The federal government announced a new program this week known as:  the MHA program which stands for Making Homes Affordable.  The objective is to allow folks who are upside down in the equity on their home to modify their loans favorably.  The key here is that it is the homeowner's responsibility to contact their lender(s) as they are the only people who can start the program and determin eligibility for the client.  I believe it is our responsibility to let people know so they can take advantage of it.  The economic stimulus package includes this provision designed to get homeowners back on their feet and restore confidence.  If homeowners stop going into foreclosure than housing prices ought to stabilize which will strengthen our economy and allow the country to address other issues of concern.  Estimated number of homeowners who could benefit from the program is between 3 - 4 million!  Supporting the stabilization of the housing market benefits everyone even those not eligible for the program as stable prices means that unqualified homeowners who have some equity and have been making their mortgage payments faithfully ought to realize increased home values and greater equity soon.