Here in the whole San Diego and Riverside County loan modifications and avoid foreclosures and save your home are big.  This companies charge anywhere from 500 dollars to 2500.  There are others using Land Trust to protect the home from foreclosure and they charge the homeowner 1500 dollars per month claiming that the homeowner will get the house later.  So far, I do not know anybody that has her/his house back.  Nathan mentioned that you can not charge a fee to anybody in foreclosure but I have seen law firms doing the law modification as well as finding some error in the note just so the homeowner stays in the house several months without paying rent.  The inter-net is filled with web pages with lawyers trying to get people in foreclosure(Almost everyone looking for a loan modification is in default or foreclosure) to do loan modifications for them.

jose R

It is not a scam and they can collect a fee.  Federal law states that brokers and attorney's can collect fee's for a modification service.  The fee's that are charged are retainer fee's for the attorney.  I work for the feldman law center and we do loan modifications.  We have great success in helping people to be able to stay in their homes.  I agree that there are probably some shady characters out there that used to broker sub prime loans trying to do loan mod's, but they may not understand some of the consequences they may face if they use X Loan Officers to collect the fee's.  If an LO were to collect a fee for a loan mod and receive that check via US mail, then they would be guilty of mail fraud (a federal offense).  Uneducated sub prime brokers who got into the business to make an easy buck screwing people will be the first companies trying to do loan mod's that will get black listed by the lenders and will no longer be able to submit modification requests.  There are many people watching these guys and you can rest easy and know there are good companies out there that can really help people, it is very rewarding!!  Trust me : )

Hey Joe D:  Can you clarifythis statemet for me please?  "Federal law states that brokers and attorney's can collect fee's for a modification service."  I know attorney's are pretty much exempt from everything, but I wasn't aware that brokers could also.  Do you have a link to the federal law?

Joe D or anybody else outhere, can you please clarify why an LO would be guilty of "mail fraud (a federal offense)", if he/she were to collect a fee for a loan mod and receive a check via US mail?

Nathan,

To clarify the "Foreclosure Consultants Act", it is a violation in CA to accept money for services related to assisting someone with a foreclosure resolution prior to results, but it is ok for a broker to assist in finding a foreclosure resolution and be compensated at resolution? and if so, is it ok to have an agreement signed by that person being assisted outlining the amount of the fee that will be paid?  Last question, can the fee be charged in-full or partially, whether or not the resolution is to the liking of that person assisted?

Gilbert

Clients can do this for free, BUT remember...the bank wants the most they can get. Even if THEY were the ones who paid the broker the ysp to make YOUR rate higher!

So negotiating with them isn't easy. 

The bank will only modify clients that fit into a certain box, a client calling on their own without knowing the 'right thing to say' can ruin their chances of getting "modified."

Having a professional with experience on what to say and how to say it, will GREATLY strengthen your chances of modifying your loan saving you anywhere from 30-40% of your Loan Balance (which is savings of well over what the normal fee of about $3k).

A law firm calle dme about a week with the whole loan modification thing. They are charging $1750. I haven't ok'd it because I do not have the money as of yet. However, has anyone heard of thelawyersagency.com? Are they a legit company or scammers? They are located in California, and somehow the name "Kirkland Holding LTD" associated with them. Anyone know anything?

Thank you so much!

I am very happy to have stumbled across this site and into this thread. I work for a "loan modification" company. We have a team of 3 attorney's who are on top of theyre stuff. $15k is the most outrageous thing I have ever heard!!! Send me an email and I will get you in touch with the attorney's .

Sorry...email is notemods@yahoo.com

has anyone ever heard of FEDERAL LOAN MODIFICATION? they are based in los angeles .. they wanted 3k to do a loan mod. when talking to them on the phone . they make me seem more like a pest, than they are helping me, and im getting a bad feeling about them .. just wondered if anyone actually has had any success with this company its partnered with mgo capital .. which from there website they seem kinda like they want to aquire distressed property. i could be wrong and i hope i am , but i don t feel strong about this company

does anyone do michigan mortgage mod/loss mitigation that is legit?  Currently, foreclosed, redemption up, still in home, filed ch. 7, waiting on discharge?

Im dealing with Federal Loan Modification right now and found found out they failed their first attempt taking them 60 days...  After contacting them they said they will try it again.   I will hear more on monday...    If monday doesnt seem like they got too far i will go with a attorney.      Only thing with a attorney they want their money upfront...   

Wayne

good luck wayne ..so they do try at least?  i just feel like they are not what they claim to be.. please let me know what you find out.

A lawyer teamed up with my mortgage broker and wants me to pay a non-refundable fee of $699 plus 1% of my principal balance which turns out to be $6366 to do a loan modification.  Anyone have any good advise or know of a better route to go?

My current mortgage is with WAMU, and I'm giving them a call tomorrow.  Maybe I can get this done myself.

Thanks!

I was suppose to get a call back as she promised yesterday.  I did not!   Stay away from Federal Loan Mod.   They took 1500.00 from me and havent done a thing.   I will report the to the State of CA Real Estate.  Do not give money up front for a loan mod unless you are dealing with a Law Firm.   They are the only ones that can do this, not a broker backed with attorneys.   They are not a law firm.   If you are willing to pay 3000-3500 get a lawyer to do this.   They have better leverage than a broker because they know the laws.

I will demand my money back and tell them i will report them.  Good luck to everybody.     I think im going with Feldman Law Center.   I looked the Attorney up in their STATE BAR ASSOCIATION.   It will tell you if the lawyer is currently active and any bad records on his file.   The lawyer i have is out of CA.  I googled CA. STATE BAR...

Hope this helps!   My loan changes in November.   I was screwed 2 yrs ago my crooks and didnt tell the truth about my interest rate..  It was too late!   I signed the papers!   

Email me at insanew70@yahoo.com  

Like to hear from others.   And No!  I dont work for Feldman Law Firm, im a regular guy with a handicap child.

Wayne

One more thing!   Goto Ripoff Report or BBB..  Google it! 

See if the Company or law firm u are using is on it.  

Wayne

good for you wayne i thought i read somewhere where they cant take money just on the premise of doing a loan modification , its some kinda FEDERAL OFFENSE (how fitting) they tell me they are working with the bank....yeah i was suppose to hear from them back within 24-48hrs...(whatever)i need to figure something out cause my loan company isnt helping either ,, they're just waiting to take over ,, doesnt seem like they want to help to me, not when they say sorry theres nothing we can do..  

WellI really cant slam Federal loan mod...   I asked for my money back and i recieved it 2 days later by fedex after i told them i would report them to the state of CA. Real estate....  after that the did to a modification of some sort, approved by countrywide..   But really i or anyone else could of did this by putting late fees and late payment at the end of your loan and i still have adjustable rate that will change in Nov.  Turn the mod papers of approval to my lawyer.  He is currently working on my mod loan out of CA.   I am from IL.

If you want big results such as lowering rates on your loan and maybe even your principle.  Then get a lawyer.  I paid 3500.00 for mine.  I know!  Alot of money, but you get what u pay for.   Just do some research before doing anything...    Like i said above... 

Good luck!

Each state has authority to regulate the foreclosure process.  It is these laws that typically come into play with loan modification services.  california for example prohibits the collecting of money from a homeowner in foreclosure for services relating to the foreclosure unless the company is a law firm or bonded broker from the state.  Cal. Civ. Code 2945 et. seq.

how can you find out which loan modification companies ARE legit and which ones are not?

looking for a loan modification-Anyone heard of Providers Mortgage? I've looked up this company under BBB and State of California website and it does exist BUT im working with the smaller company under this company by the name of Better LIfe, inc and cannot find info under this name-should this worry me? they want money upfront for the loan modification does this sound right?

Mirna,

No its illegal unless they are attorney's.  They can collect their retainer. (money upfront)

thanks Wayne, I emailed the "owner" of this company who is not an attorney but says that the attorneys they work with are the negotiators but I dont actually have any names to these attorneys. Its kind of like this Better Life, inc are the brokers for these attorneys, so I guess thats why they are requesting $3495.00. I've emailed Nathan Fransen himself asking him to review the contract/agreement papers they faxed me, I'll pay a consult fee for his time to review the agreement but Im waiting for his response--sounds legit but want to make sure

thanks for your input

Mirna

Exacttly what Nathan said..  If u cant speak to a attorney then i wouldnt go with them...    Alot of them usethe work Attorney but arent even under the same roof..  They farm them out....     Just go with a law firm and in your state google the bar association for your state and u can look up your attorney and see if he is for real or has any bad reports on him...   

Good luck

Beware of Home Owners Assistance Inc. they claim they will modify your loan and do nothing they charge $1795.00 up front. but all the are interested in doing is short selling your home. How convinient they make money twice UP FRONT and when they sell the house. I paid them based on their promise  and sadly they did nothing I lost my home to foreclosure. I demanded my money back and have yet to hear from them. The broker is the owner's wife so it's all a perfect scam, They take advantage of desperate people who are terrified of losing their homes and do nothing to help you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

marie thats exactly how i feel with this federal loan modification co. like its some outfit run out of a house or something.. they keep telling me not to pay my mortgage , dont let the mortgage co scare you , theyarent going to help you , we are,, but the only true  figures i've gotten out of them is what they want me to pay them.. im so affraid that if i dont pay my mortgage and i give them the money ... I AM  truely going to lose my home. they tell me i have a bad loan,., which is true , but i dont feel comfortable about them . the two people i deal with thru them dont even seem to be on the same page,i told her that my mortgage co says i have to still make my payments even tho im trying to get a modification,,, faxed me over somepaperwork to sign, and about a week later i get a call from FLM the guy that i initially started talking to with them and he says dont send them any money, i told him, i told your partner the deal with the mortgage co and she said... ok i just dont feel good about them .. any thoughts on this Nathan ? or anybody?

I got my money back from them.  The process took too long..    3 months...  Red flag...

They us to collect money up front until they had to deal with me.  I would get a attorney...  Thats me!

yeah they tell me ahh your fine till oct theyre records show you last paid in june , we ll have this cleared up for you within the next 30-60 days, i sent my mortgage co the money .. buy myself more time that way ,

Kaje, dont go with them, follow your gut instinct!!!! there are more companies out there!! make your mortgage payment, Im not an expert but if you keep up with your mortgage payments at least you still have your good standing credit with your mortgage and you can work with that BUT once you make late payments you cannot really come back from that, better to  be safe that sorry!! those are my thoughts, am I right Nathan? Another thing is that Im currently doing a loan mod through a company AND i've hired Nathan to review their contract for me to make sure Im doing the right thing; It wouldnt hurt to pay a little more to an attorney to review that company attorneys contract to assure this isnt a scam. Cover all your bases,

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR THOUGHTS AND ADVISE !! i appreciate it really i do..i am behind on my mortgage but they put two payments at the end of the loan for me,and im paying them a payment this week and im just going to continue to have them try and work with me til i can in fact talk to an attrny....im welcome to any suggestions on a good qualified atty if anyone recomends some to me !! 

i also want to note that they are partnered or under the sleeve of a company called MGO capital which one of the thongs they do according to their web site is this which makes me feel like they might be trying to take my home from me for their own gain

It's Time to Act on a Great Opportunity!

If you are an investor interested in profiting from the falling real estate market through deeply discounted foreclosures and commercial and residential performing notes, but do not have the time, specific contacts or knowledge, or the funds to handle the transactions from A to Z, MGO Capital has an opportunity that may be of interest you. MGO Capital has the knowledge, resources, contacts, and strategy to purchase residential and bank owned REO (Real Estate Owned) packages, as well as commercial and residential performing notes, and then resell them at significant annual returns.

MGO Capital is confident that the next two years will present many opportunities for investors of all kinds to participate in Bank REO transactions, as well as commercial and residential performing notes and reap the benefits that are generally reserved for the extremely wealthy. This opportunity is not just for the Major Players, as we have created a very simple strategy that gives everyone the opportunity to participate. Collectively, we can do what the larger institutions and the extremely wealthy are already doing. By creating a team, our combined buying power and negotiating capabilities give us leverage to compete with the Major Players. The cycle which we are currently experiencing has happened before, resulting in the birth of multi-millionaires. In fact, the projections for the current cycle are off the charts. Join us now while the timing is perfect to take advantage of the opportunities the current cycle is offering.

Well I've been considering Fewldman Law Canter and looking on the internet they have a BIG marketing effort with Blogs, Go Articales, Ezine artivlaes, etc. all written by someone working for them, this makes me nervous.  I will try to contact Wayne by e-mail to see how he is doing.  I am trying to save my home by starting an internet business, if you have time visit:

http://www.gworks.ws

This is not a promotion but an attempt to survive!  I also may call Nathan above to compare woith Feldman anyone else with specific contact and results from either law officew please post here, thanks.

Nathan

your companies website states no refferal fees to brokers.

I know alot of people that need help with this and I like to work with a reputable firm to make sure they are taken care of properly , at the same time generate a small income doing it.

If brokers can not collect refferal fee, can an individual get a refferal fee.

I agree Nathan...    I was gonna be charged $3000 for loan mod company.  Why not for 500 dollare more get a law firm?  

The last time i visited this website I was in the midst of hiring a loan mod.company (you can see my scenario on 8/27/08) but was unsure about the company. Their contract was very "generic", just didnt seem right but they ARE a LEGIT company I must say. I hired Nathan to review the the companys contract for me and he pointed out several and same things I thought that werent exactly in my best interest. Long story made short, I dropped that company (I had not paid yet) and hired Nathan (for less money I must say). After reading his contract/agreement I KNEW I had made the right decision; it was so clear as to what I was hiring him for and I felt that it was written as to protect me, the client, as equally as the firm. So far I've spoken to him directly and he gets back to me pretty quickly,  I dont feel ingnored or that Im "just"one more case of many many more. This is my true experience, I have no affiliation with his firm (other than being a client), and can only say to anyone out there reading, an attorney is the way to go! you have one shot, do it as right as possible and an attorney would know best. --Mirna

Hi Thomas, how can I get a hold of this list--I have a few friends interested in what I am currently doing (loan Mod) and even though I will refer them to Nathan, I want to have a list of options-thanks Mirna

Has anyone ever hired an attorney from loansafe.org?

Just got a call and they just got the loan docs from Countrywide and they are gonna start dealing with them next week.   Feldman law Center i am happy with.   Communucation is alot better than The federal loan mod company.  They never called!   I say go with a attonery and make sure they are on the bar assoication and have a clean record.   I am a funeral director and i have a license to practice in IL.    Anyone can call the funeral directors assoication and look my name up and see if i have any suspensions on my record. Or if i am active!   Same goes for a attorney or doctor.    I did my homework this time.   I didnt the first!   Got my $1500 back in 3 days after Feldman told me what to say to them.    Right there made me feel i have someone on my side.   Use a Attorney!  I dont work for Feldman Law Center.  I am a client!

Why not have someone that knows your legal rights on your side...  Glad i did!

Good luck !

Great Blog!   Please dont get taken for your hard earn money...

please tellme if you know about the company NBH & associates, today I signed a contract to loan modification, they look's serios persons, they have on office and also they gave me a copy of the contract on spanish my prymari lenguage.  Can you please tellme about a real estate attorney in my area? I live in North Hollywood, LA.  Thankyou, !!I have 3 days to cancel the contract  today it's 10/05/08

In California there are laws prohibiting fees being charged to those in foreclosure (Foreclosure Consultants Act, CCP Sect. 2945). 

Just spoke with an old client and she told me an unscrupoulous broker/agent just charged her $5,000- to talk with her bank.

Told her to contact DRE.

Have you heard of the Feldman law group. How can one check up on a company. 3500 is there price........Regards Dave

There is such thing as a 'Short Refi' it isn't a scam.. I have been in the retail and wholesale mortgage industry for over 15 years.  I personally just did a short refi through Countrywie for family friends as well as I was an Area Sales Manager for CW... I do agree, that these so called professionals are preying on desperation! It's really sad.. In fact, there are even companies saying that they are attorney's doing the loan mods and are in fact merly just associated with an attorney but the attorneys are not even doing the job- this is just so the company can charge more. Just happened to a good friend of mine!

I however, do loan mods myself and take pride in my work an more so enjoy the happiness that I bring people when they are not displaced from their home.

The scums always come out when there is money to be made.. Unfortunelty!

Shea Jandt

Hello and thanks for the site.  I have looked at a few Loan modification companies and found that the fees differ. I am located in Corona Ca which is why I am writing to you. So of the companies were located out of state and some in state.  A company " The Firm" and "Oceanview Investments "has offered to do a loan for me, 1st of 390K and 2nd of 49K with the Citimortgage. I have an investment home in South Carolina also with a 1st of 98K and 2nd of 23K . Oceanview offered to negotiate all for $2400 while "The Firm offered to do all for $6400. I have also contact other companies that state that similar prices inbetween. Need to make decision.

I have been working with Veritus Financial for 3 months.   They are located in San Diego.  Has anybody heard of them?  They said they have been doing this for 3 years.  After I gave them my fee of 3995 and 3 month past, I find out they have not been doing loan modifications and they are a mortgage company under a broker.  I am very frustrated by their lack of communication and promises.  DO NOT go with this company!!  another note they said they work with an attorney, no attorney info are on any paperwork.  I hope others will look for attorney info prior to giving companies their money.   ps they will not refund!!

One can go to www.calbar.ca.gov to check-out law firms working in CA verify there legitimacy.

Danville LO

Please can anyone here name at least THREE loan modification attorneys that can be trusted?

Thanks!

what kind of licence does a loan mod firm hold if any how do i know if they are legal

Help I am looking for a lawyer to represent me.  I don't know where to turn. I foun the Feldman Law center online and many people on here have worked with them.  If anyone has had good results with them please let me know. I found this website and I feel like it is scammy. http://www.mortd.com/index.php please look at it.  It is the feldman law canter calling out to morgage brokers to find them clients in exchange for commision.  Are they good?  Please let me know.

Interesting

First off, I am not a loan broker or an attorney, but I find it interesting and amusing how an attorney starts this post and says people who do loan mods that were previously mortgage professionals should not be doing mods. Then he proceeds to say "At the risk of sounding like a protectionist, isn't this something that should be done by a lawyer?".

I mean, give me a break. Who is the opportunist? What makes an attorney qualified to modify a loan? Seriously. When did attorneys learn to modify loans and is it attorneys who actually get on the phone or is it their paralegals?

I just think that it is funny for an attorney to call a mortgage broker opportunistic, kinda like the pot calling the kettle black. Let's be honest folks, attorneys do not exactly have the best reputation either. Most good loan brokers can run circles around an attorney in the mortgage arena. People seem to think that just because some is an attorney, "Oooooooooh, that makes them qualified"....

I am sorry, but I am just not buying it. Most of the modification companies have no clue as to what they are doing, they are a joke. But I have heard the same about attorneys doing modifications.

My son just did a loan modification with Wells Fargo.  It took almost three months, with no mortgage payment due and he went from $1587 (arm) was $1242 before the higher interest came.  We just got the papers via DHL sent to his home and now his loan is $868.33 for two years only.  I guess he will try to refinance after two years and hopefully will not be late on a single payment.  I must say, it saved his home.

My Mod is done finally with Feldman Law center...     Sent the papers out today...

Have been contacted by Kirkland Holdings for loan modificationa and will be sending them a retainer fee on 11/24/08 and wondering if this is a scam sure makes me wonder after reading all that has been posted

I have closed about 6 transactions since November last year via Short-Refinance, but I don't know why someone would charge any money upfront since the earnings come from the origination of the New loan, they are a pain in the neck but is a great feeling getting paid when you were able to give a new Loan for the Fair Market Value of the property and have the old bank forgive THOUSANDS of dollars.

If someone who is not an attorney charges you upfront for a loan mod, first of all is illegal as far as I am concern and secondly most be a scam. The only time someone should pay upfront is if they are going to be working with an attorney and always obtain references from previous recent clients.

Does anybody know of any Wholesale lender that is offering the new HOPE (FHA) program, that will be perfect to work oin this short refinances.

Good luck to you all!!

Just spoke to Callie (Keep Your Property, Inc.) after reading her post where her company offers money back guarantee, I will investigate further and see the papers before signing anything. Will keep you all posted.

Has anyone considered that it is illegal for an

attorney to pay a non attorney fees for soliciting

business?   This is called Capping.  Its where the

term Ambulance Chaser came from.   Are there

any  loan modification company structure's that

avoid this law legally?

Sorry, it was my first blog attempt.  My name is David.

Thank you.

Does anyone know if a licensed California Finance Lender (CFL) under the Department of Corporations (company or individual) is legally able to collect fees up front for loan modification services?  They are bonded and they can act as a mortgage broker in the state of California, so I am assuming that this is legal, but I'm not certain.  I assist many companies in obtaining both DRE and CFL Licenses and we have been getting a lot of inquiries on the loan modications, so we are doing are best to provide people with correct information.

Thank you,

Mike Crouse

www.cfllicense.com

Words from an Opinionated California Lawyer

In California, the Department of Real Estate website (www.dre.ca.gov) lists the companies that have DRE "permission" to modify loans... add to this list any licensed California attorney, and that is where you should begin your due diligence when you seek help in California. Other states probably have similar laws, so check with your own state DRE.

My law firm has been getting more and more calls recently from homeowners that were victims of predatory lenders who put them into an unaffordable loan and now fell into the hands of those same people who sold the toxic loans but profess to be saviors... DON'T BE A VICTIM TWICE!

Do your homework and THOROUGHLY investigate any firm before hiring them to save your biggest asset and the place you call "home." These scammers are popping up like dandelions on a freshly mowed lawn. They advertise on the Internet, freeway billboards, radio, television, and print media everywhere. Make no mistake, in many cases, these are the exact same loan officers and mortgage brokers who fleeced homeowners the first time around. After losing their jobs with the crash of the mortgage industry, they have found a new way to make ill-gotten profits from hard-working homeowners through loan modifications.

In California, with very few exceptions (and attorneys are one exception), it is against the law for anyone to take money up front for helping a homeowner who is in default. Don't trust a company that begins its relationship with you by breaking the law.

Of course, this is one lawyer's biased opinion, but one based on many distressing calls to my office every day. And, yes, my firm does take cases against loan modification companies who have violated laws. This field is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing sections for our mortgage law firm.

- Paul J. Molinaro, Esq.

I was just on the phone with federal loan modification. I was told they are a law firm. the charge is 3495 and is apparently 100% refundable if I don't get a loan modification. I tried the bank on my own and didn't get toofar. I owe 835K in a house that is now appraised at 500K. I am not behind and have good income and credit. FLM told me that they can work with the bank and lower the amount of the mortgage to get it close to fair market value. Any advise? is this doable?

QUESTION:

I work for a Broker in California.  We have turned our sail towards the Loan Mod. Arena, (recently).

The market appears to be in our line of work as Lic. R.E. Associates.

I/we have loyal clients that are requesting our help in modifing their loans.

They do not seem to have an issue with paying a reasonable LOW fee for Modifing their loan.

Should we assist them for free/AT NO CHARGE?

The company I represent is in good standing with Ca. Bond Broker Ethics and lending guidelines.

Should we refer our clients to a Local Law Firm?

In reading the above, I have my concerns...

We have NO control over SCAM ARTIST.

We Pledge our Services in Good Faith.  We our an 40 year old Bonded Broker R.E. Company.

We are in the business of helping the R.E. customer/client.

Should we continue to focus only on our Listing/Buyer/refi market?

I WILL and CAN suggest to our Broker to shut down our RECENT loan mod dept. if necessary, until the market is certified towards Credentialed Professionals.

We DO have an experienced paralegal on our staff.  She has many years of B.K., Loan Mod. and Foreclosure experience.  She prepares and provides the basic documentation-process to the client in a reasonable and timely manner.  We/she assess, listen, prepare, and make lender contact on behalf of the client. We proceed to recommend only the best possible loan program for the client. If we do not save, reduce, and help the client in a strong benenifcial manner, then we do not charge for our service. This has been our pledge thus far. Is this practice unethical?  Or, is it illegal to practice as a License Agent Counseling in good faith/working with a Broker/Bond Certified in Ca.?

Please Advise.

The goal is to remain an agent for life in good standing with the Law.

Thank you.

Federal Loan Modification at www.fedmod.com clams to be a law firm.  I'm not sure if that's true, and they want about 3400.00 to do a modification.  I'm very wary at this point after being burned on my mortgage, so any input would be greatly appreciated. I've had two phone conversations thus far with a representative, and I don't have a good feeling in my gut.  It was too much like a pressure sale for me, and too little information provided on what they actually do.

I believe there are nonprofit companies all over the country who offer consulting services for free under various government programs.  I think you can find a list of them on the HUD or FHA websites.  From what I've been told, they are licensed and will consul people in mortgage trouble at no charge.

Wow, not feeling too well after reading this. I use to be a Senior Loan Officer lost my 2 houses, vehicle, and savings after the market crashed. I had retail management experience but due to the economic melt down I could not find work for months. I heard of Loan Mods, and not even 10 minutes after I submitted my resume; I was called, interviewed, and hired the next day. I guess it was too good to be true. Maybe I'm working for some unethical scam artist, had a weird feeling about their business practices. That's what brought me here. I should just quit and put a bullet in my head, I'm a loser.

Stay away from Feldman Law Center.

It is possible that a some people got lucky allowing Feldman law Center to do their loan mod, but that does not prove much.  There are people who have been ripped off by Feldman Law Center.

Anyone who has been ripped-off by Feldman law Center should file a complaint with all the aproprate government offices.   

Yeah, these attorneys get to charge  up-front, so they have no incentive to get the work done. They can just keep collecting money from people who are fearful of losing their homes.

This is a sweet deal for a lawyer.  Wow, they are raking in the dough.

Can someone tell me anything about The Rodis Law Group? 

I have three loans totaling $750,000 ($500,000 with Countrywide, 2nd $50,000 with First Tennessee, and $200,000 3rd with Wells Fargo)  Don't ask me why they gave me three loans.  My home is now worth about $570,000.  I filed for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy last year and received a discharge in April which included all three loans.  I am living in the house with my family and making payments.  The rates are low now but are going to skyrocket if the ecomomy improves and interest rates go up.

Rodis is a law firm with no complaints on record that I could find.  They claimed that they could most likely get the second and third mortgage almost totally eliminated and the first mortgage locked in at current rates for 30 to 40 years.  They did not promise anything but was $2,500 per loan to do the work.  If they can actually do what they say it would be well worth it but I just don't know what to do.

Thanks,

Mark

I have payed Feldman Law Center - and I am now more scared than I was before. What did they do to scam anyone that knows?? I thought I had done my homework - guess not good enough. If anyone has any specifics of what they do, I would love to know, so maybe I can fix this. Thanks.

I had Rodis Law Group work on my case and they did a terrific job. The initial response from my lender was not feasable for me, and they went back to renegotiate even more. They were able to wipe out my second and cut my 1st from $2,560 per month to $1,484.

Just a few words of wisdom.  CHECK OUT THE COMPANY YOU ARE THINKING ABOUT WORKING WITH IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE.  Check the BBB, search the online news paper for the city they are based in, google search their name, etc....

Paying for a service up front doesn't necessarily make it a scam, it just means that you are sticking your neck out a little bit farther.  These companies do have costs they have to cover, but DO YOUR HOMEWORK.  You don't necessarily want to work with someone who has a guarantee if they refund money to half the people that hire them.  A lot of those companies are all about volume.  They are probably going to take the banks first offer in order to get paid.   It most certainly is possible to do this yourself, but truthfully, do you really know the proper debt-to-income ratio's that a particular bank is looking for? Do you want to risk the next three months waiting for a phone call to not get the best deal you can? Just give it some thought.  There are some very good free programs out there, except they are absolutely swamped with calls. Can you wait for a call back? 

Bottom line - There are shady people and companies doing business in every niche of every market, be smart do your homework, do it yourself if you have the time and desire, or hire someone.  Quite a few attornies have absolutely no clue what they are doing and hopped on the band wagon like everyone else. 

Best of luck..

I have read so of the post about the feldman Law Center and they are just not true. It seems this may be a bashing forum for some jelous competitors of Feldman. The feldman Law center has done 2 loan modifications for me as well as several others from friends I have reffered. I met with Mr. Feldman personally and he is more than genuine, The have a big beautiful office in Mission Viejo and his staff is more than helpful. Feldman saved my home from foreclosure and got us out of a nasty WAMU loan. Our interest rate is fixed at 3.129% for 5 years then 4.129% for 1 year then 5.129% for 34 years. My loan amount is $845,000 and my property is worth 1 million. I would highly recoment this firm as I have. Mr. Feldman has been around for 30 years and my friends I have reffered were extreemly happy with their results as well.

Does anyone know anything about Rodis Law Group.

I hired them in dec of 2007.  same as the man above about $2000 per loan and I have three of them.  I already gave them half the money.  I have not heard much from them.

I would love to hear something about them.

Thanks

Darlene

I hired Rodis Law Group a few months ago and they just finished my modification.  They had to go back and forth with the bank many times because the bank was not giving me what they felt I deserve.  I was able to have my 2nd completely wiped clear with just a $1000 settlement!  That saved me over $150,000! 

Highly recommend this law firm.

Marie, I saw your comment from earlier today regarding Rodis Law Group.  Did you hire them only to do a loan mod or was your house in foreclose & they saved it from that also? 

I have been going back and forth with mortgage company for months, the loan mod dept has had my paperwork for 4 weeks now, suit has been filed in my local court and am getting nowhere.  Our house is now in foreclosure (no sale date yet but I've read enough to know that it is coming very soon) because I listened to the advice of the mortgage company.  I feel that the only way that we are going to be able to save our home is to hire an attorney/firm. 

After all the bad information that I have rec'd I am hestitant to give anyone money that are assuring me that they can fix this awful situation I have found ourselves in.  When talking to Rodis Law Firm today they "seemed" like the answer; however, I am very, very reluctant.  If I make a wrong choice now we will lose our home in very short order.

Does anyone have any more information or insight about Rodis Law Firm?  Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Rick,

You are correct about the lawyers.  Lawyers are excempt from certain rules that apply to brokers, this is why they can get away with scamming consumers. 

Also, for the person who workes for Feldman Law Center, the owner/lawyer of this company is no different than any other unethical company.  They tell lies to get your money. They may have some success, but they don't mention their failures and the problems they have with getting caught in lies.

Feldman law Center aparently has made some enemies on this site because they tell it like it is. Mr. Feldman is known nationally and has a great reputation. The Feldman Law center has a large profesional operation in Orange County. I have been there on several ocasions and reffered many friends to Mr. Feldman. As he has not been able to help all of them  but the friends of mine he has taken on as clients are extreemly pleased with the outcome. Just call 800-547-8214 and ask for Mr. Feldman or speak to his legal assistant and see for yourself. He's very pleasant and extreemly knowledgable.

Does anyone else have a positive experience from Rodis Law Group?  I'm in Sacramento and heard a radio ad today and am ready to call them.  My wife and I tried to deal with our lender directly Countrywide/BofA back in the fall but they told us to pound sand and so we are looking for someone with more teeth to help get our principal balance reduced.  I've already done a RipOffreport.com search and BBB search and have found nothing negative.  Thank you.

Has anyone heard of Rodis Law Group Inc? I have sent in asked payment in December but I have not either heard from them nor have they contacted my morgage company. I signed a contract and they deducted the payment. when i call them they say to wait and be patient but i fear that they just want my house to go into shortsale mode so that they can profit from my misfortune. If there is anyone out there experiencing the same problem let me know. Thank you and have a wonderful day.

I would really appreciate any / all responses on Rodis Law Group.  Positive - Negative.  I can't seem to get a handle on the firm.  I did give them a deposit today and need to return paperwork in the morning,.,,but I cannot find much information on their success and/or failures.  Any law firm can advertise and we as individuals buy into the illusion that they create with the hope that somehow they can save our house, our homes...we trust that they follow through on what they give the impression that they can do,  But as they say "no guarantees"  I need someone in my corner that will fight for me, for my family, for our home.  Any feedback?  Anyone? 

Wow, what a response to this topic.  I am writing on this topic as well as on the mortgage industry, the economy attempting to expose the truth.  I will not advertise my sites unless asked via email.  I can be reached at larubi@rubinoff.us (this is my personal email not the email associated with any of my sites).

I am a former mortgage broker, I say former as our industry was virtuallyl wiped out as was my market.  I have been in real estate and finance for almost 40 years so I think I have learned something over that period of time.  (kinda sound like a parent).

Addressing the topic of loan modifications one very important point has been overlooked.  The point being that many lenders are not willing to do them.  Refer to a case in NH where Countrywide's attorneys admitted in court that all of theri promotion of loan modifications are "mere commercial puffery" and that they had no obligation to modify nor do they have intentions on doing so. 

This is not to say that some mods are not taking place, they are.  Some are taking place when someone in foreclosure defends and fights a foreclosure on the basis of "standing", standing being havieng the legal right to act as plaintiff.  I am not a lawyer but know this is a major issue and one lenders and the so called "foreclosure mill" attorneys don't want you to know.  Many foreclosure cases have been dismissed on this issues.  Federal Judge Boyko in Ohio - one of the most notable judges on this topic - dismissed 26 foreclosure cases in one day.  When the "so called" lender (you are NEVER dealing with you actual lender, just a service company which is basically the equivilent of a collection agent) feels they will lose their foreclosure case they tend to offer a modification.  This is true of Option One loans.  I say this is true as I know of 2 that occured recently just for this reason.

I also hear from many people as to their experiences with modifications - the months it takes, the lack of cooperaiton, the run arounds, etc.  To this end, I conclude that "most" modifications do not materiialize ("most" is based on opinion not on fact).  Aslo, there are published government statistices tha 53% of modifications go back into foreclosure.

So the real question is, what is the actual success ratio of firms providing fee paid or non fee paid services?  I ask of the physician now attorney, if you had a patient that needed extreme surgery with only a 10% chanc4 of success, would you advise them to do it?

The next question that needs to be addressed is how can there be so many "loan modification" experts out there all of a sudden?  Where did they come from and how did they gain their experience?  This includes attorneys as well.  You see, I did loan modifications over 20 years ago - for reasons not much different then today - but still with the same purpose of making a loan work "win win" for both the borrower and the lender (in those days the lender actually ownned the loan).  In fact, one of my first clients was an attorney. 

Yet the real question remains, the willingness of the servicing companies to cooperate.  Legislation is pending for BK judges to have the authority to "force" modifications and is likey to be passed.  Why would we need federal legislation to "forece" so called lenders into this action if were a;ready being done voluntarily in mass to help partially solve this economic crisis?

My effort is to educate people on how to fight and defend a foreclosure and to hire an experienced attorney to do so but if one cannot afford an attorney then to educate them on how to do so Pro Se - representing oneself.  However, based on the loan mod fees I see mentioned in this post and the moneies paid out by some, they COULD afford to pay an attorney.

Defending a foreclosure does not necessarily mean you will beat it but it certainly can prolong the final event.  A case in Ohio is now going on for 11 years, a case in Florida 5 years, another case in Ohio 4 years.  During this period the defendants (the borrowers) are not making mortgage payments.  By doing so, as I mentioned above, "lenders" would be more apt to modify loans on terms that people could live with.  It also begins to help the economy by having homes occupied and maintained, lowering the available inventory, stabalizing values and maintaining the integrity of neighborhoods.

The to investor, those who actually own your loans and were victims of the Wall Street securitization fraud, would actually recover something rather then nothing.  By the way, there are several securities investors law suits against servicers to prevent blanket loan modivications on the grounds that they (servicers) do not have the right to modify terms on what the investor owns without their permission and blessing.  If one of these cases are ruled in favor of the investor the entire loan modification business would halt.

Sorry fo rthe length of this comment, there is sooooo much to tell about this topic and foreclosures.

Larry Rubinoff (Active Rain member but not very active here due to time constraints).

Being a consumer advocate, spending most of my day dong research, I find that

I am not sure how this happend but the last line in my comment above "Being a consumer advocate...did not complete. ????

What I was saying: 

Being a consumer advocate, spending most of my day on research, I find, as we see here, that many loan modifications don't work.  I say many not based on actual statistics but by information gained in research.  Of course you will see and hear more negative stories then you will hear success stories. 

Then I go on to say above:

"So the real question is........."

Sorry for this error.  I really don't know how it happened.  

RE: RODIS LAW GROUP

We also saw 'RODIS LAW GROUPS' advertisement.  We decided to call them.  We felt very good about them as they were VERY clear on what they do for you

Only thing we didn't like was that they charge 6500.00 which you must pay within 60 days in 3 installments.  This seems 'steep' considering most people needing to do 'loan modifications' are strapped for cash just trying to pay their existing mortgages!  I think this company needs to allow lower payments or offer some kind of a guarantee if unsuccessful

We have no doubt after reading others opinions here that they were successful, however, its just that most of us are fighting to stay in our homes and 6500.00 upfront for most people is naturally impossible to come up with in 60 days!

I just signed my retainer with Rodis, and gave them all my account information. Now I'm hopefull and scared from  some of the things I heard from this firm.  I have two loans that have been sold every six months, I've had two forebearances that have not turned into a mod yet!! I am so frustrated with my bank, that has changed servicers, twice.  I hope that Rodis can help me get through this so that I can rest .  My bank is Quantum/Dovenmuele/ Green Planet.... all still under the name Quantum. I am sooooo tired of this crap!! I want my mod now!! so I hope that Rodis will help me, they are making some big promises.

Need help. I am currently one month behind and need advice on loan mods. My lender is Wachovia Mortgage and they have since then been acquired by Wells Fargo Bank. A recent press release by Wells Fargo Bank stated they are now offering the Wachovia customers the same loan mods as the Wells Fargo Bank customer. I would like to contact the lender myself but not sure what to say as I do not want to jepardize my chances for a loan mod. The logical thing would be to contact a few law firms for advice. I recently did contact a few law firms, it seems as though the going rate/retainer fee is about $3500.00. I'm hoping two things can be accomplished: reduction in interest rate as well as the principal balance. Anyone had any success with Wachovia?

I'm a reporter working on a story about loan modifications. If you live in western part of San Bernardino County, and would like to share your experience with the process please email me at mediha.dimartino@inlandnewspapers.com

I just terminated my relationship with Rodis Law Group. I retained the firm about 90 days ago. At the time I was told the modification could take 30-60 days. When I asked if I should continue making my mortgage payments, my contact at Rodis implied that if I did, it might make the negotiations a bit more difficult...at that point, I trusted the firm completely (big mistake).

The periodic updates I received were summed up with "everything is fine, don't worry, you're fine." Well 60 days into the process I finally asked for more specifics (milestones, timeline, etc). At that point I was provided a case manager.

The case manager was honest enough to say that she had only been assigned my case about 30 days after I had paid the fee, (what?!...my case just sat there while the other Rodis employee would email to tell me everything was fine). She also informed me that I should continue to make my payments in full causing me to dip into my savings to catch up. Then in conversations with the case manager I quickly realized she didn't really know much about my loan (who my first is with, etc).

One night my case manager called to schedule an appointment for me to speak with Mr. Rodis about the proposed modification. She couldn't give me any details as to what the modification was about and skirted around my questioning with, "I'm not the attorney and cannot divulge this information." The appointment date/time came and went. It wasn't until I continued my persistent calling that Mr. Rodis called to inform me this process could take an additional 4-6 MONTHS and that (here's the dreaded F-word)...everything was FINE!

What can I thank Rodis Law Group for? (1) Wiping out my savings - and at one point, leaving me with zero in checking (2) Putting me even more behind the eight ball as I'm now working with another attorney (3) Additional stress with their unfulfilled promises.

BUYER BEWARE!

RE: Rodis Law Group

I retained them in December.   I am going throught the same thing as the person above. Also, I received a contract via email.  I signedand sent it back.  The took their $6000 already and I have gottent no update other than a modification was submitted and I had to wait onthe lender to respond. 

I also have been calling because, I have not recieved a copy of the contract signed by Ronald Rodis. I have not received anything in the mail. does anyone know if this contract signed by us is legal or binds them, if I don't have a copy signed by them.  I only have emails requesting to sign and send back.

I am only behind one month and am so affraid of this situation.  The above comment is the first negative comment I have found on Rodis.  Is there away to find out for sure if the are ligitimate or not, or just incompetent.  Also all my emails and requests for a copy of the contract signed by Ronald are getting ignored.

I HAVE NOT CLUE WHAT TO DO FROM HERE???? 

How long does the initial contact from law firm to lender take?  I retained Rodis in early January, have made my first payment, yet I received a call from my mortgage company on 1-30 telling me if I did not make a payment, my home would go into foreclosure 2-1.  I was physically ill the whole weekend and have not been able to sleep since.  Of course my contact at Rodis tells me NOT to worry, but that is easier said than done.  I too researched Rodis and found no negative information.  I understand I am not thier only client, so I would just like a timeline.  And an answer to the above- if I do not have a signed copy of the contract by both parties, is it legal and binding?

I know of the 3 loan mod companies I spoke with, all I heard were sales pitches.  When I spoke with Rodis Law Group, at least I heard what made sense and and a description of what could be done along with what couldn't be done.

I also know from a friend who works at Countrywide/BofA, there is a set procedure these banks follow for people looking to modify their loans and they are getting Thousands of requests Every Day!  So guys, wake up to reality, these things are going to take some time.  It's not like an attorney or anybody can just make a phone call and work out an agreement with the bank in an hour and it's done.

I've already had 2 conversations with the Rodis group over the period of the last month since I paid them $5,500 and I am very happy.  I am not making my mortgage payment as added leverage for the bank to do something so I'm actually out of pocket less than if I were making my mortgage payments.  I'm told the holder of my 2nd is already talking with the Rodis group about reducing my principle balance so I'm looking to save a ton of money!

Call me one very satisfied client!

I am an attorney who does real estate closings.  Business has been a little slow lately so I deicded to apply for a closing position with one of these loan-mod firms.  Upon extensive further investigation, I decided not to take the position because my gut said no. While what they do may not be entirely illegal, I do not want to lose my bar license by dealing with these predatory people.  I suggest you pick up the phone and talk with your own lender first.  If you cannot get any results, then call a local real estate lawyer who will charge a reasonable fee (not more than $1500 but maybe less).   Best wishes. Most competent real estate attorney's have dealt with lenders for years and have experience in loss mitigation.

Hello - Thanks to all for your posts.

I find myself joining the growing list of people considering Rodis Law Group. There appear to be a few folks from here currently in process with them. I would really appreciate hearing an update from (each of) you on how it's going. Please feel free to email me at geoffgow@yahoo.com

I have a property in FL that is only worth about $150K and the principal is $250K.

Only a principal reduction makes any sense to me.

Please let me (us) know how it is going for you.

Thanks - Geoff

I am doing a modificattion with Rodis Law Group, and things seem to be going well so far. My case manager has requested a lot more documentation than I thought they would need,and it has taken a while, but they just informed me they were able to get my interest rate dropped to 5%, and a reduction of my principal balance by $25,000. This is going to make a huge difference in my monthly payment and I feel very relieved because I didn't know what was possible to get from my lender.

Question for the last post and other Rodis Customers?  Did you get a copy of the contract signed by Ronald Rodis?  Did you get a welcome package?  I signed up with them.  They gave me two months to withdraw payments from my account and during that time, I have requested both items I mentioned above and have not received a thing.  YES the are paid in full by now.  I did get a call from a case manager asking for some more information.

My tendency is to still cautiously trust them based on other posts here.  I think they are also swamped with calls.  But, the people that I am dealing with there don't like to return calls.  Also, my lender and credit line holder, does not show that they are working on it.  I was told by Rodis that they will say that to get you to pay.???  I don;t know who to belive??? 

If I had to do it different, I would request an executed agreement by the attorney and a etimated timeline on the process before providing payment information.  The only paper work I have is what I signed and faxed back and it has no signature from them.  My mistake!!!  I don't know if our signatures only on the paper binds them as well.???

Hello to Bill, "Rodis Customer" and anyone else interested:

Thnk you guys very much for your posts.

It's all very worrisome. I have spoken with a number of loan mod people and none are as optimistic to a principal reduction as the Rodis guys are. Their fee is also the highest. Of course we tend to believe what we want to hear .....

Bill and "Rodis Customer" would you be willing to enter into an email dialogue so that we can maybe help each other by sharing our experiences. I am really against the wall and am going to be completing the paperwork today and getting it back to them. I appreciate the suggestion of waiting for an executed contract before parting with any payment. Thanks very much for that!

If you're willing - please contact me at geoffgow@yahoo.com .....

Thanks very much - Geoff

Debating engaging a law firm to do a loan Mod for me.

Fortunately I still have small equity and am current, However my

loan resets to fully amortized in the fall (interest only now)...

Have spoken with Rodis, and not acted yet. Would really appreciate

hearing law firm experiences, also what they charged... I have a first and

a Heloc.... thanks so much for anyone's reply and suggestions of a good

firm, ones to avoid and rates... thanks, Dan

Hello Dan,

How are you getting on? I have not yet made a decision either. I am looking at two others in addition to Rodis.  New York Financial Group and RapidModify.com.

I don't know much (anything) about either of them so the jury is still well and truly out. It's early daze ......... (days).

You're welcome to contact me if you would like to compare notes.

Geoff

geoffgow@yahoo.com

I had a VERY bad experience with a loan modification company.  I found this company online called www.modfraud.org and they were able to get the $3,850 I paid to the company back for me.  It took a little while to get it back, about 2 weeks, but my husband and I were so happy. We used it to just pay the freaking mortgage! Ask for Trigg at <a href="http://www.modfraud.org">ModFraud.org</a>

Beware of Alexis Ungerer and her so called business, Visionary investment properties inc.  This woman will come into your home, shake her fat behind, promise you all the things you want to hear and then take your money.  She demands money up front, in our case 1700.00.  She promised us that we would have our principle reduced and provided fraudelent proof of past acomplishments.  After several months of trust I went back to our loan people and faound out she had not contacted them and had lied the entire time.  This put us back 3 months.  I asked her to justify her fee and she sent back a letter stating that if I sued her I would be seen as sue happy and would lose the lawsuit. The interesting thing is...I never mentioned a lawsuit.  She is a scammer and a thief.  If you have any business with her, don't pay her another dime and report her to the California State Attorney Generals Office.  They already have a file open on her and are currently investigating her.

Hey to all the people who were asking about FLM...

I paid them $4000 and didn't hear from them in 2 MONTHS!!!! I couldn't get a hold of them and when I did I asked for refund because I had lost so much time with nothing done, they kept talking me in circles. I was so frustrated I almost had a nervous breakdown. That was like 2 months of mortgage payments, and on top of that I felt so stupid for falling for this. I finally saw a Hope Now free counselor and they gave me this number to a hotline that connects people with lawywers to get their money back from these scam companies. Well I'm happy to say I actually did get all my money back thank god so if anyoen else thinks they may need this the number is 800-991-6504. I know they had a website but I forget what it is because it's really long name. Anyway, hope this helps, and PLEASE DON'T FALL FOR THEM LIKE I DID!!

Nathan,

I was just wondering if your firm is nation wide or just in CA.  If your firm is nation wide could you please email me at goofymomof2@aol.com.  We are also thinking of hiring The Rodis Group but not sure.  We did a loan mod last year and they changed us to a 40 year note and our payments stayed the same.  So we need to find a good company that can help us lower our payments.

Thanks,

Shannon

I just heard from a company called DSB Loan Modification they charge 795.00 with a 100% money back guarantee.  Does anyone know if this company is a scam or not?  Here is their website: www.dsbloanmodification.com

Nathan,

My wife and I took on a ballon loan at 8% in order to save her parents home from foreclosure, after her mom died of cancer leaving two highschool boys which we ended up taking in as well.  We were told that after three years of payments we could refinance the house to get a better rate and a new loan.  Well here we are three years later the mortage is upside down by $100,000 and we cannot refinance.  Because we have made all of our payments on time - which we have stressed over making monthly for the past three years - the bank doesn't want to modify our loan - CHASE - I believe that in our time of greif we were taken advantage of by the broker, all we want is a decent % and a lower monthly payment as well as a reduction in price which was inflated at the time anyway all of our supposed equity we had does not exist.  I want to hire an attorney because the bank doesn't want to do anything unless we have missed three or more payments.  $2,800 a month is alot for a modest household but why should I have to mess up my credit to get this straghtened out.  Your thoughts?  Do you know any good Attorneys in Miami, Florida? 

Mark J.   I would prefer an email of your answer.    

Mark,

You qualify for a hardship modification. To qualify you must have inverted equity (upside down), can show hardship, want to stay in the house, and can show that you can make a payment if a more reasonable amount could be arranged. This is the only customer we even market for, by the way. Once we qualify over the phone, they are asked to fill out a set of financials. That will help us determine if their is financial hardship.

What type of mortgage do you have? Fixed, ARM? If ARM, what type?  What is the interest rate? What is the balance? Do you have a second mortgage? Rate and amount? Or another loan, say an Equity Line of Credit?

Would you like to see an actual modified loan sent to one our actual customers from their lender? We are a brick and mortor company, by the way, and before this did mortgage lending, specializing in FHA Reverse Mortgages.  The owners of the company looked into loan modifications over a year ago. They piggy-backed the lawyer-based one (they are attorneys) where the idea is that they attorney uses a forensic audit of the loan documents than threaten to sue the lender unless they modify the loan. They decided against this path because of the problems it presents and the poor results it has achieved. They went with the process which seems to be the most successful process there is, I believe. Once someone is qualified and the file submitted to processing, and from there (after a final review) it's submitted to the lender. Processing is a big expense, and the loan modification places that actually do any real volume use them. They are really the most important part of the business, and the best processing place is very expensive.  Whenever you see a place that say 90+% successful modifications, they almost always use the exact same process we use because it is the most efficient. (Or they could be frauds, I suppose).  Some of the tiny places probably process their own files, and call the lender themselves. It's the only way they can charge such small fees.  Attorney's must eithe use in house processors or the same processing places we use (we use the most expensive one, but easily the best in the country).   

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but how else could an attorney negotiate for the client considering his cost? I can't see attorney's being able to really devote more than a few hours to an actual loan modification for some of the prices I've seen around here, so they use processors, right?  Just getting to the right loss mitigation agent in some of these mortgage service company's can take hours. The time spent calling, faxing, emailing some of these Byzantine places is staggering. The lawyer would have to rely on his processing staff for a typical loan modification I guess. Or his fee would have to be much, much higher if he did it all himself. And not to be combative, but what do lawyers know about mortgages? The lawyers I know aren't experts at mortgages, they're experts at whatever field of law they're practicing.

Anyway, you ABSOLUTELY can get your loan modified, assuming you met the criteria I mentioned. You are my typical customer that I speak to all day long, though we mostly target California, Nevada and Arizona. If you knew how loan modifications worked, you would realize just how much leverage you have.  If you let me know your email address, I'll send you customer testimonials along with their actual modified loan documents from their lender.  A customer who had a 9.4% loan had the rate reduced to 4.3% and the principal reduced by $100K as well.  Another customer had their $2000 a month payment cut to $1000 a month and their interest rate reduced from 7% to 2% for the entire term (nearly 30 years left, I believe). 

You will have no problem getting your loan modified with any legit place. I don't think I'm right for you because we do charge up front fees and apparently we're more expensive than others. How do people expect to get paid after the modification considering the average customer's financial health when they modify their mortgage. There is really no recourse, and expenses for legit places are quite high. I think you will see a lot of angry loan mod guys who have been stiffed pretty soon.

Good luck. If you want some answers on why you should have no problem getting your loan modded, email me at greg@loansettlementcenter.com or my personal email at greg.moulton2@gmail.com.  There's no real mystery to it.

Greg.

My advice about Rodis Law Group...Stay Away.  I have been manipulated by them for over 3 months now.  The above negative statements appear to be the norm in how they keep dragging you along grasping to hope, repeatedly.  If you are truly in financial trouble, YOU can contact the bank that holds your mortgage and I advise that you do.  Direct communication is very helpful.  Let them know your situation, send in a  letter of hardship explaining your income loss or lack of ability to pay at the current amount, tax income information or whatever information they require you to send them and they may work with you.  

It is in the banks interest to salvage some form of consistent income on your property, especially in the current default ridden. lower valued home market.  Preferably by reducing your interest rate to a lower, maybe fixed rate.

Try the direct approach first.  If you can show a significant income loss/hardship and can still manage to pay your mortgage at a reasonable reduced amount... first, be grateful you still have income in this screwed up economy and then try to help yourself < WITHOUT RODIS LAW GROUP >            Their retainer agreement was the first sign I had to a bad deal (i.e. No guarantees, No legal recourse) but I kept clinging to a false hope, wanting to believe what they told me... "It helps your case to not pay your mortgage, we can help you, everythings fine and moving along."  Only to keep waiting for communications at absolutely critical times that never come except just enough to get you back to clinging to the relentless unfufilled hope. Initially, they will make verbal promises that can't be legally binding unless you record those statements with their knowledge (then they wouldn't make those "promises") and cover their a_ _ by saying "I can't legally promise you...but 1000% of my customers have been satisfied." 

Please take my advice.  Don't think in your head "this person had bad luck but I'll be o.k."  Do this on your own first.  If your already commited by sending them money and a retainer..good luck, I wish you the best, but you might want to contact the bank yourself anyway.  I recommend it.

I am so glad to have come across this blog.  I have been talking to Rodis Law Group for the past 2 days.  It almost sounds to good to be true.  I can't understand lawyers wanted so much up front.  We are all in this mess because of financial stress.  They seem to want alot upfront.  I have 20 days to respond to foreclosure papers.  I am just talking to whoever I can and gather information.  If anyone can help I would appreciate it.

Thanks

I have two loans on my house and am behind on both payments. I don"t want to lose it, and I really need help. I  have talked to several companies that do loan modifications this week. One was USA Home Relief, and one was Federal Loan Mod, but both of them really tried to sell me to sign up with them witthout asking me much about my situation. One even said they would discount my fee if I signed up today. I felt like I was buying a used car. I also talked with Rodis Law Group and feel most comfortable with them. They were more expensive, but also seemed very knowledgeable and didn't make outrageous promises like the other places I spoke to. I still don't know what to do, but I believe an attorney will be able to do more for me than anyone else. Any thoughts? 

Thank you to the many of you who have emailed me personally regarding Rodis.

I have elected to scrape together another two mortgage payments while I continue my search for consistency and truth in the loan mod world.

Rodis remain the only company that is promising me a principal reduction and they also do not offer a money back guarantee like many other companies do. Incidentally, I've contacted 5 other companies that do offer money back and they have declined to take my case.

I would love to be a Rodis advocate and tell you all how wonderful they are but I can't summon the intestinal fortitude to sign their contract and pay their retainer - not yet anyway.

I have called my lender (Chase) twice and each time been told that I was a likely candidate for a rate reduction (though my current rate is already low at 5.88) and other slight of hand to lower the payments in the short term - BUT a big fat NO to a principal reduction.

Unfortunately this is the only thing that makes sense to me as the place is $100K underwater and by the time I could save that much or recoup it in the property market my credit score would be healed from the damage a short sale would cause.

It's a tough choice.

Please feel free to email if you wish and I will share directly and candidly anything I learn.

Thanks - Geoff

geoffgow@yahoo.com

I just heard from a company called DSB Loan Modification, they charge $795.00 for the first mortgage only, with some money guarantee back. Does anyone know if this company is a scam or not?  Here is their website: www.dsbloanmodification.com

I was first a victim of Ameriquest.  Have not been late on a mortgage payment since 03.  Ameriquest over inflated the value of our home to make us a loan.  I currently have a fixed interest loan, but it is 8.825% and the payment is 1000 a month.  I filed out a form online regarding loan modification.  I have been contacted by three companies.  Dunn Russell, Loan Modification Solutions, and AFS with the law offices of Michael Yellin. Do you any of you know anything about these companies.  I am current on my payment, but if just one little thing goes wrong, I can see us falling behind. 

I am current on my first of 440k and 2nd at 3.3k and my credit rating should be good as I have made most of my other payments on time and I'm also current on them. Next mortgage payments of 2500 for both (interest only at 6.75% ARM) is due on 4/5/09 and I'm about to use my plastic to make them. I went to talk to Safaie & Assoc, and I actually talk to one  Attorney and they really didn't make big promisses on the results, the problem was that they asked me for $4700 with half at signing of the contract and the other half in 2 weeks, so if I pay them that, I won't have money for the mortgage payments next month and in two weeksI would have to come another equal amount.

I'll apreciate all sugestions.

Thanks

Jorge Del

Wow, what an informative blog.

I have researched several law firms and loan mod companies and feel I have done more than enough homework on the situation.  I am currently in the process of waiting for documents from the Rodis Law Group.  I am not sending any money until I have have seen and received back a signed contract and after reading the posts here, doubt I will go through with them at all.  It's hard to judge these posts, one such individual possed a question about Rodis Law, Mark back in Jan and 5 days later posted again about everything they did for him.  Signed docs, payment, negotiation and a settlement in 5 days....come on now.

Honestly though they have seem like the most reliable of those I have spoken with and the explanations I received are logical and well thought out, but I can't ignore the negative comments posted here.

I have contacted my servicing company and have gotten no where fast.  Well no where I want to be.

I am just at a loss of how difficilt this process is...anyone that has had any luck with this process I am all ears.

Thanks

Adam

Just came across this great site.  From the post above....has anyone has success using USADVOCATELAWGROUP.COM???  Also, do any of you know a good attorney in WA STATE for loan modication???  I know from the answer Nathan Fransen won't do them. 

To those of you who doubt the validity of my warning please understand...I am in the process of losing my home.  I trusted Rodis Law group and they completely let me down.  Be very careful.  Unless they do nothing to actually help you, just a little can be enough to keep your money once you sign and return the retainer.  Not to mention losing your home.  They will keep in touch with you before you are legally committed, but from my terrible experience, once you commit, eventually it is difficult to have them return calls or emails and then they start changing case workers and case managers on you.  This then starts to repeat the beginning process, the case workers are unfamiliar with your case, they need you to resend information and valuable time goes by.  I'm not doing this to hurt Rodis.  I'm doing this to help prevent someone else from being hurt like I am. 

i have  just contacted  rodis law group and spoke to them over the phone  im kinda  nervous about sending them 5,500 dollars to help us lower our monthly payment.  the price of our house dropped drastically since the market went down hill.  is there any onest people out there any more!!!

Well, a little feedback on www.modfraud.org.

After a most impressive beginning with these folks they dissipated into thin air. Did this have something to do with me asking how they were able to receive compensation (referral fees) from attorneys? The California Bar Journal is quite clear on this matter - being that non attorneys are not to receive such fees from attorneys.

 http://www.calbar.ca.gov/state/calbar/calbar_cbj.jsp?sCategoryPath=/Home/Attorney%20Resources/California%20Bar%20Journal/March2009&sCatHtmlPath=cbj/2009-03_TH_02_ethicsalert.html&sCatHtmlTitle=Top%20Headlines

Multiple voice mails and emails have been ignored for well over a week now.

Does anyone else have any information about this group?

Thanks - Geoff

I work for a loan modification company in AZ (EM Lynch and Assoc).  We have bee n inbusiness for 5 years doing loan mods and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.  We also have a physical office.  We charge $1500 and offer a 100% moneyback guarantee and return fees within 72 hrs of a written request.  Our negotiators are good and honest, and have gotten people really good rates.  Also have to say that we have attorneys for clients.  They charge their clients 5k and turn around and pay us 1500 to do the paperwork.  There are a lot of scams out there and I think it is really sad.  How can people sleep at night?  Anyways, it feels good to help families.  We saved someone from foreclosure 3 days before the sale date!!!!

Hi, I am also a case manager with Save My Home USA. I have helped many clients with successful loan modifications, I have also heard the horror stories of the scam companies that are popping up everywhere. We are very proud to say we are the largest loan modification company in the country and have helped thousands of our clients in saving their homes. We have attorneys that get results quickly and affordably.We do not charge up front fees, and offer a money back guarantee.We are an accredited member BBB and have maintained an A rating of customer satisfaction. If you are interested in hearing more about our loan modification program, you may contact me via my Email, or simply dial my direct phone # (763)331-3924. Thank you, Danielle

A message to the Save My Home USA folks.

Would you please post your email address(s)?

Thank you very much - Geoff

I contacted Rodis Law Group 2 months ago regarding my mortgage with HSBC.  I was totally jerked around by HSBC and I was in a 8.75% ARM.   I talked to a man ther and he seemed very knowledgable and friendly.  When he sent out my retainer, I also freaked out with how they seem to cover their butt.  Ihad no choice with my back against the wall I went ahead and sent it in.  Even though it has been difficult to always get in touch with their legal department I was always able to get ahold of my intake officer. I just received a notice with a pre-approval on a loan modification dropping my interest rate to a 4.25% fixed for the remainder of my loan.  I was behind almost $25000 and not only did the forgive all the past due interest  and HSBC also reduced my principle balance $24,000 dollars.   I am supposed to receive the documents to sign now within 30 days.  I would reccomend Rodis Law Group to anyone but I would caution that they could communicate more with their clients.  I suspect that they have a very large workload.  I was able to find out that they had no complaints and on TRUSTLINK.ORG they had 3 positive reveiews.  Good Luck!!!  Check out the following link:
http://www.trustlink.org/BusinessProfile.aspx?ID=2PuNeWIdFHZBk3wb5w4vww==

Anybody here knows nhagroup.us? are they a refutable company?

Can anyone recommend a law firm to retain for assisting with a loan modification in the San Francisco Bay Area?  Everyone I read about appears to be in So. California.  Is it unreasonable to expect to meet face to face wtih an attorney I am about to retain in his or her office?

Jeremy,

I read your post on Rodis Law Group and I'm curious when you signed up with them and how long did they take. I signed up with them on Dec. 20, 2008 and they still haven't done anything. Every time I call my intake officer that he keeps sending emails to the negotiator and he hasn't heard anything. In the meantime, I'm now getting letters from an attorney telling me the house is now in foreclosure. It has been 3 months and 16 days since I hired them, is this normal? I'm getting real scared.

Ann

I am astonished at some of what I have seen here and there is some good info as well. About me I actually negotiate with lenders everyday and I work out loan resolutions and Loan modifications. They are real they are not easy and the lenders are not going to help very many people if they do not know what they need to do to get one. I employ anyone who reads this to check out a writer who is not in the real estate or mortgage industry and is impartial. His name is Martin Andelman and his Stories are featured on www.ML-Implode.com. I talk to lenders everyday and I can't even imangine what happens to a customer that calls there bank and asks for help. I spoke to Countrywide today and let me tell you this happends everyday with more than one Bank. I was told that the client we were representing did not qualify, I called back 10 minutes later and spoke to someone else and was able to get the file referred to their Hope team. The lenders no matter how much the government trys to intevene is not going to be able to withstand the current onslaught that is occuring with the people who need help. Anyone who wants to know the truth about Loan modifications can shoot me an email or simply call me directly. I have never had a problem with 1 file getting modified that I have consulted on. With that said I only work on realistic scenario's and most of the companies that are commiting crimes are not concerned about the borrower and whether or not they qualify. By the way If you read Martins articles (He also writes for MSNBC) He has come to our offices and investigated us and our operation and video taped and interviewed me personally.

Sincerely,

Paul Horvat

paulh@amrsite.org

949-394-3636

People in trouble with their mortgages should find free professional consultation. Mortgage modifications can often only be done once or have limitations on use. A successful modification with the best possible outcome requires careful preparation. A homeowner must show a viable case for modification to be considered. They must have detailed information on debt to income ratio and budget planning. Free information is at www.wemodifyyourmotgage.com . Find out what it takes to qualify before you approach your bank. Carefully prepare you documents for submission to the bank. You are preparing to take advantage of a clause in the mortgage contract.

My case with Rodis Law Group has just been finalized.  I am very happy with what they did.  Although my case wasn't fast, it took just over 4 months to be completed, the results are great and my wife and I are no longer losing sleep over the possibility of losing our home!

I agree with someone above who said their communications with us could have been more frequent.  It seems like I was updated about once every 2 weeks.  When I called in I usually had to leave a voicemail for the case manager overseeing our case.  The Attorney overseeing our case was Erik Brimmer and he was great!  Very knowledgable and helpful.  Erik did mention they are working on many hundreds of cases and they update people as best they can.  He also mentioned the banks are overloaded right now and often several weeks will pass with no movement by the bank, and there's no update to pass on to the client.

Overall, I view the $5,500 we paid Rodis Law as money well spent!  Anybody that wants to contact me may as I've input my email address.  Thank you Mr. Brimmer and Mr. Rodis!

Hello George,

Thank you very much for your encouraging posting detailing your experience with Rodis. I would very much like to contact you as you invited however your email address does not show up.

Would you please drop me a quick note to geoffgow@yahoo.com ?

Thanks very much,

Geoff

Hello, I'm in the process or signing the agreement with Feldman Law Center...the girl I spoke with was very nice. But i decided to do some research before I fax over the agreement and the process I read few extremely negative comments.

They're charging me upfront fee of $3495. I am now having my doubts and scared to fax the agreement.

I guess my question is can I do this my self? If not what are the benefits of hiring a lawyer?

Thank you in advance

Kristina,

Feldman is alright a little pricey $$ Here's the deal how much time do you have to work on this on your own?

What your paying for first and foremost is the people to wait on hold follow up on faxes deal with frustrating people oh and know your rights in the transaction. The company I represent does actually get modifications done and if you would like a free consult I would be happy to help you and if you look like a candidate I can get you a very good fee structure and no hassels. Let me reiterate what I am telling you Yes you can do this on your own but it is a time consuming and frustrating process. If you want to do it there are several places I can point you to in order to get this done yourself. It would be helpful to know who your lender is and If you let me know I can save you tons of time.

Good Luck,

Paul Horvat

Actual Loan Mod Negotiator.

949-394-3636

Feldman Law Center has been providing loan modification services with great success long before many of these loan mod companies and law firms came on the scene. I know, i have worked for Mr. Feldman for a year now and know him personally. Recently Steven C. Feldman and the Feldman Law Center have faced an onslought of negative publicity and suspect the source to be a disgruntled employee, 2 competitors and a few unscrupulous loan mod companies that Feldman has pusued for clients and assisted in running them out of town.Additionally, Erin Baldwin of Bad Biz Finder is trying to tie Steven Feldman to Apply2Save and FEDMOD, this is simply untrue and unfortunate that this girl has nothing better to do than slander legitimate attorneys that work tiredly to save homeowners facing foreclosure. Unfortunately,  the internet is an open forum at times to attack someones integrity, make slanderous statements and/or pose as a unsatisfied customer. Feldman Law Center has saved hundres of homes from foreclosure and been extreemly successful in modifying loans for many of their clients. Feldman has a very dedicated and knowledgeable staff, state of the art loss mittigation software, hundreds of proven results, many satisfied client testamonials and evedently a few enemies that are unable substantiate their accusations.

The truth about loan modifications is EVERY case is unique to the client, mortgage servicer and the investor. Also, a loan modification can take anywhere between 30 days and 5 months. A loan modification is NOT a refinance and the time line varies based on several factors. In addition to the fact that this industry has changed significantly over the last year I can tell you that Rodi, Francen and Feldman as well as a few other law firms have VERY good intentions and are plenty capable. The bottom line here is Feldman law Center gets results and others are envious and jelous of Mr. Feldman's success. Just go to http://www.feldmanlawcenter.biz/ and view the results for yourself.

The Feldman Law Center's phone number is 800.588.0425.

P.S. If you are in need of a loan modification to save your home from foreclosure definately use an attorney (LAW OFFICE) and not a loan modification company.

Greg,

Nice response, heres the problem with your post that I have. Your way over defending yourself man. First you should be for people getting help,  By telling people to only use a Lawyer tells me that you have only worked for a lawyer. I have been in real estate for 17 years and have worked all sides of loss mit and short sales. I myself am a Negotiator/Not an attorney and thus over the last year I have accomplished some of the very same things people like you have been telling people I can't. So we're clear Feldman is a great Company and anyone who is looking to use them should absolutely consider it. My only beef is that you charge Lawyer fees (HIGH) And other companies charge less and do similar. So the point I would make is that you should make comments and give feedback here and araound the web that promotes Loan Mod advocacy rather than defend and promote your company. I would be happy to talk if I have raised your ire and I can certainly back up your statement that you have no connection to FLM, Apply2save. So your good there. Please in the future promote loan mod services rather than slam others unless their fraudulent.

Thanks,

Paul Horvat

Ok you Guys,

We seem to have degenerated into a "he said - she said" and defensive posturing mode.

This forum has probably done a lot of good for people in trouble with their loans and it would be a real shame if the moderators pulled it because it was no longer meeting its intended purpose.

Just a thought

Whoa,

Nathan with all do respect here and the same to Feldman, I am not at all engaging in "he said she said". I actually said Feldman was a good choice as far as service and sure enough as most of you "Attorneys" seem to always do you anticipate something to mean something other than which it is intended. I am here to defend paying for loan modification Services and find myself having to measure resumes or something. I am not trying to sell my services over that of a competitor. If Feldman law wants anyone who reads this to beleive that a company like the one I work for cannot help them in anyway close to a Law firm? I suggest you come down here and look at our record I have and am currently in several documentaries and interviews regarding Loan Mods. I have allowed people to come in and look at our whole operation to insure it's legitamate. SO with that said Please try to help the problem rather than point out that your company is better (He said She Said) and that's why we charge more argument. If people need a lawyer and that makes them feel better then they should certainly go with Feldman. I however will remind you that last year one of the teams in the World Series was one of the lowest paid teams in all of Baseball yet they did a better job than other teams with more experience that were paid nearly triple.

Paul Horvat

"Counselor your witness"

Excellent and informative blog, thank you Nathan for setting it up. I am also in the process of seeking a loan mod as it has been more and more difficult to maintain our mortgage, and we've never been late.

One person I found suggested a short pay re-fi. Upon doing some research, it sounds great, but you know the saying, "If it sounds too good to be true..". Anyways, wondering if you or anyone else on the board might have an opinion or knowledge of this.

Thank you!

John

Paul- If it appeared I was over defending Feldman Law Center it may be due to the recent attacks Feldman has faced on the internet and not your post. My comment regarding the use of an attorney over a loan mod company was pointed at the masses and certainly not directed at you or your company. Please understand that Feldman Law Center was one of the first on the loan mod scene and has seen it all, or at least thought we did. I'm not saying there are not some good loss mittigation firms out there but quite honestly Feldman has taken on hundreds of files from clients that had sent loan mod companies up front fees with NO results and bad intentions. Additionally, loan modification lead providers say most loan mod companies are lasting an average of 3 months in buisness and then dissapearing off the face of the earth. While I am sure there are some loan modification companies with good intentions and ethicall behavior most of them are simply marketing to struggling home owners and sendig files off to backend processors that have no knowledge of representations made to the client. Many of these borrowers DO NOT qualify and should have taken another route, i.e. short sale, BK etc. Many of these home owners come to us in NOD status or worse yet with a sale date hanging over there head after failed attempts by loan mod companies who can't get their loan modified because they simply take every file. It infuriates us to see what we have seen over the past year and hear the horror stories from these people. Loan modification companies telling people to stop making payments and placing them in harms way of losing their home. Home owners comming to us with trustee sale dates in two weeks because of emty promises and no results. I honestly believe if we can't get it done it can't be done.

As to your comment about "High Fees" charged by a lawyer I strongly disagree. Feldman typically charges between $3,000 and $4,000 and offers a lot of "bang for the buck" to it's clients. Most loan mod companies I have heard of charge between $2,000 and $5,000 and that seems like a lot to me for someone who is not an attorney.  Clients needing mods are also experiencing other financial hardships as well. They need a good attorney to guide them, offer solid advice, make a BEST EFFORT and use their legal expertise to oversee negotiatiations and deliver  the best deal possible. I do not want to go back and forth as I'm sure you may be one of the "good guys" out there. What I will offer is a tour of our operation in exchange for the same. Feldman Law Center spent 5 months and over $100,000 developing what we see as the most sophisticated loss mittigation software in the country. If you are interested please just go to the contact us page at www.feldmanlawcenter.com and send a message. I will be happy to set up a tour and demo of our software as well. The goal at the Feldman Law Center is at to make a strong impact in this industry, preserve home ownership and help establish stability in our housing market. We will settle for nothing less!

Kristina- You  may certainly try a loan modification on your own and we can provide you direction if you cannot afford our services. Please remember that you are submitting ALL your personal and financial information to the lender to either qualify of disqualify you for a loan modification. While some may get decent results on their own it's not likely they will be able to negotiate a "better deal" than the mortgage servicers 1st offer, if you qualify. Of coarse I may be partial to hiring an attorney to handle these matters as I don't try to cut my own hair or mow my lawn. I hire professionals rather than go it alone or take a chance scewing it up to save a few bucks. I know $3,495.00 is NOT a "few bucks" but quite honestly it may be the BEST $3,495.00 you ever spent. Feldman will fight to the death to save your home... that's a fact!

Nathan- KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK! Thank you for your good words and impartial views.

Ok Nathan,

I see your point so let me get a little ugly here, Feldman Law took several thousands of dollars from a Client that I currently represent. I am just about finished with the Modification. The very things that they say they are afraid of out there is exactly what happened to my Client using there service. SO since you deleted my post because I used the borrowers name with their permission mind you. I will spell it out again: I am all about people getting what is right for them, I have provided my personal name, phone number for anyone who wants help! All that feldman has done in response to my posts is type in their Web site address and slam people who they claim are doing a poor job on modifications when in fact they have had some similar outcomes to those very same people. I do not promote my company I promote fairness and in all fairness quit selling feldman law and lawyers in general as the only way to get these done. Since your an attorney I will respect your deletion of my post but I will point out that as is always seemingly the case, an attorney has sheltered the truth in this matter by deleting the post that could potentially change the mind of someone who has been SOLD on the idea that an attorney and olny an attorney is the right way to go, I object counselor! Let the record show that you have deleted the truth and if feldman looks up the name of that client they will have little to say! I Pray that Kristina sees the light and saves herself the money by calling me to help here FOR FREE! See I tell people what to do to get a mod and if they can't do it then we charge them a fee and explain our services. Most companies scare the crap out of the borrower and make them feel like they can't do this themselves. A man who read this blog called me and spoke to me about doing a modification and thus far I think he is happy with my candor and honesty. I will not scare him, I will not mislead him, I will not charge him $3495 to do some administrative work for him.

Sincerely,

Paul Horvat

949-394-3636

And, here comes that opinionated jerk "Molinaro" again... assuming a loan modification is REALLY what a borrower needs, then he/she can do it (1) on his/her own; (2) through a non-profit; (3) through a lawyer; or (4) through some loan mod shop.

One of the biggies of the bank lender world has recently announced that it will open its branch offices to its "customers" who need loan mods... that means these people can go right to their local branch, meet FACE TO FACE with a personal banker  and get help... seems like it could be great for these borrowers... no cost and easy to do. If other big banks follow suit, it might be a real nail in the coffin to entities who charge for loan mods. And that would be a great thing as it saves money for the homeowners and eliminates a new and growing breed of scam artist.

The non-profits, many of which do a great job, are over-worked and underfunded, and this would ease the burden on them. Law firms could concentrate on the more complex loan modifications (multiple properties, high end unique palaces, commercial properties, bankruptcy/loanmod combos, etc.).

Law firms, such as mine, would then be able to offer very inexpensive (maybe an hourly rate for an hour or two of work) to review the loan mod contract provided by a lender to our client BEFORE it gets signed. By the way, it would not be a bad idea for a buyer of a home to spend a few hundred bucks having a mortgage lawyer review the loan docs before signging... but I digress.

Now, of course, people reading this are saying, "Hey, Molinaro, what will you do then?" to which I say, "Continue adding staff to my practice to sue loan mod scammers, including the ones who hire attorneys under an illegal scheme to get around DRE rules." I'm getting more and more calls every day for this area of practice... and I'm seeing the same names pop up over and over (or as they are being called here. "the usual suspects"). It makes writing the complaints easier too, as the template needn't be edited too much, and I've already got a good address for service of process.

- Paul

Mr Horvat- You are talking out both sides of your mouth. First you say if someone needs an attorney "Feldman" is a good choice then you bash Feldman with your BS and I will quote your earlier post!

"So we're clear Feldman is a great Company and anyone who is looking to use them should absolutely consider it." AND "I actually said Feldman was a good choice as far as service and sure enough as most of you "Attorneys" seem to always do you anticipate something to mean something other than which it is intended" THEN YOU SAY "Feldman Law took several thousands of dollars from a Client that I currently represent. I am just about finished with the Modification. The very things that they say they are afraid of out there is exactly what happened to my Client using there service" 

Additionally, you say we are using Mr. Francen's blog to promote advertise Feldman Law Center and you appear to be the one promoting your Broker based Loan Mod Shop! Just in case you have not noticed sir Feldman is on network TV, Radio stations, LA Times, Parenting Magazine, endorsments from Bill Handle, Kennedy I guess I can go on and on,  or just go google loan modification attorney or anything like that.... SO my point is What's the name of your company, and why are you offering free consultations etc? I would STRONGLY suggest to ANYONE in financial hardship to speak with an attorney and get proper and non-bias legal advise. As a broker based loan mod shop you SHOULD NOT be counsling these troubled clients... they may be better served with anothe coarse of action. Further more, why would someone come to a mortgage broker for FREE financial advice when they can call Francen, Feldman or Molinaro and get free legal advice? Let's just get the record straight. Mr. Feldman has represented many profesional athletes and negotiated hundreds of contracts over the past 30 years. Mr. Feldman has also taken several pro bono cases and refunded pleanty of dollars to help out the ones that need it. Feldman has also paid reinstatement fees out of his own pocket for his clients that were in need and deserving of it.In the recent years he has changed his focus to helping the less fortunate home owners stuck in a lousy loan some broker put them and made thousands. By the way if you think I'm defending him "you're damn right"

Just so we are clear. I do not know of one attorney that bats 1000. We take on mods others may not. Feldman makes a BEST EFFORT and does NOT sell emty promises or quote interest rates. And just for the record - He had nothing to do with putting these struggling borrowers in the position they are in. He get's them out of it while offering solid legal advice. Can you say that?

Bravo Greg,

Apparently Nathan will not let me respond but in case he does I will offer this to you I said and I still say Feldman is a great company, my point in bringing up the client that Feldman could not seem to help and I am able to was to once again promote that a loan mod company can do some of the same things if not a better job depending on situation. And once again you keep throwing out legal advice saying that people should only use an attorney. SO we are clear I wonder why the DRE allows mortgage brokers to obtain an advanced fee agreement could it be that they beleive that a Broker could in fact be a legitimate solution for an ailing home owner or are all brokers Crooks? I also mentioned in my 2 deleted posts that the client I am currently helping that was a Feldman client probably was at atime when you guys were just getting in to loan mods. ( I defended you after I slammed you) So get off your high horse please and try to allow others who are helping people for free and have legal counsel as well to support them help these people. I don't want to argue with someone paid to argue I want to have a civil discussion based on respect for one another and at this point you are attacking the truth and defending it with your companies track record. Nobody disputes Feldmans record and nobody disputes that you are not batting a thousand, I would put my record next to yours anyday and I think you might then have respect for someone else out there getting people help and not to mention for less. FYI I am not an attorney but I have had to defend my self on a few occassions and you know what some of my attorney friends have been overly impressed with the outcomes. Please I urge you to reconsider bashing people who want to truly help homeowners just because they are not a law firm.

Sincerely,

Paul Horvat

RE: "others who are helping people for free and have legal counsel as well to support them help these people."

Wow! Lawyers hired by non-lawyers to provide legal services to the clients of those non-lawyers. Dear Readers, please direct your attention to the California State Bar for a excerpt from their Ethics Alert dated February 2, 2009 and titled "Legal Services to Distressed Homeowners and Foreclosure Consultants on Loan Modifications." The excerpt is as follows:

"A California lawyer may not aid a foreclosure consultant or anyone else in the unauthorized practice of law. A lawyer may not form a partnership or joint venture with a foreclosure consultant or other non-lawyer if any of the activities of the business would involve providing legal services. A lawyer may not, under the guise of serving as in-house counsel for a foreclosure consultancy business, perform legal services for a distressed homeowner." [Emphasis added.]

Attention should then be directed to the California Business and Professions Code, which would be excerpted had there been enough bandwidth and room in this post for the appropriate sections to be quoted.

Just offering some food for thought.

- Paul

Paul- Aparently Nathan did allow your posting (and I am glad he did) being that you are not mentioning the clients name this time. I did recieve your email and do now know the clients name. I will be happy to review the file as there are 3 sides to every story (mine, your's and the truth). As to your comment about our inability to modify this persons loan could it simply be guidelines with lenders change like the weather in Texas or because someone may have finagled the financials to qualify. (I am NOT accusing or trying to amuse you) We will NOT commit mortgage fraud to bail someone out and get a mod, but we will make a "best effort" and I can provide you countless mods that are still preforming a year later preformed by Feldman's team. Additionally, your comment about the DRE "SO we are clear I wonder why the DRE allows mortgage brokers to obtain an advanced fee agreement could it be that they beleive that a Broker could in fact be a legitimate solution for an ailing home owner or are all brokers Crooks" is simple to explain.

Now they can regulate the the Brokers as they have been auditing them left and right. I mean honestly, do you not think the it's a little out of control? The DRE only wants the advance fee agreement in place so they know who to audit (useually a 3 week process)so they can fine them and get some revenue in this broken down California economy. You can only raise taxes and fees so much. Quite honestly I think troubled home owners should be able to get free mods through their lenders that preform, not set them up for future default. Over 50% of loan modifications preformed directly between the lender and the borrower fail due to poor results. Francen& Molinaro, Feldman Law Center, McFarlin Law Office as well as a few other Law Firms were the first on the scene and I'm sure it was not our first Rodeo. Now... There's a "attorney based", "attorney backed", "attorney backed" loan mod shop on every corner. I mean pretty soon we'll have "attorney backed" ice cream parlors and hair solons. Now the hot thing is to have your own "non-attorney" Law Firm! While I'm sure there's a few good one's out there for the most part they're just going through the motions trying to make a buck. Please don't get me started on this because I know of several we have had to get clients money back from. Anyway, I will welcome the comparison you asked for and maybe then I will change my position. Until then, let bygones be bygones, I nor you are being paid to argue here.

Good Luck

Paul- Thanks for allowing us to spout off. I know you are doing good work out there, keep it up!

Greg,

Let's bury the hatchett ok! I will admit you have some valid points I just can't understand why the tone of every attorney here sounds to the fact that I am illegally helping people. I mean I do work for a Lawyer. I just do not give legal advice when it comes to a foreclosure that would be as Paul put it Illegal. My point is simple I have been helping people do Loan mods for over a year now and I know a few others that deserve credit. I simply want some respect where its due. If you guys want to really help people you will admit that the problem is not the mod companies that are legit it's the banks. I spoke To Martin and he said to be nice to you guys so I will out of respect decline any further banter with you fine folks and I hope you can be humble as well.

Sincerely,

Paul

Some more foof for thought...

The PROCESS of doing a loan modification, whether on your own behalf or for someone else, just ain't brain surgery. Keeping with that theme... let's jump to medical world for a comparison. You walk into your local Doc-in-a-Box Urgent Care Center with fever and sore throat, and you get diagnosed with Strep throat. Your physician writes a script for some antibiotic and off your go to whine to your spouse about the fees and how quick your visit was after a two hour wait.

Writing your scrip was easy as pie, the doc just had to be legible. Even knowing what Rx to give for Strep throat is a no brainer. You wanna know why that doc gets $$$? Because he thought of all the other possibilities it could have been. While the differential diagnoses may be rare, they included tonsillar abscess which is potentially fatal. The doctor used years of training and experience in coming to the diagnosis. The treatment is simple. getting the diagnosis right is not.

Now, to make it clear, the loan mod is easy (relatively speaking), but the analysis of all the other options available and applying them to each individual and unique client and then taking into account the goal of that client and his or her budget is NOT EASY. One needs to be experienced and knowledgeable about litigation opportunities, bankruptcy (Chapters 7, 11, 13), applicable foreclosure laws, how lenders come after people for deficiency, tax consequences, and more (no need to provide the lengthy list here). Providing all the legal options, and giving that legal advice is what lawyers offer to troubled borrowers, and why they earn their fees.

Heck, any average broker or loan officer could probably do a loan mod by putting the budget together and submitting the package... that's no different than what they used to do when they did loans. But, then, keep in mind, doing a loan is EASY, giving a person the RIGHT loan is NOT EASY. There were people given loans that were not right for them, not explained to them, and/or outright illegal in some cases. how many people got steered into subprime loans when they qualified for A paper. How much did the hefty yield spread premium affect how a borrower got a loan program?

- Paul

Paul- I come from a family of filled with Doctor's and Lawyers and could not agree more. Ironically I recently thought I had a simple flu virus and went to an Urgent Care location and was miss-diagnosed with the same. Needless to say 1 week later I ended in the hospital for 10 days and almost died from a much more serious virus that was missed by the Urgent Care Doctor. I guess the moral of the story is "you get what you pay for". The same people that were miss guided into the wrong loans-option arm's etc....Shopping around looking for the aparent BEST DEAL with the LOWEST PAYMENT and the LOWEST FEES are now in jepordy of LOSING THEIR HOMES because the WENT TO THE WRONG MORTGAGE BROKER and got the WRONG ADVICE! These people are IN TROUBLE and NEED REAL HELP-SOLID LEGAL ADVICE AND THEY NEED TO KNOW ALL THEIR OPTIONS. Last time I checked when you are in trouble you hire AN ATTORNEY ....PERIOD!

As both you and I have seen over this past year many struggling homeowners are poorly informed by foreclosure consultants, getting scammed and losing their homes. Even though Feldman Law Center and Francen & Mollinaro are competitors FLC has reffered a few clients to your firm that wanted to come to our office but could not afford the gas ($4.00 per gallon at the time) because I know the ethics attorneys are held to and these people need to be properly diagnosed. That being said and without bashing anyone..... If someone is in jepordy of losing their home trying to save $1,000 makes absolutly no sense at all. If you are miss diagnosed it could cost you much more than a few thousand dollars!

Loved the Bantering back and forth!  Very informative!

I have to completely agree with you Greg!

 These are links to Ron Rodis affiliated websites:

 http://americaslawgroup.reachlocal.net/rl/

 http://rodislawgroup.com/aboutus.html

 https://www.taxreliefasap.com/Default.aspx   (take a look at the BBB rating at page bottom)

another rodis link

http://compassleads.com/Contact.aspx

I am having my mortgage modified by an attorney-based loan modification company in Rancho Mirage. They charge for the service as a retainer to a real estate attorney. What are the rules surrounding this type of business as structured?

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE

While there are exceptions, lawyers may charge up front fees for services, even to those in foreclosure. That is how criminal defense is usuall handled - lawyers feel it is best to get the money while the client is still not in jail. Likewise, when dealing with people who are at their worst financial downpoint, payment just has to be accepted up front - cold as it seems, a lawyer does not want to behind all the other creditors after performing services. That said, fees must be reasonable (that is the rule) so whatever fee is charged by a lawyer, it has to reflect what work is being done.

Also, a law firm should take into account the reality that clients in financial distress have limited funds so prices should be reasonable and geared to what a client can actually afford - that is not only fair but good business sense.

- Paul

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

In general, the following are RED FLAGS (as in Warning Signs):

1. Getting quoted SPECIFIC NUMBERS. No one can know to the dollar what kind of loan mod a borrower will get before the process is started. Real property is unique. Borrowers are each different. The lenders have one set of rules today and will probably have a different set of rules next week.

2. MONEY BACK GUARANTEES on outcomes by law firms should be few and far between, as a law firm should be able to provide more than just loan modification services. A law firm should be able to give a client many options and EDUCATE the client about those options (i.e., loan modification, short sale, deed in lieu, short payoff, bankruptcy, litigation, foreclosure rules, unlawful detainer actions, notices to quit, deficiency judgments, etc.) so that the client can make an INFORMED decision on how to proceed. What if the modification does not work out? Now what? That's when a client really needs a lawyer!

3. WONKY PAPERWORK is not always the samurai sword that will kill a lender. De minimus violations used to get some great results - that is, back in the days of homes being worth what was owed. Remember how it went back then? Borrowers had a thing called "equity." Great law suits that really help when a home is under water by hundreds of thousands of dollars are few and far between. "Posturing" is how lawyers refer to the act of threatening law suits when there is really not much merit or not enough damages to merit a law suit. Clients love lawyers who posture, as that makes great drama. When a good lawyer has a client with a truly great case, he or she may send ONE warning letter asking for settlement as it might bring resolution more efficiently. Then, if the other party does not comply, just file the case.

- Paul

In the month of January 09 against my better wishes, my wife contacted The Federal Loan Modification Fake Scam Business to see about getting help for our Mortgage problems. I had recently lost my job as a Counselor due to the facility where I was working at closed down. On 19 Jan 09 my wife paid a sum of $500.00 (a 1/2 payment) that was drawn directly from her bank account. On 3 Feb 09 a second withdrawal from wife account of $500.00 (other 1/2 of payment = $1000.00) was taken before they would start allegedly doing any work. All the while we were waiting for our Mortgage Company to be contacted in order to work out our Mortgage Problems. Only 1 phone was stated to have been made by Federal Loan Modification. We were never contacted even though Federal Loan Modification had both of our phone numbers. After a long period of not hearing from anyone from Federal Loan Modification, my wife contacted and talked with a female that told her nothing could be done to help us and that we could speak with a Jewell McDonald. When my wife finally spoke with a Jewell McDonald our house was sold on the court steps the next day. Jewell McDonald told my wife that we would receive a full refund. We were told that a Brian Sackett would handle all our needs to make sure we got our $1000.00 dollars back. This is the email I received from Brian Sackett: Dear Mr Hemmans:
 
Please sign and return as quickly as possible. I'm sorry for the delay in your refund, but trust that we are doing everything we can to expedite yours and all refunds. We ask and hope for your patience in this matter and you may reach me at the number below to request a status.
 
Thanks,
Brian K Sackett
(877) 333-6631 (ext 5972)
(949) 333-5771 (fax)

That same day I paid around $14.00 to have all our information fax that they stated that they needed but should have had already. I was told by Brian Sackett that they would send our payment in one of 2 ways, either overnight (Federal Express) and that they would call the day before to be delivered or they would mail a check to us and call us to inform us that the check had been mailed. I asked Brian Sackett since $1000.00 had been taken from my wife bank account in 2 payments, why could they not redeposit our money? Brian Sackett stated if they were to send our money back in that way, it would take 4-5 business days for the transfer to be made to her account. I contacted Brian Sackett several days later to fairly give them time to process our information. I called Brian Sackett that Thursday and he stated he did not know what I was talking about and could not recall. I told Brian Sackett we were on speaker phone the whole time I was trying to fax our information from Mail Box Etc., we had a fax receipt and how could he not remember that we had multiple problems through Federal Loan Modification for our fax to finally make it through their efax system. Brian Sackett stated he got the fax through a fellow female employee. After a extended period of time, Brian Sackett stated he had found our information. This is another email I received from Brian Sackett (Good Morning Mr. Hemmans:
 
As of Friday 3-13-09, I am no longer in that department. Please stay in contact with Michelle Morrow at (949) 333-5770 as it relates to the status of your refund. I wish you and your family well in your future endeavors and hope that I was at least somewhat infuential in resolving your matter with us. It was a pleasure to serve you.
 
Thanks again,
 
Brian

Brian Sackett had stated it would take 30 days then 45 days then 30 days to receive our refund and not to call because they had to complete their process. Also Brian Sackett pleaded with me not to report Federal Loan Modification because they had already received 25 complaints against them and could not afford anymore. Brian Sackett stated that we would receive our money back ($1000.00) and that we need not worry about filing a complaint. My wife and I waited until 10 Apr 09 to receive our refund. Why? Michelle Morrow who Brian Sackett said was in charge of our refund promised us that we would receive our check refund of $1000.00 by then. On 10 Apr 09, no check came. I tried to call Michelle Morrow for a month, no contact, numerous messages were left by me, I called Customer Service, no answer or return phone calls. But ironically when I called intake for business, they readily answered the phones. I would call intake for business to try and make contact with anybody. I left several messages for a Bill Antz (the owner), no return phone calls. I called intake for business again and asked them, "How are you taking incoming business and I have seen online that numerous people have filed complaints against you?" That Friday night a mysterious person claiming to be a concerned staff who gave his name as Allen Whit called stated we would get our money back. When I finally contacted Michelle Morrow, she stated "NO ONE WILL BE GETTING ANY REFUNDS AND OUR LAWYERS WILL BE IN CONTACT WITH YOU". Then Michelle Morrow hung up the phone on me, I expressed this blatant disregard, lie and scam to this person named Allen Whit. Allen Whit told me and my wife that he would be in contact with us by next week. I did not hear back from a Allen Whit and when I called, they stated there was no Allen Whit working for the Department? I called back several days later to ask to speak to anyone named Allen. I spoke with someone named Allen that stated he had never spoken to me before but that he would turn me over to a guy named George who out of all the people he knew, would get our negative situation straight. I never heard back from anyone, nor a person named George.
It is now 27 Apr 09, we have not received our refund, can not make contact with anyone, receive a phone call back, etc.
We have been scammed, our money taken and not shown any respect that even animals deserve.
I am a Army Veteran, is there anyone in Government that can help us, or media or a lawyer or something or someone?
I am praying that God will help us.
Sincerely
William

p.s. I could say much more the heartache these nasty people have put us through, but I could write a Book on that and am summing up the best way I can, in the allotted space I have...

Here in NY Loan mods are ever expanding. I was on this one website www.wehelpwithyourloan.com and was interested in modifying my current loan. After speaking with the individuals there I found that I would be better off throwing my money out the window then handing it over to them. Be careful. Sometimes you would be better off making your own deals with you own bank. FYI, be careful.

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

At the risk of repeating myself...

There are several ways to modify one's loan:

1. DO IT YERSELF - contact your lender, make all the calls, send all the faxes, crunch all the numbers, draft your hardship letter. If you've got the time, patience, and know-how, no problem. There are plenty of informative websites, and lenders are more willing to help borrowers than they used to be. Of course, you can change your own spark plus, draft your own will, cut your own hair, etc., but sometimes hiring someone else with more experience might be smarter and cheaper in the long run.

2. GO TO A NON-PROFIT - They do not charge, so you get experienced help and do not have to pay. However, non-profit does not always mean really good at what they promise to do. You still have to do your research on which non-profits to use. Some are really really good, some... not so much.

3. FORK OVER MONEY TO SOME LOAN MOD SHOP - Learn to keep your fingers crossed, get ready to call them every day for updates and to call your lender to make sure that they are really contacting your lender. Then scour the Internet for bad words on them, and feel that knot in your stomach as you see their name pop up on Google associated with the word scam or fraud.

4. HIRE A LAWYER - Yes, I am a bit biased here, in case you did not catch my delicately nuanced style of writing. A lawyer should be able to offer more than shot at a loan mod. A lawyer is a counselor because he or she can and should counsel you on your options, provide an objective assessment of your situation and give you a dose of reality about what options you have. If a loan mod is your informed goal, then the lawyer should be able to help you try to achieve that goal. If a bankruptcy is your informed goal then then lawyer should be able to help you try to achieve that goal. If you try for one goal, but fail, the lawyer should be ready to offer help on Plan B.

IN CONCLUSION: When you hire someone else, no matter who or what, that does not mean you get to sit on your butt and do nothing. You still need to stay on that person, entity, or lawyer. No one will care about your home as much as you. At the end of the day, they get to go to their home (unless they have the same problems - and that is not a joke - lawyers and real estate professionals are not immune from toxic loans and many really do share their clients' problems).

- Paul 

I hired Rodis back in January.  Long story short, they have a GREAT SCAM going.  I gave them ample time to render services I paid for, but NOTHING was ever done.  I did get a prompt call from them when I called to get my money back.  They are returning all but $800 "for hours spent on my case."  I have no proof they spent a single minute on my case other than the phone calls I made and actually talked to a human.  But I spent more time on hold than actually speaking to someone.  If they kept all but $800 from everyone displeased, they'd still be making a killing.  My advice- save your money and call your finance company directly.  I did that, and they are more than willing to work with me.  They are into COLLECTING not SELLING.

Like I have said in prior comments.  Rodis Law Group is not worthy of your business.

You can get all your money back if you haven't already signed a document saying you are "Made Whole."  If they spent time on defrauding you of your money, that doesn't count as time for what they were paid to do.

They are unprofessional/unethical (once you sign the retainer and they have your money).              An attorney who still worked for them even said that "1 out of 40 cases is actually resolved, and most employees are trying to find another job."

See the California Bar website: Attorney Complaint area.  All victims should file complaints.  His bar record is spotless.  It shouldn't be.

A victim

 Rodi's is now America's law Group with a new attorney who has a year of practice under his belt. They have CONVERTED THE RODI's LAW GROUP office over to AMERICA'S LAW GROUP AND HIRE so called managers as loan mod reps. Bottom line is most of the attorneys or loan mod shops thought it was as easy as 123 to get mods done. Not so! The Feldman Law Center as a few others has been providing this service for a year now and can tell you first hand "it ain't what it seems" BK and Debt Settlement are a stroll in the park next to MODS. I'm sure Rodi's and others have found out the hard way as we did. The truth is Feldman Law Center has MODS down to a fine science and the results to prove it. We currently utilize a auto underwriting software that offers a "soup to nuts" solution for the loan modification industry. Our lender relationships have developed a streamline process that is getting fast results. Did you know there's ONLY 11 people in the CW loan mod department in Texas....

P.S. Feldman Law Center just negotiated a $125,000 pricipal balance reduction with GMAC into a reverse mortgage  with MET LIFE for a H.B. lady who had a trustee sale date set. Just out of curiosity.... Are we the first?

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

Just making an announcement here... my firm is getting quite a number of potential clients calling us because they have been scammed by someone who promised a loan modification. While I'm not usually one to agree with the news reports, as the media likes to create drama... there is an epidemic of scumbagitis raging throughout Southern California's former real estate professionals whereby the afflicted person becomes an immoral predator who fleeces vulnerable homeowners out of their last dollar and then laughs while the homeowners lose their homes.

Fortunately, the DRE, the State Bar, and many other governmental and quasi governmental agencies are doing what they can to spread the word and go after these criminal types. As a result our practice has now become two step: (1) Get the money back from the scumbags, or sue them if they refuse to hand it over nicely... and (2) doing the loan modification if that is what was needed, or doing a bankruptcy, or short sale, or litigating, all depending on what the client really needed to begin with.

- Paul

Is anyone interested in a class action lawsuit against Rodis Law Group?

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

I've been fielding a lot of questions about loan modification pricing and how much someone should pay for this service. Well, let's look at pricing for attorneys, as that is really the only one I can address with true insight from really being there.

Nathan and I have been doing mortgage law since 2006, and I think it was early in 2007 that we learned banks would modify a loan without being slammed with a law suit. It was due to the crash. Banks just wanted the choice of losing the least amount of money. The choice was lose X by foreclosing on an upside down home or losing Y by modifying the loan.

We figured a loan modification should only take a couple hours... how hard could it be? We had dealt with the lenders and their attorneys on many cases, and had been negotiating with them already, so we figured we could easily get a "loan mod" on an upside down property. With that mind set, we offered FREE loan audits and only charged $500.00 to modify a loan. Now, many of you are already seeing the serious financial blunder we made. But before you fault us too much, realize we only had a small number of people coming to us for loan mods, and we were really looking for litigation cases. So we took ten or so clients at this low low fee... and we lost our shirts from the work involved.

We then raised the price, and over the years have changed the price many times. Our changes are based on the actual amount of work required and the expenses we incur doing the work. We now have seven attorneys and a staff of non-attorneys which make us better and more efficient. However, the price has gone up considerable from the days when we did not have a clue to the hours and staff required to do this area well.

We charge a flat fee, because our clients are in serious financial hardships and need to know how much they will pay. If we quoted them an hourly rate, they would have no idea how much because some take longer than others. We have done so many now, we can fix a price. This means we make good money on some and lose a little on others, but our clients know exactly how much they are going to pay us.

Another factor we needed to consider was the loan amount. Now, some readers are already saying, "Nice try, Molinaro, a hundred grand loan is no more work than a million dollar baby." To which I say right you are... and wrong too, Buckaroo. Yes, in that the actual arguing with the bank is the same, but no in that people with million dollar loans have more complex financial situations which require a lot of work to number crunch. They are not usually W-2 wage earners. They have their own business, complex tax returns, investment accounts, and several other properties. So, there is more work.

And for those that wanted just the numbers, and read the above as blah blah blah... three grand to five grand is the range here in So Cal. We are at the low low end of the range, and that is primarily because we handle volume and do it efficiently. We also handle many other matters like litigation, bankruptcy, estate planning, short sales, etc. so that we are not depending only on loan mods for money.

- Paul

Well, our last comments sure kicked up a storm.  In response to the Feldman lie that they had nothing to do with Fed Mod, here is the January 5, 2009 press release Feldman issued prooving it was their program from the very beginning (including Federal Loan Modification Center):

If you go to the end of the press release, you'll see the signature block we wrote about above. Also, look at the keyword tags Feldman used to get the press release out into the PR Wire. And you Feldman boys, don't bother taking it down we have screen shots galore.

By thefeldmanlawcenter United States of America

Contact publisher via email

Business: Finance January 5, 2009

The Feldman Law Center, a loan modification attorney offers a new loan modification program called the Federal Loan Modification Program.

For_Immediate_Release:

United States of America (Press Release) January 5, 2009 --

Mortgage rates may be low but getting approved for a low fixed rate is only for "good" borrowers with conventional mortgages. Trying to refinance out of that adjustable rate or high fixed rate sounds good but is a lot harder when you try and get approved. A large percentage of homeowners qualified for their initial mortgage based on stated income and lower credit score requirements. Go to a lender now with the same deal and you will be most likely be denied.

These denials along with the growing debt homeowners are facing is going to result in more foreclosures in 2009. Over 1 million new foreclosures are estimated in 2009. Many of those can be stopped with a loan modification by a loan modification attorney. Homeowners facing overwhelming debt due to a financial hardship including temporary job loss, lower income, health issues and more can quality for a loan modification.

The Feldman Law Center, a loan modification attorney offers a new loan modification program called the Federal Loan Modification Program. The service streamlines the loan modification process giving homeowners relief immediately. The Feldman Law Center is a veteran in the loan modification industry but this new program was designed to help homeowners now when they need it. The program is in direct response to the lag in government assistance that takes to long to help the homeowner.

Greg Feldman with Feldman Law Center said "Homeowners were calling in by the dozens each week and asking about government bailout and government loan modification programs. They were days or weeks away from losing their home and needed help now. The government is doing some great things to help homeowners, but these homeowners needed help now."

The new Federal Loan Modification Program is going to allow homeowners to submit their information to a loan modification attorney and know right away if their loan can be modified. There is little paperwork or requirements from the homeowner. The loan modification team starts negotiating the mortgage with the current lender within 24 hours of obtaining all the required items from the homeowner. There is direct communication between Feldman Law Center and the homeowner to assure both parties are aware of the loan modification status at anytime. The Feldman Law Center has worked hard to perfect the negotiation progress and their experience and relationships allow them to obtain loan modifications that exceed homeowners expectations time after time.
source: FPR

If you are a homeowner facing foreclosure due to a financial hardship then please contact The Feldman Law Center directly. Reference the Federal Loan Modification Program code FEDMOD.

Feldman Law Center
The Federal Loan Modification Program | Program Code: FEDMOD
http://www.feldmanlawcenter.com
27201 Puerta Real #200
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
1-800-527-8497

For more information:

27201 Puerta Real #200 Mission Viejo, CA 92691 1-800-527-8497

Keywords:

feldman law center , federal loan modification , fed mod , fedmod , loan modification , loan mod

See link: http://www.free-press-release.com/news/200901/1231214382.html

Kevin Weeks

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

Another update... the "ol' threatening lawyer letters" are getting less effective... we've been litigating against loan mod scammers as our demand for refund letters threatening litigation if no refund are getting less effective... this might be a sign that the scammers are running out of money as they would usually just refund when threatened so that they could continue business, or it may be a sign that they are getting hit with lots of "lawyer letters" in which case they can't afford the refunds and will soon be run out business when hit with multiple suits. Or maybe my bark was starting to look worse than my bite... no problem, my firm will just make a few examples of bite.

One of the problems with being scammed out of only a few grand is that the cost of litigating can be much more than a few grand. Fortunately, California has been adding some teeth to the anti-loan mod scam laws such as tripple damages plus attorneys fees. This means when a scammer takes three grand, the actual losses he or she can face could easily be tens of thousands of dollars.

We've also been talking to the California DRE who is interested in the complaints and subsequent filings of our cases against licensed brokers and agents.

If you've been scammed by one of these "loan mod shops," contact all the state/governmental agencies to make a complaint... then hire a local lawyer. There is help out there.

- Paul

Paul,

Aren't you involved with LoanSafe?  I mean, isn't your company listed on LoanSafe.org?  There is a lot of very bad press out there about LoanSafe.  So, why would you subject yourself to that by being affiliated with this company?

I'm confused; maybe I have the wrong Paul and Nathan.  You guys are Fransen & Molinaro, right?  In Corona.  So, are you adding on to your services by offering to sue loan modification scams or switching your whole business model?  In other words, are you still going to be doing loan modifications?

Rochelle

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

Well, let's see... there is plenty of rumor... plenty of libel and slander... plenty of misinformation, so I guess it's a fair question that should be answered. Nathan and I are Nathan Fransen and Paul J. Molinaro of The Law Offices of Fransen & Molinaro, LLP.

THIS BLOG - This is Nathan's blog, on which he can do what he wants, delete who he wants, post what he wants, etc.

LOANSAFE - Loansafe and all its associated sites as well as the owner of that company and any of its employees are no more than marketers for Fransen & Molinaro, LLP. They provide web design, banner ads, and search engine optimization for us. They have filmed commercials for us, done video for us. They do our advertising in whatever manner we want. Nothing more. Our staff of attorneys and others do our law firm work, meet with potential clients, sign up clients, litigate, file BK, modify loans, do complex estate planning, etc.

As to why we affiliate with any particular business entity, we hire firms to provide services which we feel are worth the price for the caliber of work we need. We have a good internet phone service provider. We have a good private investigation firm. We do not get into the personal goings on of our independent vendors. We are businesspeople and keep our relationships limited to business.

LOAN MOD BUSINESS - We have been practicing mortgage law since BEFORE loan modifications were a household term. We did not jump on the bandwagon. We litigate. We file BK. We handle just about all matters involving people who can't pay their bills. We provide loan modification services as part of the many services we offer. We try to provide whatever services our clients need, and our clients newest need is to get money back from loan mod scammers. Thus, we have added that area to our practice. We keep our business model pretty simple. "Provide legal services to those in debt."

As the loan modification field dries up (people are getting better at going directly to their banks, non-profits are getting more efficient, the financial picture of our country improves, etc.) we may do less loan modifications and more of something else... people are always going to have money problems... and our plan is to provide help for those problems.

- Paul

Hello All

We hired RODIS LAW GROUP January 29, 2009

To date we have a case worker, also JESSICA TAGLE

She's been pretty good at getting back to us.  Not perfect, but then we all must realize that these Attorney's are SWAMPED.

There communications are slack and not good at all.. but we are trying to be "patient"

We WERE TOLD it would take 3 - 6 months.  It has been 3.

Our email now to JESSICA TAGLE is not working.... so we have left a voice mail for another gentleman.  It is true that there seems to be many case workers.  Perhaps ours has been shifted to someone else.. we are not sure at this time, as we only called today/emailed today to find this out.

We have left them a voice message... and will call again tomorrow

My husband and I actually drove to California to speak to them directly-they seemed very professional and on the up and up.  We let them know that they got all our savings.. it was our last dime!

We were lucky in that THE MOMENT we were in trouble with our MORTGAGE due to my husbands decreased wages, we seeked the help immediately.  We were no where near foreclosure.  So hopefully that has saved us.  We don't know yet. At Rodis, they did let a friend of ours know that they waited TOO LONG as they were almost already in foreclosure at that time. 

We will keep everyone posted on here regarding our progress

and just to note.. we also are in contact with a REPORTER from NEW YORK on this issue!

So anything and EVERYTHING will be honestly said and done to the best of our knowledge.. and given to this Reporter....!

( ;

Paul,

Thank you for your respectful response and good information.  I didn't realize that LoanSafe was a marketing company, because I've read that they do loan mods too which I thought would be weird if that's what you do.

Anyway, thanks for clearing that up.  Just out of curiosity, what do you project for the next six months as far as the market to start loan mod businesses.  My boyfriend wants to start one and he's a real estate broker but it seems like the business is so competitive and brutal.  What do you think?

He said maybe I could do a little research for him.  Also, thanks for providing a forum for information.

Rochelle

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

Well, I am pretty biased, so take my opinion for nothing more than... "my opinion." I would like to see the field limited to attorneys. The reason being that not everyone who thinks they need loan modification services really "needs" a loan modification. Some would be better suited through BK, some would be better suited through litigation, some can do it on their own and just pay for an hour of attorney time to go over the paperwork or answer some questions. Some can do just fine with a non-profit service provider.

My firm can make money by providing any of a number of services. We do not need to slam someone into a shot at a loan mod whether they need it or qualify or not. I also have no problem telling people they do not need my firm's services.

- Paul

Paul:  What your're saying makes sense because I was reading this book I got at the library caled "The Foreclosure Survival Guide" and it was published in Sept '08 and it talks about how sometimes what is necessary is to go to court or threaten to take the lender to couert and how could a broker do that?  A broker can't represent a client in court and there's only so much threatening a broker can do and I'm sure the banks have heard it all.

This is very interesting-Im learning a lot here - my bf still wants to start the biz but I agree that being an attorney is advantage because sometimes all a person needs to stop their BS is to get a lawsuit filed against them.  Maybe he should try to get a job working with an attorney so that he has all possible ways of handling the different issues involved.  What do you think about that?

I hope I'm not taking too much of your time by asking all these question and I hoep you'll tell me if I am.  Thanks very much.

Rochelle

NO LEGAL ADVICE HERE - JUST GENERAL INFORMATION - ANY SIMILARITIES TO ANYONE'S ACTUAL SITUATION IS JUST ONE HECK OF A COINCIDENCE.

Lawsuits, while we attorneys love them, are not always the answer to getting a loan modified. What I am saying is that an attorney has a full range of services to offer a distressed homeowner. My firm does not threaten lawsuits without fully intending to litigate... we more or less warn a defendant that a law suit is about to be filed and if they want to stop it, they need to settle. We are very selective in the cases we file, and we do not threaten unless we have already done the work to make sure we want to go to court.

Also, to be clear, when a person cannot afford their home, an attorney can guide him or her and counsel him or her them as the home goes to sale. Some clients find it very comforting to have a lawyer in their corner to tell them how the process works and what each notice means. No one but attorneys are qualified to counsel clients through the legal system.

And, at the risk of repeating myself, when a loan mod is not really in the best interest of my client, my firm has the skills and resources to provide other legal help. That is why people need attorneys when faced with such serious problems.

- Paul

This is a total scam.  Citimortgage, with whom my mortgage is financed, is advertising a Homeowners Assistance program for individuals experiencing financial hardship.  They claim in tough times it seems that no one wants to help, but they do.  BULL!!!

I told them that I'm not making as much money with my new job and even though I'm not upside down in my house or behind on payments, I was denied for having too much debt to income.  DUH!!  Why else wold I be applying.

The Citimortgage rep. of course felt I qualified and gladly took my non-refundable $100 fee.  He says he's really busy every day taking applicants information over the phone.  I bet!  At this rate Citimortgage can help pay back that Tarp money in no time.

Anyone who needs free consultation about the modification programs please email me any time at masmar@fsmichigan

Mr Nathan

I hope that you can give me some advise. I live in Texas and HIRED WHAT IS NOW America's law group (they are affiliated with Rodis). i GAVE THEN THE FIRST INITIAL PAYMENT OF 1166.67 OUT OF 3 PAYMENTS. IT HAS BEEN A WHOLE WEEK LATER AND i HAVE TRIED CALLING THEM BUT NO ONE ANSWERS. i HAVE LEFT MESSAGES AFTER messages..is there any thing I can do if I want to cancel my agreement with them and get my money back. I was dealing with two intake officers (Chris J Jacobson AND Mrs. Aguilar) I have received some paper work signed by Mr chavarela but that's about it. I am not in danger of losing my house sine I'm only one month behind but with a 10% apr we did want a mod. to bring down our apr. please if there is any thing you can tell please do.TO the Rest of you NO NO NO NO No do not work with this people. check out baddizfiners

Well everybody knows nothing is gauranteed. You guys need to do your research on any company that you choose. Loan Modification, or Attorney.... Of course Nathan is going to say use an attorney, but from what I recall lawyers are just as bad as anybody else. To say that every lawyer can do a loan mod is rediculous... You shouldn't advertise that Nathan!!!!!!! Loan modification companies who are well established already, should have realtor lawyers within its company.... Most of the modification companies have realtors for short sales, who are under brokers, who already have lawyers.... this is how it works.... So "Nathan" don't just advertise lawyers, and say they all can do it. It takes a full realter firm to do a loan mod. Now I m sure you were shown how to negotiate with the banks and you now know how to do it. But be a little more specific when you give your advise....

H8King,

I know an attorney has his bar license on the line and would never use "It takes a full realter firm to do a loan mod."as a sentence. Also, you misspelled Realtor :)

Trust me everyone, use an attorney or at least someone who can spell properly!

Please Help! Combat Veteran Scammed by Rodis

Rodis claims another victim! In January '09, I contacted Rodis about my situation and explained to them after 6 months my bank had agreed to modify my loan but for only a three year period. The representative assured me they could do better and would go after the principle. I paid the $3500 which would have been better to flush down the toilet. I began to worry after three other law firms contacted me after-the-fact stating their firms could not do anything already having a modification.   For five months we have dealt with the same as all others that are complaining; no to little communication, answering machines, not returning calls, nor e-mails. The few times I did speak to my case manager, she assured me they were working on it and waiting for an answer from my bank. At about the four month point, she wanted us to submit all of my financial data again and stated she was working with the girl whom originally modified my loan. This went on for a few weeks at which point I was calling every day and got an e-mail from my case manager stating that the woman from my bank had a deal on the table and she was waiting for her to return from vacation. Not being able to take it anymore, I contacted this person from my bank and she was shocked. She had told me that Rodis was never in touch with her and felt that I had been scammed. My bank representative even sent Rodis an e-mail stating that they had never contacted her and wanted to know what was going on. At that point, my e-mail was blocked from my case manager and I was assigned to someone else.   After being so disgusted with the situation, I posted what had happened on two complaint forums. I began to call everyday demanding to speak to someone about getting my money back. In a previous conversation with the director, he had told me since I was in modification if they were unable to do anything I would be refunded. I contacted a financial representative at Rodis and he told me I would be getting back $625 being billed at a rate of $350/hour for the work they had done. It was about this time that the director began to call leaving messages to return his call. During our conversation he had said to me that if I removed the two postings online, my refund would be negotiated. He had told me it was slanderous and could could effect business. Nothing I have said is slanderous...only the truth. I will let all of you be the judge. I've served my country for 17 years while having three combat tours of duty. I was forced to move by the military and have a house that is worth half what I owe on it. I trusted Rodis to help my family and I and...well...above is what we got!   If there is anyone out there that can help myself and others please come forward. If anyone wants to joint together with our stories please contact me.   Tom   E-mail: taz1518@gmail.com

To JoPal, Tom and others who are clients of Rodis Law Group or America's Law Group,

Your frustration is understandable however you are misdirecting your anger.

Due to a small handful of former, disgruntled employees, the law firms of Rodis LG and America's LG have been shut down by the FTC since May 28th, 2009.  The shutdown has nothing to do with consumer issues as it was 100% initiated and caused by these former employees.  Their complaints also had nothing to do with consumer issues and all revolved around their greed... yes, all they wanted was more money!  They are charging that they are owed overtime and whatever else and have a vendetta against the companies for refusing to pay and cave in to their financial demands.

Tom, I understand your refund was arranged however the FTC's representatives prevented it from being paid out to you, and all other payments to anybody for anything, from being sent out.  The law firms have been unable to send out a check since Thursday, the 28th of May.

In addition, per the FTC's representatives, the 2 law firms and staff have been prevented from even answering their phones!  Nobody can even call back a client, no matter how many times that client may have sent in emails or left messages, often begging to just be advised of the status of their case.  The FTC's representatives have prohibited any staff member from contacting any clients.

The only work being allowed to continue is for staff members to continue to work with the banks to postpone home sale dates.  On all other cases where no work or contact with clients is permitted, staff members have literally been in tears over their inability to contact clients and continue working on their cases.

The 2 attorneys themselves have only within the past few days been able to start talking with a handful of clients.  Even this was only obtained with the help of a Judge's intervention!

The reality is that prior to Thursday, the 28th of May, tremendous benefits were being accomplished on behalf of clients.  The customer service was rapidly improving and for unhappy clients, refunds were given as arranged.  The law firm America's Law Group, which unlike the rumors, is it's own separate and distinct law firm, even has a written policy of refunding fees to any client for which it is unable to obtain a loan workout. (google: Homeowner's Benefit Program) Loan workouts were obtained for clients every day and while this is easy to overlook as only the unhappy people post in these blogs/internet sites, there are actually hundreds of very happy clients of Rodis and America's Law Groups for whom loan workouts were obtained.

For anybody P.O.'d about Rodis/America's not answering the phone, getting back to you, giving you a refund or getting you an update on your case... and this has been going on for close to 2 weeks now, feel free to complain to whomever you want to complain to but your complaint should really be a demand for the staff of these 2 law firms to be able to answer their phones and email or call you back. 

The FTC has seized the assets of Rodis Law Group/America's Law Group and suspended their operations. Official FTC victims hotline regarding this matter  888-308-0934 clearly states that the companies were shut down for charging large fees and while  actually performing very few loan mods. This is not a case for a legitimate company being closed by false accusations of disgruntled employees. Stay clear of this organization, it has reformed and is operating under another location in Newport Beach.

Rodis & Associates in Newport Beach, California (ca)

Name: Rodis & Associates
Street: 3 Upper Newport Plz
Newport Beach, ca 92660-2630
Phone: (949) 660-8090

Who ever F.R.E. is...sounds like they are trying to do damage control for a fraudulent company(s) with unethical, deceptive practices who are finally being exposed and confronted for illegal activity by the Federal Government.  (The court has no outcome at this point). 

Its about time these "law groups" employees were literally in tears. Boo F N Hoo. Guilt Sucks doesn't it? 

The shut down has everything to do with consumer issues and the government (FTC) has a filed a lawsuit against Rodis Law, Americas Law, Financial Group for FALSELY promising modifications, where many have lost their homes and $$$ etc.  If you haven't lost your home yet due to their lies, contact 1-888-995-HOPE.  iF YOU FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE FTC AT 888-308-0934, at least your name and information will be on record.  Hopefully we victims can recover something.  There are many of us.  My other hope is that Ron Rodis and possibly others involved lose their bar licenses or some other punishments.  File a complaint with the California Bar (download an attorney complaint form from the website, explain what he did to you and mail it in.  Mr. Rodis must be accountable).  I know you have other concerns.  If you can, save your house first, then go to the California Bar.  Tax Relief ASAP is also part of the questionable entities that victimized me, and Ron Rodis is part of that too.  I'm so glad that Mr. Rodis may finally get some of what he has done to people.  Sleepless nights...money problems..hopefully homelessness!  Good luck to all victims.

I would love to get in with ALL victims (most attorneys need million + dollar lawsuits to get involved in the percentage they can get from it) which means all victims need to sign up for a Class Action Lawsuit and we could recover money/punitive damages.
I was taken by both Tax Relief ASAP and Rodis Law
They (Rodis) even took money from my bank account illegally from information given to the "seperate company," Tax ASAPs records before I signed anything with Rodis Law.
I lost $4900 (ASAP) and 2760.97 from retainer fees and bank and credit card fees since they took money illegally before it was available in my bank, and then wouldn't return it to me. Ron Rodis hired an attorney, Nancy Eng to represent him agaisnt me. I have proof of all email correspondence and bank records. They said I threatened them with blackmail and extortion and stop communicating with me. He would return my Rodis $ if I signed a document saying I was made whole but I wouldn't be able to pursue Rodis on the Tax ASAP end so I refused to sign.
Thats blackmail. Lets find a way to share email contact info and get an attorney to represent us. The more $, the more likely we can get an attorney interested in representing us with no advance cost just a percentage of what is awarded in a suit. kbflinn@msn.com

kevin please count me in. as to f.r.e. please do us all  a favor and dont try to cover up for this company. have you been had for that much money? i dont know where you are from but i am from the lower rio grande valley here we get paid 6.75 hr. so 1166.67 is a whole lot of money. and a whole lot of sacrafices to do. especially when you have kids.you must be getting paid apretty penny for your comments,but you now i pray that no one ever does to you what your prescious companey did to the rest of us. if i could i would take them for all they made me go thru. the headachs, the sadness, late fees, the exyensions(forbarence) the gas, the use of my viachel, my time that i had to use to close my accounts,drive to make a police report, to the bank and there for the imbaressment i had to take ro explain to them why  i could not pay that months bill. so please unless you have been in our shoes  dont even go there.

It's kind of strange, and a sad commentary on humanity when negativity, rumormongering, and outright malicious lies are the order of the day.

When the truth about a situation is presented in a straight forward and factual way, and the response is to shoot the messenger, it doesn't say much good about the people doing the shooting.

As this blog is an informational blog, and it appears to be run by some good guys presenting factual information, I think I have as much a right to post here as anybody else.

For those of you thinking about a class action lawsuit, good luck.  You obviously don't know much about the realities of this situation or class action lawsuits CAL).  Rather than my educating you on the realities of all this, go spend your time in front of an attorney and get an education on the realities of a CAL.  Then contact the FTC and find out how much money in assets is going to be left over after the receivers take their chunk at $30,000 per day for auditing and watching over the business for the past 2 weeks. Let's see... that will come to roughly $400,000.  Then the vendors, landlord, etc. being paid. After everybody in line before you... is paid... and then the attorneys take their chunk... well, those of you with any smarts at all know the end result.  For those of you like Kevin, I'll spell it out.  In this specific situation, as no money has gone into the firms since May 27th,  there's only been all this money going out... there would actually be nothing left.

Personally, I could care less about a CAL but I have to question the sanity of anybody following somebody like a Kevin above, who has publicly admitted he doesn't pay his taxes... (otherwise he wouldn't have been a Tax Relief client) and doesn't pay his mortgage either.  Obviously not a very bright fellow.

From other sites, I've already passed on to those who have contacted me, information on how they can best proceed on their own with a loan modification for their specific cases.  If anybody has an intelligent comment or question about this situation, if I can, I'll be happy to answer it.

My email address is: urada09@yahoo.com

Sincerely,

John

(F.R.E. I thought it was obvious = Former Rodis Employee)

PS: anybody advocating the free services, Hope Now, or whatever, has probably not actually used them to get a loan modification done.  They are generally worthless unless you want vague information and/or counseling on your household finances.  You know, something really helpful like: cut out some of your expenses so you're not spending more than you make.

One last little piece of advice for anybody facing financial hardship... cut off your cable bill.  Instead of spending 6 of your waking (?) hours in front of the TV, zoning out every day... go do something productive.  I am constantly amazed at the number of cases I see where people hardly have 2 nickels to rub together yet they're paying $90-$120 every month for cable service... only in America.

John,

Most excellent post thank you - especially the part about cutting off the cable!

Overall though - people probably feel better if they are doing something, even if it is likely to be unproductive. The Rodis victims have been badly taken and if Kevin is willing to try and take up the cause I say good for him. So long as it won't cost anyone anything other than perhaps a litle more false hope. 

So agian - your post is most excellent. Though it might be "fun" to tell your friends you're going to take these guys to the cleaners it would be just as well to expect that in reality, you're probably not.

If someone read my comments to Dionne above I stated "I don't know how it works with the FTC". 

A class action may not work. I don't really know.  That's what attorneys are for, unless they morally chose to create more victims.

Being insulted for using, what turns out to be a fraudulent company that some chose to and continue to work at...interesting morals.  I didn't decide to run a company, or choose to work at one that strives to rip people off.  That said...

I may not be the brightest guy for listening to a Rodis employee when he said "it would help you" since your behind on your mortgage and struggling to pay your bills (since you lost alot of business in part due to the economy) "to not pay your mortgage".  I paid for proper legal advise and help.  It was not given. I did get unethical, greed filled intentions though.

I didn't want to get behind on taxes, but life isn't always full of easy choices, like the well being of your children over other costs.  The government knows this.  Thats why they sometimes help people.  Also why companies exist to help those people for a monetary price too.  But then, some companies and employees choose to decieve and hurt people instead.

I do hope though, that enough people report Ron P. Rodis to the Ca. Bar., the Attorney General, the FTC and maybe if we don't recover our money (most likely), then we can recover a sense of justice in our legal system.  I have served in the military, and paid my taxes all my life, until I had tough financial choices to make, and I will do what I should in paying in the future. Ironically I could have paid the money I spent to Tax ASAP to the IRS and owed much less. 

The "small handful of former, disgruntled employees" probably got screwed as well.  I'm glad they complained.  I would imagine It's hard to lie and rip people off with no overtime pay if you worked it. 

Hope Now was contacted by my wife and I, but WE did the work Rodis was paid to do.  At least your lender is aware of their involvement in witnessing conversations with your bank.  It can help to keep loan mod. guidelines followed. 

Despite my personal dislike towards people that suck...

Report Ron P. Rodis to the Ca. Bar., and the Attorney General- He needs to be punished, hopefully disbarred.  He had to know what was going on.

Hi, Kevin again.  I forgot to mention above that Rodis Law Group illegally took money out of my bank account (no signed retainer or authorization) with information they got from someone at the Tax ASAP (seperate company, but with apparently common information available) side of the business.  This was going to be my 30 days late mortgage payment, thus leaving me with no money to pay it.  Then, did it again 17 days later, putting me in no position to pay my mortgage, with bank overdraft charges and bill late payment charges and $2500 plus gone from my account. THAT was not my choice to "not pay my mortgage"  Rodis Law Group chose for me.

John

Your so cryptic

Your a da (in 09)

I'm new to the blogging. I'm not new to the unfair practices of banking. History is repeating itself again.

Each state has a Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) where they set the guidelines for modifications. The guidelines state that a Mortgage Broker, Attorney and Loan Originator can negotiate with the lender on behalf of the homeowner. Our company, Strategic Loan Mods is an attorney based modification company where each homeowner gets 1 on 1 representation to the lender on their behalf resulting in a classic attorney/client relationship. When times get tough, the lowest creatures will take advantage of those who are at their weakest point. Our entire company is based on integrity but our systems in place also prevent fraudulent performance with any of our representatives. On average, our clients recoup their modification fee with in 3 to 6 months just by what we save them monthly on their mortgage payment. Nothing is free these days. We all need money to live. Just remember, you get what you pay for.

We have done due diligence in pursuing to meet all federal and state guidelines in order to build a sustainable business model that will grow with the DFI's pioneering effort to control fraud and protect the homeowner. Our Co-founder, Karen Tuff/Loan Originator knows what it's like out there for the industry who is drowning along with the rest of the country. If anyone wants to work with an attorney based platform resulting in amazing new terms and interest rates for the homeowner, we'd be happy to interview you. Only high level integrity prudent business people will be part of our team.

Has anyone heard of a new Loan Mod company called RestartAlliance.com?  I was contacted and afterward did a little research.   The owner may have a sketchy background with another company he owned called SaveMtg.com.  Apparently his clients paid $2000 up front and the company folded without any loan restructuring being done?

Is is safe to say that any Loan Modifier asking for money up front is probably not on the up and up?

Please see this court document filed with U.S. District Court, Central District of CA re. Rodis Law Group and affiliated entities.

http://www.ftc.gov/os/caselist/x000001/090610dmcmemo.pdf

 Wanna get a face to go with the pricks name?

Bryan D'Antonio President/CEO at The Financial Group, Inc. Rodis Law/Tax Relief ASAP/Americas Law Group

see link below:

http://www.linkedin.com/ppl/webprofile?action=vmi&id=43964347&pvs=pp&authToken=qjiM&authType=name&trk=ppro_viewmore&lnk=vw_pprofile

have anyone heard about a company call dsb loan modification just would like great input of any info reguarding this company.

To the above Andy

Use this link , then use your own judgement about the character/ethics of this person.

http://www.nytimes.com/1999/07/23/business/us-indicts-15-in-brokerage-firm-fraud-case.html

Also, you should not have to pay up front.

Does anyone know a Company named Financial Freedom Services Group in Norco, CA ? - They do loan modifications. Thank you for any feedback about this Company.

Joe

I found this blog after researching a company called -community helpline based in fullerton, ca.

I tried the BBB - nothing came up, There is an attorney affiliation- I checked & the attorney has a Bar # and no legal actions reported. That being said, a freind of mine was contacted by someone several months ago- not the attorney specifically. It has been over 8 months and he received a certified pre-foreclosure letter from his lender the other day. In trying to contact the mortage broker ( I looked up the company an found the person who he deals with is a mortgage broker) he has left several messages that have not been returned. He paid an upfront for of close to $4000 over 6 months ago.

When he has heard from Community Helpline in the past - they have claimed to be working on it... I asked him to contact them ( which he did) 2 days ago and ask for a copy of the communications they have had with the lender. It has been 2 days and still no response. I am concerned

My questions...

If an attorney is working on this why would the legal pre-foreclosure letter have been sent? Isn't any legal action suspended when an arrangement is in process, or does the legal process continue until the situation with the lender has been resolved?

This is a new comapny ... www.communityhelpline.info it seems. Are they a more clever scammer who affiliates with an attorney but does no more than promise things & take HUGE fees upfront?

Any info would be GREATLY appreciated!!!!! He does not want to loose his home. The legal pre-foreclosure letter states it will be 3 months from that date that legal action will begin ( Letter  dated July 7th). IS that the date of Foreclosure?

When should red flags come up? Is that time now?

If you are interested in a loan modification:

1) Consider doing it yourself.  There are some free or low-cost self-help organizations such as HopeNow.org.  (I am not affiliated with HopeNow.org nor is this an endorsement).

2) Consider using an attorney.  If your bank refuses a loan modification, an attorney can provide assistance with foreclosure, short-sales, bancruptcy, etc.  A reputable and experienced attorney may be able to negotiate better terms than a real-estate broker.

3) Investigate before you put-up any money.  Investigate an attorney using the state bar of the state in which the business operates.  Also investigate the loan modification company using BBB.org, and a thorough online search to view any complaints.  Other places to look include your state's Attorney General website and FTC.gov.

 Regards,

Lindsay

A general question about loan mods...once a loan mod negotiation begins, should the mortgage holder continue to make payments, or is it ok to suspend payments through the negotiation period, and if so, does this have an impact on the credit rating? We have never been late, but have horrible terms (we were originally part of the sub-prime loan debacle), but have managed to keep current. I had a BK about 6 years ago and have worked hard to bring up my credit rating and don't want to screw it up again.

An attorneys office in CA told me that mortgage payments are supsended during the negotiation process, and I just want to make sure he is not saying so to make negotiations easier while damaging my credit rating.

Any feedback is appreciated.

I'm sure there are many variables but this is how it has worked for me so far and what I have been told by Chase - who are servicing my loan for Fannie Mae.

First I tried to do it myself - twice and was told each time that my loan was not eligible for a loan mod, I was current with payments during this time.

Then I decided to use a loan mod company. Nothing happened for a couple of months. Finally I had to miss a payment - May 09.  About two weeks later I was offered a loan mod. A temp mod actually. This is where they determine a reduced payment that they think you should be able to make. You make this payment for 3 months and then they will make permanent changes to your loan so that the reduced payment - or one close to it - will be your "permanent"  payment. For how long I don't know. Maybe 2 years, maybe 5 years, maybe the life of the loan. No straight answer.

So - I have now made 3 payments and called Chase yesterday. They told me they are still waiting for software and guidelines from Fannie Mae and to just keep making the reduced payment until they have their act together. Maybe another couple of months. Maybe longer.

In the meantime - they continue to report me late - every month  - because every month I am not making the full payment therefore I am not fulfilling my original obligation on the note.  That's true of course but a bit unfair because they told me not to make the June payment and that both would be wrapped into the back end of the loan once the mod was finalized. And, I am paying what they've asked met to pay but it is not the original amount so technically I am late every month.

With the delays at Fannie Mae to figure out how to treat the loan I will end up being 4 mths ... 5 mths ... 6mths late. and my credit score will suffer greatly during this period when in fact I only really "missed" one month.

Doesn't seem fair to me. There was some vague inference that I might have luck getting the lates removed once the mod is permanent but of course, no straight answer,

Would be great to hear from anyone that has been through this and has their loan mod made permanent and then what they were able to do with repairing their credit score.

You're welcome to contact me directly if you wish.

GeoffGow@yahoo.com

Thanks - Geoff

Paul, I am curious whether you paid Martin Andelman $2500 to have him come out to your office and include your firm as a trusted firm.  A commenter on a blog article posted on LoanSafe.org stated Andelman contacted him and wanted to change him $2500 for the privilege.  

Andelman is not an industry professional, and has told me repeatedly that he is not an expert on compliance issues in regard to modification companies.  This was after I provided him with detailed concerns regarding one modification company he did consulting for and endorsed on his blog.  The company has since been issued a Desist and Refrain order from the California Department of Real Estate, closed the company and websites, and reopened under a new name.  Although Martin has acknowledged the company closure on the LoanSafe.org website in response to the story, he still hasn't come clean to his readers on the issue.  

Just thought you might like to know.  

Maybe I'm missing something, but that seems like a completely inappropriate question to ask. While my firm advertises in print and online, we do not discuss our advertising budgets or strategies in public. My law firm puts a great deal of time and effort into making sure all of our advertising stands up to the strict guidelines set by the State Bar.

- Paul

I called Guardian Advocate Group to modify my loan way back in June. I talked to a guy named Gregg Shwack and was convinced that this was a legitimate loan modification company. I also had small email communication with Mike Luchen (CEO), who also assured me that I was in good hands. 

I would only use an Attorney. Personally, I see alot of fly by night loan mod companies out there that are outsourcing to attorneys who then hand the file over to their "processors" or LO's to process while they just sign off every once in a while. The actual attorneys are not usually even doing the negotiations! These "loan mod" companies are nothing more than glorified salespeople who don't even understand the negotiations themselves. In essence, they don't even understand what they are selling. They take a portion of the fee for themselves, usually more than the actual attorney is taking. That should tell you something about the attorneys they are using, if the handoff to the processors doesn't already.

I see these loan mod companies as nothing more than scams. They are being sold by real estate agents, mortgage brokers and loan officers who mention that they are "attorney backed". I think these people are pond scum and are getting into all sorts of things such as: debt consolidation, loan mods or trying to refinance your home for you. All the while raising the price to make money off of you. These are the same bottom feeders who put our economy in this position to begin with and are now making money off of others misfortune. I would steer away and ONLY go through an actual attorney who does the negotiations themselves.