A federal report critical of a foreclosure prevention plan specifically mentions Florida. It says that Florida is failing to set measurable goals for its Hardest Hit program. In fact, Florida was one of 18 states and the District of Columbia that received money from the Hardest Hit Fund; which was first announced in Feb. 2010. The purpose of Florida’s Hardest Hit program is to create breathing room for homeowners looking for work or higher-paying jobs. Moreover, those who are eligible can receive up to a year of mortgage assistance with a cap of $24,000. And, up to $18,000 to bring a mortgage currently on payments. Homeowners seeking only to have their mortgage arrearage paid can get up to $25,000
Furthermore, through the end of June, 6, 320 Florida homeowners receive assistance with the state’s $1 billion shares of Hardest Hit money. About $107.8 million so far is for approved Florida homeowners. Nationwide, $350 million of the $7.6 billion, less than 5 percent, had been dispersed through March.
However, the report states that the Treasury has not set measurable goals and metrics that would allow the Treasury, the public, and Congress to measure the progress and success of the Hardest Hit Fund. Florida’s goals of preserving homeownership and protecting home values are singled out for having high-level expectations with no measurable target. The program received critique for ramping up too slowly and helping too few homeowners. Florida announced it was reworking its plan to eliminate eligibility roadblocks and increase the number of money homeowners receive.
If you have questions about foreclosure, loan modification, bankruptcy; or other alternatives, please feel free to call my office at 954-484-9987. Or, send an e-mail to emil@fleysherlaw.com, or complete the contact form below.
