Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida
loan default
we just refinanced our home and my husband lost his job and we decided we cant afford it no more and are going to move in with our kids in ohio to start over,my question is are we liable for any monies to the loan holder? or is losing the house to them our only lost?if we buy another house in ohio later down the road could they put a lien against it for the money we didnt pay back,or is the house our collateral payment for that? thnx deb
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: loan default
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You are responsible for any deficiency in the note. Although the loan is collateralized by the house, if there is a shortfall from the proceeds of the sale of the house, you are technically responsible to pay the lendor the difference.
In all practicality, the Lendor may not choose to pursue you for a shortfall but they do have the right. There are ways to guarantee against this not happening, however.
I would strongly suggest that you meet with a real estate practitioner to discuss the facts of your case. It is possible that the attorney may arrange for a deed in lieu of foreclosure with the lendor giving you a general release. This would be a much better result for you.
Scott R. Jay, Esq.