Nick Sadek Sotheby's International Realty
Kelly Okimoto, Nick Sadek Sotheby's International RealtyPhone: (916) 335-3185
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Veteran Mortgage Relief Guide: Key Terms & Details

by Kelly Okimoto 09/30/2024

The U.S. government has multiple options available for military veterans who may be facing foreclosure. Through the Department of Veterans Affairs, borrowers can get financial relief through means such as forbearance, deferment, refinancing and more. However, there are some crucial details to be aware of. Here are some of the most important things to know about current veteran mortgage relief options:

Loan Deferment vs. Forbearance

One of the most important aspects of understanding veteran mortgage relief options is knowing the difference between loan deferment and loan forbearance. A loan deferment basically "pauses" your mortgage payments for a pre-determined period. During this time, you don't have to make payments on either the principal amount or interest. Your interest is also paused: during your deferment period, you will not continue to build interest on your loan.

Forbearance is extremely similar except for the lack of accrued interest. Just like a deferment, forbearance allows you to stop regular payments for an agreed upon amount of time. However, interest will continue to accrue as normal. While you don't need to pay it off until later, this can sometimes result in a higher total loan balance than originally planned.

Your Credit Score

Credit scores factor in to nearly every aspect of our financial lives. As such, it's important to consider the possible effect of mortgage relief on your credit score. While most mortgage relief programs won't affect your credit in a negative way, there are some situations that could cause your score to drop.

Normally, missed mortgage payments would negatively impact your credit score. If granted forbearance or deferment, your lender should keep your account marked as current. If you were already behind on payments before the relief period, it might mean your mortgage will remain in delinquent status and hurt your credit score.

There are many options for mortgage relief offered to U.S. veterans to suit a variety of situations. To determine which is best for you, keep these details in mind.

About the Author
Author

Kelly Okimoto

Professional Real Estate Agent serving and educating the Sacramento area in home buying and selling. When selling a home, I can make your home attractive to its ideal audience - which can make all the difference for some home buyers. Things like staging the home, making repairs and minor improvements can make all the difference. When buying a home, you need someone who knows this area inside and out. I will be your advocate and work with you to find the right home at the right price for you. We'll work together to find a home in the neighborhood you want, with the amenities that matter to you. I'm passionate about working with the community, from supporting youth and homelessness programs, to bringing awareness to health and community issues. Please feel free to connect, as I'm always looking to expand my network.