Florida Defaulted Loan Workouts and Restructuring Agreements

What are defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements?

Defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements involve negotiating new terms for an outstanding loan to resolve a borrower’s default, allowing them to avoid foreclosure in the context of Florida real estate transactions. These agreements can benefit both parties, as lenders may receive more reliable repayment terms, and borrowers can retain their property.

For instance, suppose a borrower with a commercial property in Florida defaulted on their mortgage payments due to a downturn in business. The lender and borrower could negotiate a loan workout, modifying the interest rate or extending the repayment period to make the loan more manageable for the borrower.

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Which Florida laws, rules, and regulations apply to defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements?

Florida laws applicable to defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements include Chapter 702 of the Florida Statutes, which governs the foreclosure process. Additionally, the Florida Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FFDCPA) regulates the conduct of debt collectors. Finally, at the federal level, the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) protect borrowers by requiring lenders to provide specific disclosures and follow certain procedures during the loan workout process.

Together, these laws and regulations establish a framework for addressing defaulted loans and ensuring that both lenders and borrowers act in good faith during negotiating and implementing loan workouts and restructuring agreements.

What are common issues associated with defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements that lead to litigation?

The following issues tend to escalate transactional disputes to litigation:

Lack of communication: Misunderstandings between borrowers and lenders may occur due to poor communication during the workout process, leading to disputes and potential litigation.
Breach of agreement: Either party may fail to adhere to the newly negotiated terms of the loan workout, resulting in a breach of the contract and possible legal action.
Disagreements on loan terms: Disputes may arise when borrowers and lenders cannot agree on the terms of the workout, such as interest rates, payment schedules, or loan extensions.
Fraud or misrepresentation: If either party engages in fraudulent activity or misrepresents information during the negotiation process, it could lead to litigation.
Violations of applicable laws: Non-compliance with relevant Florida and federal laws, such as the Florida Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FFDCPA) or the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), can result in legal action.

When a set of facts is appropriate for legal advocacy or intervention, there are many paths a claimant may take. We are value-based attorneys at Jimerson Birr, which means we look at each action with our clients from the point of view of costs and benefits while reducing liability. Then, based on our client’s objectives, we chart a path to seek appropriate remedies.

To determine whether your unique situation may necessitate litigation or another form of specialized advocacy, please contact our office to set up your initial consultation.

What measures should counsel take to resolve issues and avoid litigation over defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements?

Clear communication: Encourage open and transparent communication between borrowers and lenders to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that both parties understand the terms of the workout.
Proper documentation: Draft and review thorough documents that accurately reflect the terms of the workout agreement, ensuring that both parties have a clear understanding of their obligations.
Compliance with laws and regulations: To avoid potential legal disputes, advise clients on the importance of adhering to all relevant Florida and federal laws, such as the Florida Uniform Commercial Code and RESPA.
Negotiation and mediation: Facilitate effective negotiation and, if necessary, seek mediation to help clients reach a mutually acceptable resolution without resorting to litigation.
Due diligence: Conduct thorough due diligence on the borrower’s financial situation and the property in question to identify potential issues that could lead to disputes.
Risk assessment: Evaluate potential risks associated with the workout agreement and advise clients on strategies to mitigate those risks and avoid litigation.

Please contact our office to set up your initial consultation to see what forms of legal advocacy or intervention may be available for your unique situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a lender pursue a deficiency judgment after a defaulted loan workout in Florida?

Yes, under certain circumstances, a lender can pursue a deficiency judgment under Florida Statute Section 45.0315 after a defaulted loan workout. For example, if the borrower fails to repay the restructured loan and the property is sold for less than the outstanding balance, the lender can seek a deficiency judgment for the difference.

What role do personal guarantees play in loan workouts and restructuring agreements?

Personal guarantees often serve as additional security for the lender in loan workouts and restructuring agreements. If the borrower defaults on the restructured loan, the lender may pursue the guarantor for repayment, providing an extra layer of protection for the lender.

How does the statute of limitations affect Florida loan workouts and restructuring agreements?

The statute of limitations affects the time frame a lender can initiate legal action to recover a debt. Under Florida Statute Section 95.11, the statute of limitations for written contracts, including loan agreements, is typically five years. However, a loan workout or restructuring agreement may restart the statute of limitations, depending on the terms of the contract.

Are there tax consequences for borrowers in a defaulted loan workout situation?

Yes, there may be tax consequences for borrowers in a defaulted loan workout situation. For example, if a lender forgives a portion of the debt, the forgiven amount may be considered taxable income by the Internal Revenue Service. Borrowers should consult a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications of their loan workout or restructuring agreement.

Can a borrower and lender agree to a deed in lieu of foreclosure in a loan workout situation?

A deed in lieu of foreclosure is an option where the borrower voluntarily transfers the property’s title to the lender to satisfy the outstanding debt, avoiding foreclosure proceedings. This option may be agreed upon during a loan workout negotiation if both parties find it beneficial. However, it is essential to consider potential tax consequences and ensure they address any junior liens on the property.

Have more questions about real estate transactions and disputes?

Crucially, this overview of defaulted loan workouts and restructuring agreements does not begin to cover all the laws implicated by this issue or the factors that may compel the application of such laws. Every case is unique, and the laws can produce different outcomes depending on the individual circumstances.

Jimerson Birr attorneys guide our clients to help make informed decisions while ensuring their rights are respected and protected. Our lawyers are highly trained and experienced in the nuances of the law, so they can accurately interpret statutes and case law and holistically prepare individuals or companies for their legal endeavors. Through this intense personal investment and advocacy, our lawyers will help resolve the issue’s complicated legal problems efficiently and effectively.

Having a Jimerson Birr attorney on your side means securing a team of seasoned, multi-dimensional, cross-functional legal professionals. Whether it is a transaction, an operational issue, a regulatory challenge, or a contested legal predicament that may require court intervention, we remain tireless advocates at every step. Being a value-added law firm means putting the client at the forefront of everything we do. We use our experience to help our clients navigate even the most complex problems and come out the other side triumphant.

If you want to understand your case, the merits of your claim or defense, potential monetary awards, or the amount of exposure you face, you should speak with a qualified Jimerson Birr lawyer. Our experienced team of attorneys is here to help. Call Jimerson Birr at (904) 389-0050 or use the contact form to schedule a consultation.