Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt - Loan Modification Forum

deeezldoc · 02-21-2009, 07:57 AM

Greetings All. This is an outstanding site and forum-thanks Moe and everyone else that helps and educates.

Here is my story: I have a 2nd home in Florida that I couldn't sell when I moved to Arizona in early 2006-so it is rented out at a $900.00 monthly loss. Despite the fact that I am losing at least $18,000 a year including all costs I have tried to hold on. This home now needs a new roof and a bunch of other repairs, totalling over $20,000.

I should disclose at this point that I retained Griswold and Agdeppa for a modification to my primary residence in Arizona-this is in the early stages.

I inquired with my modification processor at G & A and was told that Countrywide will not even consider a principal reduction as part of a modification on my second property regardless of the circumstances. She told me to contact the mortgage investigator to retain their services if I wanted to try. Following her advice, I contact the mortage investigator (the first person in the process-this is the person that signs you up into the process) and he told me that Countrywide had done principal reductions on second homes and that "amazing things" are happening now on a daily basis. He told me that if CW wouldn't mod to my satisfaction, they would aggressively help with a short sale effort, and if this didn't work they would help negotiate a "deed in lieu of foreclosure"-all for no additional cost.

I contacted CW at the home retention number listed elsewhere in this forum, and was told that there were no options and that I should go and stick a short sale sign on the lawn for 90 days, then come back to them to discuss a "deed in lieu of" with them. Very rude and condescending representative-no options offered.

I'm a little concerned because, although the mortgage investigator is very polite and seems to be trying to help-how can he be so sure that it's possible for me to pursue a loan modification on this property that includes principal reduction if his counterpart that actually speaks directly to the lenders is telling me that it isn't possible because it is a second home ?.

I would definitely retain G & A to try to modify this loan, but I don't have $2995.00 to shell out a second time for no good reason. I already paid this for the loan modification on my primary residence here in Arizona.

I am trying to talk myself into keeping this home, but with the excessive repairs and guaranteed negative amount every month-I can't afford to pay it unless the payment amount is reduced. The loan is a fixed rate at 6.50 for 30 years, there is no second loan on this property.

To try and help everyone out that is considering using G & A for loan modification-I will start another thread to give details on my AZ loan modification effort for my primary home. The lenders are ASC and CLC.

Does anyone have any thoughts on the questions that I have regarding what the reps from G & A are telling me ? Has anyone successfully obtained a loan mod with CW on a second home ?

Thanks
Charles

Dan Bailey · 02-21-2009, 08:29 AM

Charles, I would give a call back and talk to them again to firm up any mis-understandings between the two peoples statements.

heehoo22 · 02-21-2009, 09:22 AM

Countrywide will not do a principal reduction on a 2nd property. I would recommend putting the home up for a short sale. It's dragging you down and with all the repairs, will continue to drag you down.

deeezldoc · 02-21-2009, 10:03 AM

Thanks Dan and Heehoo. Dan-when I call back how do I reach someone that can answer the question. I've got a choice between a processor who seems to be doing 1000 things at once and is missing large details on my current loan mod-so he is not a viable source of info. The processor who told me that CW wouldn't be able to do anything seems to be the most credible since she speaks directly to the lenders-she doesn't speak to CW though. Then I have the mortage investigator who wants to sign me up at all costs. You can see why it is a little confusing-not sure who to ask. I don't expect them to make me a promise of what they can do, not at all-just want the best and worst case so I can decide whether to try to come up with $2995.00 to let them have a go at it. Hopefully this makes sense. I will definitely update the thread for this problem so others can benefit from the honest info. I appreciate your response.

gray517 · 02-21-2009, 10:08 PM

deeezldoc
I recommend you look thru the success thread on the forum, I don't think there actually has been a documented case of principal reduction yet on primary or any other homes. Investors that back the loans are not willing to approve principal reductions at this time. There are a lot of so-called "mortgage modification experts" out there trying to get business, I get called daily and get something from some kind of expert in the mail everyday, I have even gotten letters that look like it's official from the government ( fine print says its from xyz mortgage co.) since the credit market is frozen, unscrupulous mortgage brokers have now become mortgage modification experts. We obtained a successful interest rate reduction for the entire life of the loan ( a lot of lenders are currently offering 5-10 year fixes) using the service of Naca, a non-profit organization that helps anyone in trouble and is free, unfortunately you can only own a primary residence and no other property. heehoo22 works for Countrywide so she has the inside scoop on things, I would ask for proof that they have gotten principal reduction on any property, I think it should be illegal for companies whether legit or not to promise something that they know is not going to happen or at the very least has about a 5% success rate of happening. Good luck in your journey!

http://www.loansafe.org/forum/succes...ught-back-won/

deeezldoc · 02-28-2009, 04:28 PM

I currently have a loan modification in process with Griswold and Agdeppa. I called the office manager Scott twice and sent two e-mails to get questions answered-never heard back. I read elsewhere in these forums that Paiva is not associated with loansafe.org anymore but Scott (Office manager for G & A) has a voice mail on his cell phone saying that he is the manager for Paiva. I'm trying to sign up for another loan modification and the documents that arrived say Fransen and Molinaro on them. They also say that F & A is the sole law office associated with Loansafe.org on the documents. G & A also claims to be the sole law office associated with loansafe.org.

Could someone explain the inconsistencies above-very confusing and I have not been able to get a straight answer. I have a loan modification request sitting on my desk and would like to get this cleared up before I send it in.

Thanks

Moe Bedard · 02-28-2009, 04:41 PM

Fransen and Molinaro are in addition to Griswold and Agdeppa, but two separate firms.

das0331 · 03-02-2009, 02:20 PM

I am concerned about Fransen & Molinaro, also Griswold & Agdeppa. I have been reading loan modification fraud and what I have heard is anytime that someone has to pay any up front fees it is a scam and NOT to associate with this in any way. Can someone elaborate on this subject or if anyone has had experience on successful loan mods with either of the above mentioned?

Moe Bedard · 03-02-2009, 03:43 PM

das0331,

These are attorneys............for any work that any attorney gets retained to do, an attorney can collect a retainer fee.

What you are talking about is a modification company.........not a law firm, a modification company, according to the laws in many states are not able to collect up front fees before providing services.

If you are going to hire a third party to help you with a modification, short sale, or foreclosure protection...............it is best to use an attorney that offers these services, you can easily check an attorney through their state's bar association, versus an out of work mortgage broker who just became a "modification consultant" to part you from your money.............that is where the scams start.

das0331 · 03-02-2009, 03:52 PM

Thank you *** for clearing this up. The way things are going, it's nice to hear some reassurance.

deeezldoc · 03-07-2009, 11:50 AM

Interesting update that I would like to share. After I posted my entry (above in this thread) last night I found the e-mail address for Pernell Agdeppa-one of the principals in Griswold and Agdeppa. He responded to my e-mail at 10 p.m. last night and gave me his cell phone number-very impressive.

I spoke to Pernell for about 20 minutes this morning and recounted the process so far and how bad the communications have been. I have to give him full credit-he took full credit for the problems as the boss of the firm and is now going to dig into the problems and try to get this done.

I feel a lot better-give G + A a call and ask to speak to Pernell Agdeppa-he was very receptive and proactive during our discussion.

Hope this helps......

deeezldoc · 03-07-2009, 11:52 AM

By the way-Lafollete Henderson seems to be great. For the record, he does not work for Griswold and Agdeppa-he works for Fransen and Molinaro. I confirmed this with both Mr. Agdeppa and Mr. Fransen.

Hope this helps......

katz3645us · 03-07-2009, 02:39 PM

why can't g & a gives us the pres phone or email to make sure cw has the records I hired G& A i have spoke with Mr herderson several times but my check was made out to G & A

deeezldoc · 03-08-2009, 11:33 AM

Pernell_Agdeppa@griswoldandagdeppa.com

His direct line is: (951) 284-2165
Very pleasant person to talk to. He is helping me get my loan mod back on track and is addressing any quality or communications issue that currently exist within his firm.

Good Luck !!

ocalalady · 03-09-2009, 08:17 AM

I think I wrote the wrong name...it's Safe Loan Modification Services...and I don't even see G&A listed on their website/link anymore. hmmm.

katz3645us · 03-09-2009, 11:21 AM

I call the number & got voice mail, but call 351-531-0148 & told them want to speak who was handling my case. Well is G&A . I did get to speak to stephene, she answered a lot a questions for me. Just found out file just went to CW on thur. weeks after they had all my info.
I still think they are connected some way, how can you call 1 number & get all the different offices. Mr henderson still has same number but different firm? weird. Everywhere I look online for G&A the site takes me to Fransen & Molinaro. I hope Agdeppa calls back to get some reassureance
CW start a loan mod on there own, seen it going on via there website. got fedEx today what a joke, my payment was 2200. now the want 2400.

deeezldoc · 03-15-2009, 09:17 AM

Spoke to Lafollete Henderson yesterday-discussed my loan mod and submitted more documents. I have a friend who is trying to decide whether to use Fransen and Molinaro to try and modify his loan. He asked for some documented cases of loan mods that were obtained by Fransen and Molinaro/Griswold and Agdeppa. The documents he received (countrywide) are disturbing-there is not a single case of fixed rate loan, principal reduction or anything positive in any of the examples that were sent. I've checked out all of the threads on this forum very well and I have yet to find any results (positive) from loan mods that these law firms helped obtain. Does anyone have an experience to share related to Fransen and Molinaro ? The communications have been great since I shifted my loan mods over to F + M-but I'd like to see some results. I will update this thread with (hopefully) good news if/when I get any.

Moe Bedard · 03-15-2009, 09:31 AM

deeezldoc,

that is the case with any of the modifications coming from CW directly..........they are all for a period of 5yrs to 10yrs and then they go up from there..........and they have not reduced principal in any cases on first liens.......whether using an attorney or going it alone............it is their investor model and it is written right on their website............the attorneys can only achieve what the investor on the note is willing to do............unless the loan is a FannieMae/FreddieMac loan in which case the outcome would be according to those specific guidelines.

these are the three types of programs that everyone that goes through CW and qualifies, gets............and they are...........

A fully amortizing loan modification with an interest rate reduction to the introductory rate or lower for five years and an automatic conversion to a fixed rate for the remainder of the loan term. If the new payment will not be affordable at the time of conversion, the borrower will be considered for a single two-year period of reduced rate financing and the conversion to a fixed rate will occur at the end of the seventh year.

An optional ten-year interest-only period on the loan; and
Reduction of the interest rate with fixed step annual rate adjustments, subject to an interest-rate cap.

that isn't the third party.................it's Countrywide...............

If your friend wants to acieve a low fixed rate modification and that is the only property that they own...............they can try NACA...........NACA does their own Home Save modification program and the services are free.........they are a HUD approved counseling agency and have been around for over 20 years.........here is the link to read through and see if they may be able to help.............
https://www.naca.com/refinance/refinanceTenStep.jsp

frankielee · 03-23-2009, 04:46 PM

I didn't like the hard sell I felt from Lafolette Henderson when I talked about their services. I asked for what one person mentioned above, some results from previous modifications, and that went nowhere. I asked him to send me something, anything in writing explaining their approach, mission statement, what have you. He emailed me a short response with a bunch of links to other articles about foreclosure and it's impact and such. Nothing about their firm.

I was put off when I told him briefly about my situation....and he said they probably wouldn't be able to do anything with the 1st mortgage, but the 2nd could be reduced to a dime on the dollar. Pretty interesting that he could forecast this without knowing whether or not I was upside down, or who the investors were.

The clincher came when he brushed off another attemp by me to see anything at all about how they would operate on my behalf.....he came back sounding just like a used car salesman and a bad one at that, "Now what's it going to take to clinch this deal right now Mr. ******?"

Huh? Did you just say what I think you did? Later. I'll take my chances with advocacy groups and keep what little money CW hasn't taken from me. Go kick somebody elses tires.

deeezldoc · 03-23-2009, 04:56 PM

I can only pass on what I know to be true-here is what I know. There are two law firms, Griswold and Agdeppa, and Fransen and Molinaro. I have spoken to Pernell Agdeppa and Nathan Fransen personally so the things I am passing on are verified and if anyone disputes it they need to contact one of these individuals-they are the principals of both firms. Griswold and Agdeppa have reached maximum capacity for now and are not accepting any additional loan modifications. Fransen and Molinaro have been endorsed by this web site to provide loan modification services-so they are now in the mix. The confusing thing (I think this is getting resolved now) is that both law firms are co-located in the same building. This is why you can call the central number and reach people from both firms.

I was concerned about the service I was receiving from Griswold and Agdeppa and called Pernell Agdeppa to discuss. He was very courteous and, since I have a loan mod in process with Fransen and Molinaro-that he would transfer my other one to them as well (I have two in process now).

I have spoken to Nathan Fransen several times and I can tell you that he is actively engaged in the loan mods that his firm is handling-very nice individual.

This is what I believe at this point. Both firms are trying to take care of clients needs-the thing that is lacking is the feedback and customer service aspect. In my case I can tell you that I get regular updates and both of my loan mods seem to be on the right track. I am pretty demanding, but at the moment I am happy with the service I am receiving. If your friend is unhappy with the service being received I would recommend calling Pernell Agdeppa ( I posted his info earlier in this thread) and he will help. If the problem is with Fransen and Molinaro just call Nathan Fransen or send him an e-mail and he will help. I have had excellent response from both. If I wasn't happy, I would definitely write it here-I am loyal first to my family and getting the loan mods done. I believe that Fransen and Molinaro is going to get me what I need.

Does this help ?

Let me know if more details are needed.

I have absolutely no connection to either law firm-just trying to share my experience. If you or your friend aren't comfortable putting down $ ahead of time (understandable) or with the lack of a guarantee-not sure how to help with this.

Moe Bedard · 03-23-2009, 07:17 PM

Griswold and Agdeppa were fired by me. They got too busy and had to stop taking on clients. Plain and simple. I am loyal to God, my family, people I help and everything else in that order.

If I hear complaints, I listen, investigate and then make a decision based on what is best for homeowners. I found a firm in California that would take on and could handle the calls from struggling homeowners and Fransen and Molinaro are top notch. Yes, I make money from advertising, BUT I WILL FIRE THEM TO IF THEY CANT TAKE CARE OF THE PEOPLE PROPERLY!

If it is one firm all the time, that is when I would be worried. It would be called a monoply folks!!!!! I dont allow that, in fact I need more attorneys in other states that know what they are doing. Any help here?

frankielee · 03-23-2009, 09:10 PM

Moe,

As a newbie to your forum who has read many hundreds of posts here, I can tell you that your integrity is not at stake here, at least not from my point of view. However, by association with legal eagles recommended on your site and I'm sure you're aware of this fact, it can shape the feelings of folks who are simply in need of help. Many end up here looking for help, or a way for a wrong to be righted, and are thrust into legal fixes that may or may not be in their best interest.

If in fact you are earning an income simply by banner ads or such, I have no problem whatsoever. If, however, you are being paid to simply point towards any particular law firm I have a problem with that. Let me be clear that I'm not accusing you of that, and I don't believe that that is the case here.

As in many posts here and cases that we all know about, spending $3k for a law firm to do what in fact may be able to be achieved by any number of non-profit groups is, IMO, just plain wrong, if in fact the lawyers aren't bringing anything else to the table that could be had out in the free market by the many hundreds if not thousands of dedicated not for profit advocacy groups who are starting to have a real impact on these banking shenanigans.

I'd be willing to bet my last dollar that most finding their way to your website are literally down to their last dollar, and $3k is a mountain that is totally insurmountable. I'd like to think that you and anyone connected to your fine website would be acutely attuned to that fact, and would act accordingly.

Your website is doing a wonderful job of highlighting the problems inherent in our system. I hope you continue to maintain it in such a way as to be a real aid to those in search of hope and help. Lord knows we all need any help we can get these days.

tandm · 03-23-2009, 10:32 PM

Moe -

The law firm we used that I've talked about in other threads IS NOT Franson and Molinaro. I've been careful not to mention the firm we hired by name on this forum as I think *** wanted me to watch out for that. By the way, I am so glad you've created this website - it's been a wonderful tool and a place to go and learn from/help others who are feeling the pain too.

Moe Bedard · 03-23-2009, 10:46 PM

Yes that is correct....as it would create a conflict of interest.......they would have to speak with Moe first........until they have been checked out first and authorized to be on the website.
you can have your attorney email him if they are interested...........
moe@loansafe.org

CW California · 03-23-2009, 11:41 PM

Deeezldoc
Why not dispute the charge on your credit card if you feel you have not received services?

02-21-2009, 07:57 AM	#1 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Greetings All. This is an outstanding site and forum-thanks Moe and everyone else that helps and educates. Here is my story: I have a 2nd home in Florida that I couldn't sell when I moved to Arizona in early 2006-so it is rented out at a $900.00 monthly loss. Despite the fact that I am losing at least $18,000 a year including all costs I have tried to hold on. This home now needs a new roof and a bunch of other repairs, totalling over $20,000. I should disclose at this point that I retained Griswold and Agdeppa for a modification to my primary residence in Arizona-this is in the early stages. I inquired with my modification processor at G & A and was told that Countrywide will not even consider a principal reduction as part of a modification on my second property regardless of the circumstances. She told me to contact the mortgage investigator to retain their services if I wanted to try. Following her advice, I contact the mortage investigator (the first person in the process-this is the person that signs you up into the process) and he told me that Countrywide had done principal reductions on second homes and that "amazing things" are happening now on a daily basis. He told me that if CW wouldn't mod to my satisfaction, they would aggressively help with a short sale effort, and if this didn't work they would help negotiate a "deed in lieu of foreclosure"-all for no additional cost. I contacted CW at the home retention number listed elsewhere in this forum, and was told that there were no options and that I should go and stick a short sale sign on the lawn for 90 days, then come back to them to discuss a "deed in lieu of" with them. Very rude and condescending representative-no options offered. I'm a little concerned because, although the mortgage investigator is very polite and seems to be trying to help-how can he be so sure that it's possible for me to pursue a loan modification on this property that includes principal reduction if his counterpart that actually speaks directly to the lenders is telling me that it isn't possible because it is a second home ?. I would definitely retain G & A to try to modify this loan, but I don't have $2995.00 to shell out a second time for no good reason. I already paid this for the loan modification on my primary residence here in Arizona. I am trying to talk myself into keeping this home, but with the excessive repairs and guaranteed negative amount every month-I can't afford to pay it unless the payment amount is reduced. The loan is a fixed rate at 6.50 for 30 years, there is no second loan on this property. To try and help everyone out that is considering using G & A for loan modification-I will start another thread to give details on my AZ loan modification effort for my primary home. The lenders are ASC and CLC. Does anyone have any thoughts on the questions that I have regarding what the reps from G & A are telling me ? Has anyone successfully obtained a loan mod with CW on a second home ? Thanks Charles

02-21-2009, 08:29 AM	#2 (permalink)
Dan Bailey Loan Safe Moderator & Homeowner Guide Join Date: May 2008 Location: Wilmington NC Posts: 1,407 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Charles, I would give a call back and talk to them again to firm up any mis-understandings between the two peoples statements. __________________ Loansafe saved my home!! I may be alot of things, but I do know the difference between reply and forward.

02-21-2009, 09:22 AM	#3 (permalink)
heehoo22 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: California Posts: 141 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Countrywide will not do a principal reduction on a 2nd property. I would recommend putting the home up for a short sale. It's dragging you down and with all the repairs, will continue to drag you down.

02-21-2009, 10:03 AM	#4 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Thanks Dan and Heehoo. Dan-when I call back how do I reach someone that can answer the question. I've got a choice between a processor who seems to be doing 1000 things at once and is missing large details on my current loan mod-so he is not a viable source of info. The processor who told me that CW wouldn't be able to do anything seems to be the most credible since she speaks directly to the lenders-she doesn't speak to CW though. Then I have the mortage investigator who wants to sign me up at all costs. You can see why it is a little confusing-not sure who to ask. I don't expect them to make me a promise of what they can do, not at all-just want the best and worst case so I can decide whether to try to come up with $2995.00 to let them have a go at it. Hopefully this makes sense. I will definitely update the thread for this problem so others can benefit from the honest info. I appreciate your response.

02-21-2009, 10:08 PM	#5 (permalink)
gray517 Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Florida Posts: 627 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt deeezldoc I recommend you look thru the success thread on the forum, I don't think there actually has been a documented case of principal reduction yet on primary or any other homes. Investors that back the loans are not willing to approve principal reductions at this time. There are a lot of so-called "mortgage modification experts" out there trying to get business, I get called daily and get something from some kind of expert in the mail everyday, I have even gotten letters that look like it's official from the government ( fine print says its from xyz mortgage co.) since the credit market is frozen, unscrupulous mortgage brokers have now become mortgage modification experts. We obtained a successful interest rate reduction for the entire life of the loan ( a lot of lenders are currently offering 5-10 year fixes) using the service of Naca, a non-profit organization that helps anyone in trouble and is free, unfortunately you can only own a primary residence and no other property. heehoo22 works for Countrywide so she has the inside scoop on things, I would ask for proof that they have gotten principal reduction on any property, I think it should be illegal for companies whether legit or not to promise something that they know is not going to happen or at the very least has about a 5% success rate of happening. Good luck in your journey! http://www.loansafe.org/forum/succes...ught-back-won/

02-28-2009, 04:28 PM	#6 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Fransen and Molinaro OR Griswold and Agdeppa ? I currently have a loan modification in process with Griswold and Agdeppa. I called the office manager Scott twice and sent two e-mails to get questions answered-never heard back. I read elsewhere in these forums that Paiva is not associated with loansafe.org anymore but Scott (Office manager for G & A) has a voice mail on his cell phone saying that he is the manager for Paiva. I'm trying to sign up for another loan modification and the documents that arrived say Fransen and Molinaro on them. They also say that F & A is the sole law office associated with Loansafe.org on the documents. G & A also claims to be the sole law office associated with loansafe.org. Could someone explain the inconsistencies above-very confusing and I have not been able to get a straight answer. I have a loan modification request sitting on my desk and would like to get this cleared up before I send it in. Thanks

02-28-2009, 04:41 PM	#7 (permalink)
Moe Bedard Founder Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 16,887 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Fransen and Molinaro are in addition to Griswold and Agdeppa, but two separate firms. __________________ Moe Bedard Founder LoanSafe.org "America's #1 Home Loan Forum" LoanWorkout.org "America's # Loan Modification Blog" Get My FREE Loan Modification E-Book \| Please donate to LoanSafe.org \| Loan Modification Training For Attorneys \| Rate Your Mortgage Servicer The comments by me and the materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Most of the information you find here is easily available on the internet. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney. Please Read our Privacy Policy and Legal Disclaimer Here.

03-02-2009, 02:20 PM	#8 (permalink)
das0331 Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Posts: 12 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt I am concerned about Fransen & Molinaro, also Griswold & Agdeppa. I have been reading loan modification fraud and what I have heard is anytime that someone has to pay any up front fees it is a scam and NOT to associate with this in any way. Can someone elaborate on this subject or if anyone has had experience on successful loan mods with either of the above mentioned?

03-02-2009, 03:43 PM	#9 (permalink)
Moe Bedard Founder Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 16,887 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt das0331, These are attorneys............for any work that any attorney gets retained to do, an attorney can collect a retainer fee. What you are talking about is a modification company.........not a law firm, a modification company, according to the laws in many states are not able to collect up front fees before providing services. If you are going to hire a third party to help you with a modification, short sale, or foreclosure protection...............it is best to use an attorney that offers these services, you can easily check an attorney through their state's bar association, versus an out of work mortgage broker who just became a "modification consultant" to part you from your money.............that is where the scams start. __________________ Moe Bedard Founder LoanSafe.org "America's #1 Home Loan Forum" LoanWorkout.org "America's # Loan Modification Blog" Get My FREE Loan Modification E-Book \| Please donate to LoanSafe.org \| Loan Modification Training For Attorneys \| Rate Your Mortgage Servicer The comments by me and the materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Most of the information you find here is easily available on the internet. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney. Please Read our Privacy Policy and Legal Disclaimer Here.

03-02-2009, 03:52 PM	#10 (permalink)
das0331 Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Posts: 12 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Thank you *** for clearing this up. The way things are going, it's nice to hear some reassurance.

03-07-2009, 11:50 AM	#11 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Interesting update that I would like to share. After I posted my entry (above in this thread) last night I found the e-mail address for Pernell Agdeppa-one of the principals in Griswold and Agdeppa. He responded to my e-mail at 10 p.m. last night and gave me his cell phone number-very impressive. I spoke to Pernell for about 20 minutes this morning and recounted the process so far and how bad the communications have been. I have to give him full credit-he took full credit for the problems as the boss of the firm and is now going to dig into the problems and try to get this done. I feel a lot better-give G + A a call and ask to speak to Pernell Agdeppa-he was very receptive and proactive during our discussion. Hope this helps......

03-07-2009, 11:52 AM	#12 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt By the way-Lafollete Henderson seems to be great. For the record, he does not work for Griswold and Agdeppa-he works for Fransen and Molinaro. I confirmed this with both Mr. Agdeppa and Mr. Fransen. Hope this helps......

03-07-2009, 02:39 PM	#13 (permalink)
katz3645us Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Posts: 12 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt why can't g & a gives us the pres phone or email to make sure cw has the records I hired G& A i have spoke with Mr herderson several times but my check was made out to G & A

03-08-2009, 11:33 AM	#14 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Pernell_Agdeppa@griswoldandagdeppa.com His direct line is: (951) 284-2165 Very pleasant person to talk to. He is helping me get my loan mod back on track and is addressing any quality or communications issue that currently exist within his firm. Good Luck !!

03-09-2009, 08:17 AM	#15 (permalink)
ocalalady Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 73 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt I think I wrote the wrong name...it's Safe Loan Modification Services...and I don't even see G&A listed on their website/link anymore. hmmm.

03-09-2009, 11:21 AM	#16 (permalink)
katz3645us Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Posts: 12 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt I call the number & got voice mail, but call 351-531-0148 & told them want to speak who was handling my case. Well is G&A . I did get to speak to stephene, she answered a lot a questions for me. Just found out file just went to CW on thur. weeks after they had all my info. I still think they are connected some way, how can you call 1 number & get all the different offices. Mr henderson still has same number but different firm? weird. Everywhere I look online for G&A the site takes me to Fransen & Molinaro. I hope Agdeppa calls back to get some reassureance CW start a loan mod on there own, seen it going on via there website. got fedEx today what a joke, my payment was 2200. now the want 2400.

03-15-2009, 09:17 AM	#17 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Spoke to Lafollete Henderson yesterday-discussed my loan mod and submitted more documents. I have a friend who is trying to decide whether to use Fransen and Molinaro to try and modify his loan. He asked for some documented cases of loan mods that were obtained by Fransen and Molinaro/Griswold and Agdeppa. The documents he received (countrywide) are disturbing-there is not a single case of fixed rate loan, principal reduction or anything positive in any of the examples that were sent. I've checked out all of the threads on this forum very well and I have yet to find any results (positive) from loan mods that these law firms helped obtain. Does anyone have an experience to share related to Fransen and Molinaro ? The communications have been great since I shifted my loan mods over to F + M-but I'd like to see some results. I will update this thread with (hopefully) good news if/when I get any.

03-15-2009, 09:31 AM	#18 (permalink)
Moe Bedard Founder Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 16,887 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt deeezldoc, that is the case with any of the modifications coming from CW directly..........they are all for a period of 5yrs to 10yrs and then they go up from there..........and they have not reduced principal in any cases on first liens.......whether using an attorney or going it alone............it is their investor model and it is written right on their website............the attorneys can only achieve what the investor on the note is willing to do............unless the loan is a FannieMae/FreddieMac loan in which case the outcome would be according to those specific guidelines. these are the three types of programs that everyone that goes through CW and qualifies, gets............and they are........... A fully amortizing loan modification with an interest rate reduction to the introductory rate or lower for five years and an automatic conversion to a fixed rate for the remainder of the loan term. If the new payment will not be affordable at the time of conversion, the borrower will be considered for a single two-year period of reduced rate financing and the conversion to a fixed rate will occur at the end of the seventh year. An optional ten-year interest-only period on the loan; and Reduction of the interest rate with fixed step annual rate adjustments, subject to an interest-rate cap. that isn't the third party.................it's Countrywide............... If your friend wants to acieve a low fixed rate modification and that is the only property that they own...............they can try NACA...........NACA does their own Home Save modification program and the services are free.........they are a HUD approved counseling agency and have been around for over 20 years.........here is the link to read through and see if they may be able to help............. https://www.naca.com/refinance/refinanceTenStep.jsp __________________ Moe Bedard Founder LoanSafe.org "America's #1 Home Loan Forum" LoanWorkout.org "America's # Loan Modification Blog" Get My FREE Loan Modification E-Book \| Please donate to LoanSafe.org \| Loan Modification Training For Attorneys \| Rate Your Mortgage Servicer The comments by me and the materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Most of the information you find here is easily available on the internet. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney. Please Read our Privacy Policy and Legal Disclaimer Here.

03-23-2009, 04:46 PM	#19 (permalink)
frankielee Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 14 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt I didn't like the hard sell I felt from Lafolette Henderson when I talked about their services. I asked for what one person mentioned above, some results from previous modifications, and that went nowhere. I asked him to send me something, anything in writing explaining their approach, mission statement, what have you. He emailed me a short response with a bunch of links to other articles about foreclosure and it's impact and such. Nothing about their firm. I was put off when I told him briefly about my situation....and he said they probably wouldn't be able to do anything with the 1st mortgage, but the 2nd could be reduced to a dime on the dollar. Pretty interesting that he could forecast this without knowing whether or not I was upside down, or who the investors were. The clincher came when he brushed off another attemp by me to see anything at all about how they would operate on my behalf.....he came back sounding just like a used car salesman and a bad one at that, "Now what's it going to take to clinch this deal right now Mr. ******?" Huh? Did you just say what I think you did? Later. I'll take my chances with advocacy groups and keep what little money CW hasn't taken from me. Go kick somebody elses tires.

03-23-2009, 04:56 PM	#20 (permalink)
deeezldoc Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 13 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt I can only pass on what I know to be true-here is what I know. There are two law firms, Griswold and Agdeppa, and Fransen and Molinaro. I have spoken to Pernell Agdeppa and Nathan Fransen personally so the things I am passing on are verified and if anyone disputes it they need to contact one of these individuals-they are the principals of both firms. Griswold and Agdeppa have reached maximum capacity for now and are not accepting any additional loan modifications. Fransen and Molinaro have been endorsed by this web site to provide loan modification services-so they are now in the mix. The confusing thing (I think this is getting resolved now) is that both law firms are co-located in the same building. This is why you can call the central number and reach people from both firms. I was concerned about the service I was receiving from Griswold and Agdeppa and called Pernell Agdeppa to discuss. He was very courteous and, since I have a loan mod in process with Fransen and Molinaro-that he would transfer my other one to them as well (I have two in process now). I have spoken to Nathan Fransen several times and I can tell you that he is actively engaged in the loan mods that his firm is handling-very nice individual. This is what I believe at this point. Both firms are trying to take care of clients needs-the thing that is lacking is the feedback and customer service aspect. In my case I can tell you that I get regular updates and both of my loan mods seem to be on the right track. I am pretty demanding, but at the moment I am happy with the service I am receiving. If your friend is unhappy with the service being received I would recommend calling Pernell Agdeppa ( I posted his info earlier in this thread) and he will help. If the problem is with Fransen and Molinaro just call Nathan Fransen or send him an e-mail and he will help. I have had excellent response from both. If I wasn't happy, I would definitely write it here-I am loyal first to my family and getting the loan mods done. I believe that Fransen and Molinaro is going to get me what I need. Does this help ? Let me know if more details are needed. I have absolutely no connection to either law firm-just trying to share my experience. If you or your friend aren't comfortable putting down $ ahead of time (understandable) or with the lack of a guarantee-not sure how to help with this.

03-23-2009, 07:17 PM	#21 (permalink)
Moe Bedard Founder Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 16,887 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Griswold and Agdeppa were fired by me. They got too busy and had to stop taking on clients. Plain and simple. I am loyal to God, my family, people I help and everything else in that order. If I hear complaints, I listen, investigate and then make a decision based on what is best for homeowners. I found a firm in California that would take on and could handle the calls from struggling homeowners and Fransen and Molinaro are top notch. Yes, I make money from advertising, BUT I WILL FIRE THEM TO IF THEY CANT TAKE CARE OF THE PEOPLE PROPERLY! If it is one firm all the time, that is when I would be worried. It would be called a monoply folks!!!!! I dont allow that, in fact I need more attorneys in other states that know what they are doing. Any help here? __________________ Moe Bedard Founder LoanSafe.org "America's #1 Home Loan Forum" LoanWorkout.org "America's # Loan Modification Blog" Get My FREE Loan Modification E-Book \| Please donate to LoanSafe.org \| Loan Modification Training For Attorneys \| Rate Your Mortgage Servicer The comments by me and the materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Most of the information you find here is easily available on the internet. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney. Please Read our Privacy Policy and Legal Disclaimer Here.

03-23-2009, 09:10 PM	#22 (permalink)
frankielee Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 14 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Moe, As a newbie to your forum who has read many hundreds of posts here, I can tell you that your integrity is not at stake here, at least not from my point of view. However, by association with legal eagles recommended on your site and I'm sure you're aware of this fact, it can shape the feelings of folks who are simply in need of help. Many end up here looking for help, or a way for a wrong to be righted, and are thrust into legal fixes that may or may not be in their best interest. If in fact you are earning an income simply by banner ads or such, I have no problem whatsoever. If, however, you are being paid to simply point towards any particular law firm I have a problem with that. Let me be clear that I'm not accusing you of that, and I don't believe that that is the case here. As in many posts here and cases that we all know about, spending $3k for a law firm to do what in fact may be able to be achieved by any number of non-profit groups is, IMO, just plain wrong, if in fact the lawyers aren't bringing anything else to the table that could be had out in the free market by the many hundreds if not thousands of dedicated not for profit advocacy groups who are starting to have a real impact on these banking shenanigans. I'd be willing to bet my last dollar that most finding their way to your website are literally down to their last dollar, and $3k is a mountain that is totally insurmountable. I'd like to think that you and anyone connected to your fine website would be acutely attuned to that fact, and would act accordingly. Your website is doing a wonderful job of highlighting the problems inherent in our system. I hope you continue to maintain it in such a way as to be a real aid to those in search of hope and help. Lord knows we all need any help we can get these days.

03-23-2009, 10:32 PM	#23 (permalink)
tandm Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Orange County, CA Posts: 163 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Moe - The law firm we used that I've talked about in other threads IS NOT Franson and Molinaro. I've been careful not to mention the firm we hired by name on this forum as I think *** wanted me to watch out for that. By the way, I am so glad you've created this website - it's been a wonderful tool and a place to go and learn from/help others who are feeling the pain too.

03-23-2009, 10:46 PM	#24 (permalink)
Moe Bedard Founder Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 16,887 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Yes that is correct....as it would create a conflict of interest.......they would have to speak with Moe first........until they have been checked out first and authorized to be on the website. you can have your attorney email him if they are interested........... moe@loansafe.org __________________ Moe Bedard Founder LoanSafe.org "America's #1 Home Loan Forum" LoanWorkout.org "America's # Loan Modification Blog" Get My FREE Loan Modification E-Book \| Please donate to LoanSafe.org \| Loan Modification Training For Attorneys \| Rate Your Mortgage Servicer The comments by me and the materials available at this web site are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Most of the information you find here is easily available on the internet. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney. Please Read our Privacy Policy and Legal Disclaimer Here.

03-23-2009, 11:41 PM	#25 (permalink)
CW California Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 1,127 Nominated 0 Times in 0 Posts TOTW/F/M Award(s): 0	Re: Contemplating Hiring Attorney for Countrywide Mod Attempt Deeezldoc Why not dispute the charge on your credit card if you feel you have not received services?

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