Bank Of America Announces Agreements In Principle With Federal And State Authorities On Mortgage Matters

Bank of America Corporation today confirmed it has joined the other four largest mortgage servicers in agreeing in principle to the terms of a global settlement resolving federal and state investigations into certain origination, servicing and foreclosure practices. The settlement with 49 state attorneys general, the United States Department of Justice and other federal agencies would extend additional relief to homeowners who are struggling to make mortgage payments and to make refinancing options available to more homeowners.

Under the agreements in principle, Bank of America expects to develop new or enhanced programs to provide borrower assistance and refinancing assistance, to make direct payments to state and federal governments and borrower restitution, and to agree to national servicing standards. The agreements in principle are subject to ongoing discussions among the parties and completion and execution of definitive documentation, as well as required regulatory and court approvals.

The company would develop proprietary programs to provide expanded mortgage modification solutions, including broader use of principal reduction if permitted by the mortgage investor. Short sales would be further facilitated, and the company may offer additional assistance programs, for example deeds-in-lieu of foreclosure and funds for families transitioning out of homeownership. Programs for unemployed, military service members and other customers with identified special situations also may be enhanced. On mortgages that Bank of America owns, the company would expand refinancing opportunities or lower interest rates to provide reduced payments for many homeowners who are current on their payments but owe more than the current value of their homes.

Bank of America is finalizing its program enhancements and expects to provide additional details of eligibility requirements and implementation plans following finalization of the settlement terms.

Under an agreement in principle with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Bank of America also expects to resolve and otherwise limit its exposure for certain claims relating to the origination of FHA-insured mortgage loans, primarily by Countrywide prior to and for a period following Bank of America’s acquisition of that lender.