Some examples of cases where this approach would be considered are where the house has been sold but the sale has not settled or where an insurance settlement is pending. It is usually possible to determine a date certain for curing the default. The lender will want documented evidence, such as the sale contract, before granting indulgence. This type of workout arrangement requires your normal mortgage payments be made as scheduled, plus an additional amount that will cure the delinquency in no more than 12 to 24 months. In some cases the additional amount may be a lump sum due at a specific date in the future.
Repayment plans are probably the most frequently used type of workout agreement.
In some circumstances, it may be impossible for you to make any payments at all for some period of time. The forbearance plan will be in writing, have a definite term and spell out the method of ending the delinquency. In most cases the length of the plan will not exceed 18 months and will stipulate commencement of foreclosure action if you default on the agreement. Any workout agreement is a last-ditch effort by you and your lender to avoid foreclosure and keep you in your home. It is not a substitute for good budgeting and financial planning on your part and will probably not be available if your payment record has not been consistently good up to the present time.