This article, originally published on CNN Money gives excellent insight on how and why so many homes in the US are currently “under water” with regard to the value vs the amount owed to the mortgage lender. Personally I believe that there is a direct relation between certain areas of the country being heavily concentrated with Neg-Amm Loans or Pay Option ARM’s as to why these areas also have such high amounts of distressed properties. Read more below . . .
1 in 4 mortgages ‘underwater’
Report shows 10.7 million borrowers are stuck with homes that are worth less than the mortgages they owe.
Protecting yourself from illicit foreclosure-rescue firms:
Beware of companies calling themselves “mortgage consultants,” or “foreclosure services” promising to save your credit or pay closing costs.
Don’t ignore mail from your lender; stay in touch even after a foreclosure notice has been filed. If you have a problem, try to negotiate a new loan arrangement with your lender before considering outside experts.
Never transfer your property deed or title to a rescue firm.
