigation. Modification is a prudent option for homeowners wishing to lower their mortgage payment, reduce their interest rate, change the loan repayment length, or alter other loan terms and conditions to make it more affordable. 

‍

To qualify for a mortgage modification, you must demonstrate that you are experiencing financial hardship. That could mean that you have lost your job, your income has decreased, or you have experienced a medical emergency. You must also provide your lender with documentation of your financial hardship.

How Does Mortgage Modification Work?

Here are the steps involved in mortgage modification:

1. Apply for a modification: Contact the loan lender and request a modification application. You can usually find the application on the lender's website or by calling their customer service number.
2. Provide documentation: Deliver proof to your lender of your financial hardship. That could include your most recent pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns.
3. Undergo an eligibility review: The lender will review the application and determine whether you qualify for a modification.
4. Negotiate the terms of the modification: If you get approved, you will need to negotiate the terms and conditions with the lender. That may include things like interest rate, the length of the loan, and other changes to the terms of your mortgage.
5. Sign the modification agreement: Once you have agreed to the new terms, you must sign a modification agreement. This agreement will outline the new terms of your mortgage.
6. Make the new payments: Once you have signed the modification agreement, you must make the new payments as agreed upon. The new payment plan is based on your current income and expenses. 

‍

Homeowners are required to make their new payments for a specified period of time, usually three to five years. If you make all your payments on time during that time, your mortgage modification will be permanent. Alas, if you miss a payment or fall behind, your lender may cancel your mortgage modification. 

Types of Mortgage Modification

‍

Mortgage Refinancing 

A common mode of a mortgage modification is refinancing. A mortgage refinance is when the homebuyer takes out a new mortgage to replace the original. It is a great way to reduce rates, increase the life of the loan, or even change the type of mortgage. To learn more about refinancing and whether it is an appropriate option, click here.

Debt Relief 

A significant reason for a modification is debt relief. Modifying a mortgage can make the debt more manageable. In some cases (e.g., financial hardship), lenders may agree to pause monthly payments long enough for homeowners to regain their footing. This modification may involve lowering the interest, extending the life of the loan, or even forgiving a portion of the mortgage in extreme cases.

Foreclosure

Foreclosure is a process where the lender reclaims a property from a borrower who has defaulted on the loan. When a homeowner fails to make payments on time, the lender can begin the foreclosure process, resulting in the homeowner losing the property. A mortgage modification can help relieve the fiscal burden of a mortgage, which may allow the borrower to escape foreclosure.

Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is the legal declaration that an individual or entity cannot pay its debts. When this transpires, debts need to be alleviated or restructured, which can be achieved with a mortgage modification. The mortgage may be forgiven altogether in some cases, such as Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Loan Modification Programs

Loan modification programs are opportunities offered by mortgage companies. The four primary programs offered include interest rate deduction, term extension, principal modification, and forbearance. 

‍

The interest rate deduction reduces the interest being charged on the mortgage. The term extension involves increasing the life of the loan, which reduces monthly payments. The principal modification keeps the interest rate the same but forgives part of the principal. Lastly, forbearance is when the creditor pauses the payments for an agreed-upon amount of time to assist the borrower.

Home Loan Modification 

Home loan modification refers to this process in the context of a primary residence with a conventional mortgage. It is the most common type of mortgage modification and can be achieved via all the programs listed above.

FHA Loan Modification 

Despite being FHA-insured, FHA loans are modified like standard home loans. The one significant difference is that the Federal Housing Administration government agency protects the loan in case of foreclosure.

Home Equity Loan Modification 

Although the modification process is similar to home equity loans, lenders and creditors tend to be less lenient because these loans are considered extra debt. The reason is that a homeowner doesn't need a HELOC like one would need a standard mortgage. A creditor will seldom forgive the principal on a home equity loan.

Loan Modification Process 

It may depend on the creditor, but the loan modification process often follows five steps. 

‍

First, the borrower contacts the lender to discuss the possibility of modification and learn about the specific requirements. Second, the borrower submits a loan modification application. Third, the borrower provides all documentation requested by the lender. Fourth, the borrower and lender review and negotiate the terms and conditions. Fifth, the agreement is finalized, after which it will be implemented on the agreed-upon date.

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

Who Qualifies for a Loan Modification?

While lenders differ in qualifications for a mortgage modification, most require borrowers to have proof of financial hardship, that they are behind on payments, and that the loan is for a primary residence. Depending on the mortgage type, region, and creditor, more requirements may exist. Providing proof of income is also standard practice. Being current on mortgage payments, having a good credit score, and having a low DTI all help you get approved.

What Is the Cost of Mortgage Modification?

The cost of mortgage modification varies based on the lender and the terms of the modification. In general, there are no upfront fees. However, you may be required to pay some closing costs, such as an appraisal or origination fee. These fees are often rolled into the loan and added to the monthly payment. A monthly service fee may also be used to cover the costs of administering the modification program. 

‍

In some cases (e.g., government-sponsored mortgage modification programs), you can get a mortgage modification without paying any fees. 

How Do I Apply for Mortgage Modification?

To apply for a mortgage modification, contact the lender and request a modification application. The application will require your income, expenses, and other mortgage loan information. You must also provide documentation to support your application, such as your most recent pay stubs, bank statements, and tax returns.

‍

After completing the application and submitting the required documentation, the lender determines whether you qualify for a modification. If you are eligible, your lender will work with you to create a new payment plan. The new payment plan will be based on your current income and expenses.

What Are the Potential Risks of Mortgage Modification?

There are a number of disadvantages associated with mortgage modification, including the possibility that it could cost borrowers more to repay their loans. Other risks include the modification not being permanent, monthly payments remaining unaffordable, it can cause damage to your credit score, and you may have to pay extra fees to modify a loan.

‍

If you are considering a mortgage modification, it is essential to understand the risks involved. Be sure to talk to your lender about all the potential risks before deciding if a mortgage modification suits you.

Are There Alternatives to Mortgage Modification?

Yes, there are often several alternative options to choose from if mortgage modification is not an option. These alternatives include filing for bankruptcy, a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, forbearance, or a short sale. If you are considering an alternative to mortgage modification, talk to your lender about all your options. They can help you decide which option is best for you.

Conclusion

Mortgage modification is a complex and sometimes frustrating process. Alas, it can be a lifesaver for homeowners struggling to make payments. If you are considering a loan modification, be sure to research and understand your options. Many resources are available, and do not hesitate to explore your options. With careful planning and execution, mortgage modification can help you keep your home and avoid foreclosure.

‍

For more information or questions, contact a Wesley Mortgage representative today.

‍

Click Here To Connect With Wesley Mortgage Today And Begin Your Own Mortgage Journey

‍