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HARP, a federal program, helped homeowners refinance underwater mortgages from 2009 to 2018, offering lower interest rates and monthly payments. It targeted loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, with benefits for eligible borrowers, leaving a lasting legacy.
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What is a HARP Mortgage Loan? The Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) was a federal initiative launched in 2009 to help homeowners refinance their mortgages, even if they owed more than their home’s current value. HARP enabled eligible borrowers to secure lower interest rates, reduce monthly payments, and stabilize their financial situation during the housing crisis, making homeownership more sustainable.
Eligibility Criteria for HARP To qualify for a HARP loan, homeowners needed a mortgage owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and originated before May 31, 2009. The borrower’s loan-to-value (LTV) ratio had to be greater than 80%, with a good payment history, including no late payments in the last six months and no more than one late payment in the last 12 months.
Benefits of HARP Loans HARP offered several benefits, including lower interest rates, reduced monthly mortgage payments, and the ability to switch from adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) to fixed-rate loans. It also allowed homeowners to refinance without requiring additional mortgage insurance, even if they were underwater on their loans, thereby providing significant financial relief and long-term stability.
Limitations of the HARP Program While HARP mortgage loan provided critical support, it had limitations. The program was only available to those with loans backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, excluding others. Additionally, it was restricted to mortgages originated before May 31, 2009, and only benefited those who met the specific LTV and payment history criteria, leaving out some struggling homeowners.
HARP Program Conclusion and Legacy The HARP mortgage loan program ended on December 31, 2018, after helping over 3.4 million homeowners refinance their loans. Although no longer available, its legacy persists in subsequent programs designed to assist borrowers. Homeowners who missed out on HARP may still explore options like the High LTV Refinance Option, which continues to offer similar benefits to eligible borrowers.
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