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FHA Underwater Refinance

The FHA offered homeowners some good news by announcing the underwater refinance for borrowers that were unable to qualify for traditional refinancing because there home value had dropped below their mortgage balance. In years past, FHA loans were easier to qualify for because they allowed refinancing to 97% and the housing market was booming. In most cases people had earned more than enough equity in home appreciation before their home loan even closed. Times have changes as the housing crisis has spread like a wild fire across the nation.

Part of the American Dream is being able to purchase your own home. Finding a piece of property that allows you to accomplish the goals within your life has long been the desire of many individuals. Raising a family in a secure environment and maintaining equity in the property help create a comfortable life. Unfortunately, the mortgage crisis has hampered many people's ability to realize this reality. The good news is that the FHA short refinance program was recently been announced to provide help to those with an underwater mortgage. The underwater mortgage has become an obstacle for millions of homeowners. These FHA refinancing programs can prevent a family from losing their place of residence because of foreclosure. Many borrowers who once had plenty of equity, found themselves not meeting the requirements for the standard program for FHA mortgage refinancing, because property values had declined so drastically.

Underwater Refinance

The devastating effects of the banking crisis have greatly affected the middle class American family. Unfortunately, FHA mortgage rates have been rising as a result to many people finding that they owe more on their loan than the house is worth. To combat this occurrence, the Federal Housing Authority has enacted the Making Home Affordable program. This allows underwater refinancing for borrowers who have a mortgage balance that is greater than their home's value. It provides relief by reducing the obligation of the mortgage holder of up to 10 percent of the original principal amount. For those individuals that have already invested more than 15 percent of the value of the home in payments, this is a viable solution to ease the situation.

Underwater Refinancing with FHA Mortgage Relief

In order to be considered for the program, families need to be current with their mortgage payments. The good news is that no additional equity is needed to qualify. Speaking with an FHA lender will help the property owners fill out the paperwork for the application. With a credit rating of at least 500 and a good faith effort, this initiative can undo the effects of the banking crisis. One important thing to note is that only those households with sub-prime mortgages or other conventional home loans are qualified. For those people with FHA mortgages, another avenue will need to be considered to escape from being underwater.

Another factor to consider before applying for the underwater mortgage refinance program offered by the FHA is that the loan must have been initiated before September 2010. While the program does allow the homeowner to reduce their obligation, it can have an impact upon their credit rating. There may also be tax implications involved after the 10 percent of the loan has been forgiven. Consult with tax professionals and qualified FHA mortgage lenders before making any final decisions. With the right course of action, the threat of foreclosure can be a thing of the past.
Noteworthy FHA Mortgage Articles Federal Housing Administration News
  • Underwater Refinance with FHA  - Unfortunately a few years ago, millions of homeowners saw their home values tank. Many of these people were unable to seize the low rate opportunities because they did not meet the home equity requirements for refinance loans as most lenders tightened their guidelines.  
  • What is the FHA PowerSaver Loan?  Check out the government incentives for updating with solar energy efficiencies.
  • FHA Refinance Guidelines- Guidelines for the streamline and 203B program that enables people to get access to cash when refinancing their home.