State homeowners may be eligible for foreclosure review

Washington homeowners whose home was part of a foreclosure action between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010 may be eligible for an independent foreclosure review.

The reviews, recently announced by federal regulators, are required under a settlement reached between the nation’s largest mortgage servicers and the regulators.

Under the settlement, mortgage servicers were required to correct deficiencies in their servicing and foreclosure processes and to engage independent firms to conduct a multi-faceted independent review of foreclosure actions that occurred in 2009 and 2010.

Independent consultants are charged with evaluating whether borrowers suffered financial injury through errors, misrepresentations, or other deficiencies in foreclosure practices and determining appropriate remediation for those customers. Where a borrower suffered financial injury as a result of such practices, the consent orders require remediation to be provided.

How do I know if I am eligible for the Independent Foreclosure Review?
Your loan must first meet the following initial eligibility criteria:

• Your mortgage loan was serviced by one of the participating mortgage servicers listed below.
• Your mortgage loan was active in the foreclosure process between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010.
• The property was your primary residence.

If your mortgage loan does not meet the initial eligibility criteria outlined above, you can still have your mortgage concerns considered by calling or writing your servicer directly.

Customers eligible for a review will be mailed a letter that explains the process by December 31, 2011.

If you have questions you should call 1-888-952-9105 or visit the review website at www.independentforeclosurereview.com.