Administration Revamps HAMP to Reach More Borrowers

Jan 27 2012

The Obama administration has announced changes to its flagship foreclosure prevention initiative - the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) - which officials say will expand its reach to more distressed homeowners. Among the changes, borrowers who are struggling because of debt beyond their mortgage will be eligible for a secondary evaluation with more flexible debt-to-income criteria, and eligibility will be extended to investor-owned homes that are used as rental properties. The administration is also giving principal reductions a bigger role within the program.

Michigan, Ohio Lawmakers Propose Large-Scale Demolition

Jan 27 2012

With vacant and deteriorating properties taking a toll on communities throughout Ohio and Michigan, 16 congressmen from the two states are proposing large-scale demolition as a means of easing the burden of these problematic properties, and they've petitioned President Obama for federal funding. They say some homes in Ohio are selling for 8 percent of their appraised value as a result of neighboring vacancies, and they cite a demolition project in Flint, Michigan, that preserved $109 million in property values among the remaining inhabited homes.

Equator Promotes Two to Vice President Positions

Jan 26 2012

Default technology provider Equator has promoted Chris Michaels to VP of product development and Robert McKinley to VP of business development. Michaels has nine years of business analysis and product development experience. He will lead the team that provides business process solutions and system design for all Equator's clients. McKinley has led Equator's business development effort while working closely with new and existing customers. In his new role, he will continue to foster new business relationships.