How is this different from Citi’s announcement today?
This effort compliments efforts of those banks that have mortgage portfolios and can reach out directly to borrowers for loans they own and service. This is a significant announcement in that Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHFA have mutually agreed as major investors to a single streamlined modification program with a common affordability standard. The majority of HOPE NOW banks who own portfolio mortgages will adopt or offer programs as or more aggressive then what’s being announced. Q: What is the role of HOPE NOW? A: HOPE NOW has the leading servicers as members. HOPE NOW collaborated with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and FHFA on arriving at a standard that is consistent and addresses the capacity challenge for servicers dealing with increased delinquencies. This will take on-going work to implement for servicers. We anticipate this being implemented by December 15th. Q: Why is there not a foreclosure moratorium? A: Any borrower who qualifies and responds to the servicer will be given the o