We have been discussing in our previous two posts the opposing views on the federal government's response to the mortgage crisis and the success or failure of the two major mortgage programs. Two programs that many Florida homeowners had hoped would help them through what has been an especially rough period for many who now do or could face foreclosure.

The two programs are the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) and the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP). The first was supposed to help Americans obtain permanent loan modifications and the second was to help Americans refinance with a lower interest rate when they normally would not be eligible.

Both programs have been met with serious criticism about their success. HARP recently received a bit of an overhaul that the government hoped would help fix some of the kinks and allow more homeowners to find help under the program. The changes have already been met with similar criticism.

Many state attorneys general and federal officials are working with some of the largest mortgage servicers across the country on a settlement that would help homeowners. The Hardest Hit Funds still have a lot of money left to spend and states' ability to take advantage of those will not expire until 2017.

Government officials say that new, but smaller programs are being refined that would help homeowners. Even if new programs are released, many homeowners simply cannot wait to see what they will be. If you have questions about your situation, an experienced attorney is the best place to start. The attorney is on your side without judgment and his or her knowledge and experience will help you determine the best solution.

Source: USA Today, "What went wrong with foreclosure aid programs," Julie Schmit, Dec. 11, 2011