Chang Carlin Legal Blog

A Local Warrenville Bankruptcy Attorney Can Save Your Assets with Loan Modification

Thursday, February 24, 2011

When filing for bankruptcy it makes a lot of sense to find a local attorney to work with you. A local Warrenville bankruptcy attorney has an understanding for your local area. Where are median home values right now? How likely is it that you would be able to find another job?

If you are someone who owns a home and a car, bankruptcy is a very scary thing. The damage to your credit report is unfortunate but the bigger concern is usually the loss of assets that are important to you.

If you contact a Warrenville attorney as soon as filing bankruptcy even crosses your mind, you may be able to save those assets.

One solution your Warrenville bankruptcy attorney may suggest is loan modification. Loan modification involves communication with your lender regarding your loan and what can be done to alter the terms of the loan so that you can avoid defaulting on the loan. A lender would much rather find a solution that keeps you making monthly payments rather than take back your home or car. They make more money if you successfully complete your loan.

You and your lender may agree on an altered interest rate or temporarily decreasing the monthly payment. Whatever you decide make sure it's something you can stick to.

Another potential solution could be debt settlement. If your loan amount is greater than $10,000 then you may qualify for debt settlement and may be able to negotiate your debts down to half of what you currently owe. Debt settlement requires you to make a lump sum payment to the lender. You may wonder why a lender would agree to this but they stand to lose more money if you default on the loan and stop paying. The best negotiations are handled by a debt settlement company. They charge a fee but can typically negotiate payments down farther then you would be able to.

Negotiations aren't limited to major lenders. Calling your credit card company can also be beneficial to your debts. You may be able to negotiate a lower interest rate or temporarily decrease the minimum payment.

Whatever negotiations you agree to, make sure you know what you are responsible for in the long term. Stalling payments in exchange for hefty fees may not be the best choice. Determine the best way to pay down your debt as quickly as possible. Prolonging payments does not really provide any benefit. Including your Warrenville bankruptcy attorney in all these agreements will help you ensure you are making good choices.

DISCLAIMER: All information on this website are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to be construed as legal advice. Chang & Carlin shall not be liable for any errors or inaccuracies contained herein, or any actions taken in reliance thereon.

1