While it is still too early to make any bold claims or big predictions, there is some indication that the housing and mortgage industries may be headed for a recovery. There are still many problems that need to be resolved and we aren’t out of the woods just yet, but some signs point towards reasons … Read more
Many people are aware of the big ticket items that can damage a credit score, but there are several little items that can drop a credit score quickly if not handled correctly. In efforts to protect credit scores, monitoring your credit report and being vigilant about these few spoilers can prevent you from suffering unnecessary … Read more
Just two short years after filing for bankruptcy, GM is reporting an annual profit for 2011. This is great news for the many employees and stockholders who rode out the storm when the company entered Chapter 11 in 2009. Post-Bankruptcy Bounce Back Gm reported an annual profit of $7.6 billion in 2011, up from only … Read more
Debt collectors are not known for their pleasant ways. Most border on the brink of harassment and threats. As a consumer it is our job to keep them honest when dealing with debt repayment issues. Besides getting out of debt we must also worry about handling the situation with grace and dignity. Know Your Rights … Read more
Many people enter bankruptcy not knowing what to expect. The process can be stressful enough for some people and failure to prepare can only make matters worse. Part of the process for preparing oneself for bankruptcy is understanding the process and holding realistic expectations. May Not Qualify Since important changes were made in 2005, bankruptcy … Read more
In today’s economy it can be tough enough to save for our retirement, let alone worry about resolving debts before we get there. However, carrying debt into retirement is likely to cause financial hardships within a few short years. Why? Most people live on fixed incomes in retirement, especially those who receive government assistance. The … Read more
After the announcement last week of the first ever joint state-federal mortgage settlement, some states have been given a larger share of the settlement. Out of the $25 billion settlement proposal states such as New York will stand to gain one of the largest percentages of the payout. Another Settlement Agreement New York Attorney General … Read more
The Federal Trade Commission has had its hands full over the last several years working to bump up consumer protection and investigate thousands of mortgage relief fraud claims. After much attention came to light of foreclosure alternative scams and fraudulent lending practices, the FTC has been busy resolving the issues that have surfaced. As a … Read more
No one wants to be in over their head in debt, but pursuing a structured debt settlement or filing for bankruptcy isn’t always the best idea. In fact, there are some situations in which certain debt resolution strategies may actually work against you. Before agreeing to a drastic debt reduction solution, evaluate whether your situation … Read more
With nearly one in four homes threatened by mortgage debt in the United States, one young boy took the threat of foreclosure head on. A 12 year old Wisconsin boy made national news this week when he raised enough money to prevent his grandmother’s home from being taken in foreclosure. Big Dreams Come True Noah … Read more