As we discussed in this post, the "Robo-signing" foreclosure issue is a very dynamic and fluid one. There is new information by the hour. Here are some updates to that original post:
Maryland and "Corrective Affidavits"
The Baltimore Sun reported here that several Maryland foreclosure attorneys had others sign their names on court documents rather than sign them personally. In an attempt to correct this, the attorneys filed "Corrective Affidavits" later. From a title insurance perspective, this adds another layer of review for us. Should we find such a document in a foreclosure file, our underwriter needs to review the entire file before allowing us to insure. Fortunately, this can often be done in a matter of hours.
Bank of America re-opening the REO pipeline
Bank of America has partially unfrozen its foreclosure halt by allowing foreclosures to resume in 23 states after having reviewed their processes and finding no errors. Foreclosures should resume by October 25th.
Use of a "Lender Indemnity"
The Fidelity National Financial (FNF) family of title insurance companies is requiring the use of an indemnity signed by the lender/servicer for each transaction settling November 1st or later. Such an indemnity is not required, however, for deals involving Bank of America REO property as a master indemnity agreement has been signed between the two entities.
Stay tuned, as more news is sure to follow!
