Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Anonymous in Michigan — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:41:18 GMT

Wow. My home loan is through Countrywide and I never got ANY special treatment, all I got was a hassle, high fees, and multitudes of phone calls when I got behind on my note. Obviously I am not an FOA.... they can have the damn house.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Tim Vining, Grandview, WA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:44:31 GMT

It is disengenous to believe the recepients of the V.I.P. program did not realize they were getting special treatment. A prudent individual would be out shopping for a loan to receive the best competitive rates and terms. Certainly people like Franklin Raines, (Fannie Mae) had up to the moment data on loan terms. Pigs get fed, hogs get slaughtered. It should be quite busy at the slaughter house.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Anana Onymas, Pasadena, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:42:11 GMT

I know for a fact that FOA's received special treatment from Don Vito Mozilo and the Countrywide Familia. Corrupt to the core. Favors were implied from the special deals. As an employee best not show up to work late more than 3 times or he would fire you. Saw that first hand as well.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Wood, SLC, UTah — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:23:33 GMT

Admitting that you received preferential treatment wouldn't look so good, it's convenient that these VIP's don't recall or didn't know.

I don't trust them one bit, I assume they knew more about their preferential treatment. It would be in Contrywide's best interested to make clear they were VIP. When was the last time a company spent additional money or saved you large amounts of money without letting you know?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Chuck Nead, Hamilton Mont. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:31:21 GMT

EVERY business gives special treatment to somebody. Whether it's Joe's hobby shop cuz Pete goes to the same church as Joe or if it's a senator getting a loan from countrywide. If we go after the big guys let's make sure we go after everyone else. I can't count the number of times I've run into someone who purchased something for a rediculously lower price that I got simply because of some sort of VIP treatment.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Tammy, Fort Worth, TX — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:32:56 GMT

If it looks crooked, smells crooked and taste crooked, it must be crooked.
These people are not going to tell me that they had no ideal of what was going on. Come on, we are not idiots.
But, then again that is our Goverment, what else would we expect.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Jim — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:33:13 GMT

Sen Dodd and Conrad are either stupid or lying. Sen Dodd is the Chairman of the Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee. If he did not understand that he was getting a preferential mortgage rate then he has no business chairing this committee and probably not being in the Senate at all. Likewise on Sen Conrad since he serves on the Finance Committee.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

lj aynes — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:33:45 GMT

This makes me sick. I pay them on my mortgage, and am several months ahead on the payment. I would almost let the house go, because it feels like I am contributing to something dirty.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

peggy kerr Sanbornville Nh — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:35:19 GMT

I find it interesting that there hasn't been much news about countrywide's employee who sold our personal info including ss numbers. We received a letter in September stating this and offering free three year credit monitoring. Go to this site and put in info. Well website was never available etc. So had to do it over the phone.
Why hasn't someone started a class action against them? Our info is floating out there somewhere and someone is going to use it. I really wished we had gone to our local bank to get out loan. It was an option for us but it was more convient with countrywide. They came to the local real estate office. What a price we paid.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

CW insider in Seattle — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:38:51 GMT

This is absolutely ridiculous. I have worked in the mortgage industry for 20 years, about 5 years of that at Countrywide. While I am no fan of Angelo Mozilo, the quotations and intimations in this article are unfounded. The "disgusting" quote is a reference to an email inadvertently sent to a customer that was supposed to be an internal email to the company's customer service department. The "disgust" was that a community organization had obtain Angelo's personal email address, and was encouraging people to email a form letter to Angelo repeatedly instead of directing their requests to where they need to be directed. Albeit, it was a stupid thing to say, but the disgusting comment was not directed at an individual, it was directed at hostile tactics employed by some organizations.
Secondly, every bank I have ever worked for had some sort of VIP program. Most of the differences in service and pricing are meaningless, but that doesn't stop banks, car dealers, retail stores from offering a VIP program. I just got $50 off a suit from men's warehouse for being a VIP customer of theirs, and I'm not anybody important.
Finally, what we call off sheet pricing, or a discount off the stated and published interest rate is a common practice for EVERY loan. Internal to every bank I've worked for is a policy for how discounts will affect the loan officer's commission. If Chris Dodd got a .5% point waived on his mortgage through the VIP department, he should have gone direct to a loan officer in a branch would probably would have gone twice that far in order to take a deal away from a competitor.
I agree we need to get at corruption and abuse. But, really, this is barking up the wrong tree.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Les Gray, Diamondhead, MS — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:39:38 GMT

This is why we need term limits imposed on Congressmen just as term limits are imposed on the Presidency. Congressmen write the laws that regulate taxes, commerce, etc., and are subject to great influence buying by special interest and business. For that reason alone Congressmen should be limited to a single term of office so that they have no psooibility and thus no interest in being re-elected, which will reduce the level of influence peddling by special interests and big business. Also, Congressmen should not be allowed "golden parachute" retirement plans at taxpayer expense or benefits after serving a single term. Once done - their out and gone. Maybe then we can get back to electing public servants instead of professional politicians.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Michael, Hager City, WI — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:40:32 GMT

This is absolutely pathetic! So, the common borrower is 'disgusting' to these crooks. Angelo, I hope you rot in jail. Those senators knew they were getting preferential treatment. How can any of you sleep at night while hard working Americans are loosing their homes from your GREED. Where were you crooks educated? Where did you go wrong? I am absolutely sick from reading this.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Cathrine, Orlando, FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:41:16 GMT

I got one of Country wides bad loans. They guarnteed me a fixed loan. I know I should have read the papers closer but we were sigining so many and both of the parties assured he it was fix. In about a year it had jumped to 16% AND RISING.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Jeff G, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:42:36 GMT

I have a recently refinanced fixed-rate loan with Countrywide Home Loans. During the negotiation process of my loan, it was made known to me that I was "golden" because of my excellent payment history and excellent FICO scores; however, a "float down" option was denied me upon repeated requests. Given the latest information about Countrywide, it has become clear to me that the reason that my request was denied was because it was being reserved for special "VIP" status individuals who were given preferential treatment based upon their special influence within the U.S. Government.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Mike Rand, Farmington Hills Michigan — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:49:19 GMT

Not surprised to hear all the Countrywide scam news.When they had my mortgage, they unethically held back my excrow tax payment past 12/31..thus not allowing me to claim the exemption on my tax return. My complaint to them was brushed of ..stating they could not be concerned with "my little fancy tax deduction". I was not surprised to see in one of their future newsletters, that this employee had been promoted to VP.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Toni C — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:49:38 GMT

The treatment was special and should be looked into, but how about looking into what happened in banking after Fannie and Freddie sold mortgage packages. Prior to the invention of mortgage
backed securities, credit default swaps, etc., we would have had only a housing bust, not a total financial meltdown! Please regulate banks!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Lynne, Waltham, MA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:49:39 GMT

I believe that these "special deals" are illegal because Redlining is illegal. The law states that you cannot discriminate in the lending business although it happens all the time and there is little to no oversight or enforcement. Having been in the finance/mortgage business for over 25 years, I have to say that this practice is extremely common and not at all a surprise.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Anthony, Coral Springs, FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:50:08 GMT

Big deal nothing will happen to these people. More investigating is done on the rest us when we don't pay a parking ticket. god forbid

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Joe T Berlin NJ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:50:15 GMT

As always, these big wigs had no idea that they were getting a special deal. Come on people fess up and be grown ups. Chris Dodd, please. For once take some blame and be a big enough person to say, I know what was going on.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Janet — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:01:39 GMT

They totally screwed me too! Just a little Texas that wanted her first house. The loaner officer was a pirahna. He just wanted to get his part of the action. Put the loan though knowing that it would be difficult for me to pay for 30 years. I guess that I was naive and he knew I loved the house. So now I struggle paying almost my whole check towards the house....

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Chad Holmberg, Kirkwood, New York — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:02:03 GMT

How can an investigation determine if Countrywide was trying to buy influence? These people involved are not stupid enough to specifically write someting like that and leave a smoking gun. It is all inferred or implicit, something that cannot be proven beyond a shadow of a doubt. That is why our legal system fails, intention cannot be proven. It is not only objective, but subjective.
It is commonplace for any employee to help a friend or those who can help them. It is unethical, but not against the law. It happens every day, all the time, but I still don't think it is "right".
How do you make a law to protect against intent? Our country is failing because of a lack of ethics and a moral code. There is no law that can be created to protect against that.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Marc C. Port Jervis NY — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:03:44 GMT

Man the Dems stink with this one. Obamas financial advisors are in deep. Surprised it came out before the election. This too will be squashed. Obama is just one leak away from corruption.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Diana, Victor, Idaho — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:03:54 GMT

It seems like all the "wealthy" can get breaks and Countrywide wouldn't even accept an application from us when I became injured on the job and my husband was out of work for two months.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Mary Smith, Omaha, Nebraska — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:05:20 GMT

You have got to be kidding. I cannot believe that these very educated persons, Senators, etc. educated persons did not know they were getting a special deal? Who are they kidding? Ego and greed at play here.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Gary Chase Southington, Ct. 06489 — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:17:25 GMT

Senator Dodd said" I thought VIP meant better customer service". It did. However the part he left out is, it was better customer service for the Banking Committee Chairman. It also included a sweet interest rate and making exceptions because he's a Senator. No conflict of interest here! Hope it costs him his job! At the very least!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

linda morris — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:17:38 GMT

Well it seems that everyone got caught with their hand in the cookie jar and to say they had no knowledge that they were getting special deals is hog wash... My loan is with Countrywide and we received no special treatment and to think these people who put themselves on a pedisital above everyone else is just asking to be knocked off... We should vote all of these jockers out of office and elect Joe the Plummer.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

jimmy, minneapolis — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:18:29 GMT

Everyone is equal but some are more equal than others. Especially if you are deciding on incidentals like regulations and industy bail outs. Nice to know neither party has a lock on scruples.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Rex Sadler, New England, ND — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:18:59 GMT

I always thought Sen. Conrad was better than all the rest of the crooks in Washington but now I know better. It just goes to prove that there are only two types of elected officials, the crooks and the ones who haven't been caught yet.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Mel Lenhardt, Clinton Twp. Mi. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:19:22 GMT

I feel that the elected officials in this case as so many others that have come to light of late should be punished to the full extent of the law. I as a taxpayer cannot receive these types of deals, and if I were to get some special treatment, any explanations would have to be more than, "I didn't know I was getting this deal". How is it some simple for politicians to simply respond to any questions that it was just an oversight, or I wasn't aware? They are paid an amount that is not real substanial in todays ecomomy, but their net worth grow in leaps and bounds. How can this happen?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

PD Sacramento, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:20:12 GMT

Anybody that's been in business for themselves knows that when you give a client a "deal", you absolutely let them know about it. These politicians were getting perks while Countrywide screwed their regular clients.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Mary Williams, Denton, NC — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:34:03 GMT

My family just lost our home to foreclosure. Countrywide was the company we had it financed through. I am furious after reading this article! My husband lost his job when his company folded, and at his age, it took him a long time to find another one. When he finally did get a job it was at half is old salary. My salary wasn't enough to cover the difference. We struggled to keep the home we had lived in for years. I called Countrywide numerous times, trying to work out someway to keep the home we raised our children in. They were not only unsympathetic, but half the time I couldn't get anyone who spoke English clear enough to understand them. I spoke to one man who told us Countrywide didn't want to hear a sob-story, they just wanted their money. That was the tone of every call I made. We lost our home in September of this year, and are now living in a single-wide mobile home. My husband of 30 years, is kind, giving, and posseses a strong sense of responsiblity. Now he feels like a failure and is so depressed. Laughter doesn't come easily to him now, and I worry about him. Countrywide never treated us as real human beings. We were money lost or money gained. mary

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Mauricio Solorzano, McKinney, Texas — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:36:46 GMT

I have always had perfect credit, but 8 years ago, by the time I finally obtained a loan from Countrywide, I had already disclosed everything about me, my family, and all my earnings several times over. I got a good rate, but I had to wage a tough fight to get it ! Now that I learn this news, I feel sick that you need to be a "VIP" senator, or influential to get something decent from this Financial institutions - I believe the government has encouraged these institutions to plunder the middle class by bailing them out !

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Timothy Coughlin Indianapolis, Indiana — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:38:41 GMT

Why is it that when a Democrat is accused of wrongdoing their party affiliation is not included in the story? But when a Republican is implicated it is highlighted? Is there a bias in reporting against Republicans and trying to hide the Democrtas faults??????

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Barb N, St Louis, MO — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:38:59 GMT

I thought it was illegal to do investigative journalism in the United States. ;-)

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Kim, Daytona Beach, FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:39:04 GMT

I think it had to be illegal. Countrywide is a bunch of Crooks. They shafted so many Americans and they need to pay.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

shirley parker, ft. walton beach, fl — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:39:18 GMT

How do you all think countrywide became the biggest lender--certainly not because of their honesty, in the small area here, they gave realtors 2, 3 second home loans . paid them for their loans, and paid the builders advertising bills, kickbacks are a regular thing. If the FBI ever set down and researched the countywide records they would see that employees had many primary home loans, and second homes in 2,3 miles of their first homes. As a local lender they have cost me millions in lost income because I can not compete with fraud. I have report this to FBI,FHA, and VA and no one will get in here and check it out.I have even offered to show them how to find it on the internet--no response. Even their employees here are made to commit fraud in processing and underwriting or get fired,so one can only assume that that happens nationwide. When loan officers make 1,000,000's of dollars in comission in a small area of approx 100,000 residents,and I cam from a 5,000,000 resident and no loan officer there ever ever made a million in one year, you must ask your self how. Many of good qualified clients were referred down to their subprime division Spectrum Lending so they were put on higher closing cost, exotic loans, and much higer interest rates when there was no other reason than countrywide made more money. I how who ever is doing the investigation knows how to dig, and that is going to require Mortgage Lending experence.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

jimmy bones — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:39:26 GMT

i wonder if obama got v.i.p. treatment?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Frank , Mesa. AZ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:39:42 GMT

I have been with Countrywide for 5 years and I am upside down with my loan.C.W was very rude to us gave me two 30 day lates that where not my fault and only at the end when I wanted to give them my keys to my house did they want to help.Also in those 5 years I never missed a payment so to hear this makes me want to puke after what they put my family through...

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

neil FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:39:45 GMT

isn't Dodd the guy Obama said he looks to for financial advice?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

James S. Kansas — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:40:04 GMT

I scratch your back if you scratch mine, Some of
them need to visit BIG BUBBA in a PRISON.
I wonder if called CountryWide see if could get
some points off if they would finance my house?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

ExasperatedNonVIP, New York, NY — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:52:29 GMT

As an unfortunate Countrywide customer who was not in the VIP program I can tell you some of the 'benefits' non VIP's get:
*Unexplained massive jumps in escrow payments
*If your payment is late they will always call you the day after the $100 penalty kicks in just in case you would respond quickly and pay before the penalty
*Insurance being shunted off to Countrywide's own insurance company with way above market fees
*Infuriating customer service - although that is getting better now either because of the BoA influence (doubt that) or because the reps are being laid off and are starting to side with the poor customers

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Keith, Detroit, MI — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:52:39 GMT

This is what really bothers me. There are people who have to fight tooth and nail to feed their families and keep a roof over their head and there are people out there that are saving tens of thousands of dollars because they know someone. I can understand cutting a friend a break, but to use that as an advantage in a market such as the housing district is totally uncalled for. I'm not going to blame the people named in this article, outside of the ex-CEO, becuase nothing has been proven with certainty, but this only puts another black eye on the face of American politics...how much longer can we continue down the same path before we, as American citizens, say "that's the last straw."

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Paul Cmil, Allentown, PA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:52:51 GMT

Senators Conrad and Dodd reponses are laughable. Sounds just like Alaska Senator Stevens. Stevens is a Republican so he was found guilty. We epect corrupt behavior from Democrats. Elitists in government positions will take every dollar an American makes and put it in their pocket to buy votes. The frustrating part is that Americans keep electing them to office. The stupidity of the elctorate deserves the theives they get.
The press blames Corporate America for every problem. At least with a corporation I get something for my dollar, government officials just laugh at the voter all the way to the bank.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Ann Staeden, Brookhaven, Mississippi — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:07:53 GMT

At a time in American history when so many Americans struggle to get the "best deal" or even a manageable one...this is pathetic. Everyone that says they didn't know is not telling the truth. When this type of corruption and favoritism stops in America, maybe the common man will get somewhere...and even if he doesn't...he'll know he isn't the only one!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Steve Vaughan, Orlando, FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:08:04 GMT

WOW, and I though wasington was out to help. Maybe socialism isn't so bad,

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

MESIMPSON — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:08:59 GMT

Even if the recipients didn’t know they were getting the favors in this VIP program, that still doesn’t mean their special treatment wasn’t intended to be a bribe.

Countrywide was dirtier than a year old diaper. Working there must have felt like a variation of an old college stunt – how many crooks can you cram into one office.

I can’t wait to see Mozilo behind bars. I hope his cell mate is a 300 lb gay sex offender.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Justin, Meridian, MS — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:09:36 GMT

Any deals they recieved would have been against fair lending laws. You have to have explicit reasons for special rates. But it really isnt the customers fault Countrywide is the one who would get in any trouble and they are already down the toilet anyway.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

RJ Odenton, MD — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:32:05 GMT

These CEO's keep getting richer by stealing from hard working Americans and it keeps getting worse. Our % rates keep going up while they are operating under all this dishonesty and deception. Can't someone do something to halt existing mortgage % rates from increasing. Afterall, are we not in this mess because of deception by the mortgage companies? Basically the American public was taken advantage of and lied to. Some one ought to sue!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

bob snyder, chagrin falls, ohio — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:32:05 GMT

I bet this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Consumer confidence will improve when people start gettting proscecuted.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Marie Gefers, Billings, MT — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:33:38 GMT

I have gotten several mortgages & loans. I can't remember a time when a lender didn't tell me I was getting a "special" deal. I have good credit & expect to get a lower interest rate. I don't think these politicians thought they were getting any preferenial treatment either as they are words normally used by lenders.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Roger Smith, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:50:36 GMT

Having worked in the mortgage industry for over 30 years I have been associated with several companies. The one reason they were all in business was to make a profit. When a company starts making loans at a rate below there cost of funds, well the company goes out of business, or gets a government bail out. If these Senators, CEO's and public officials don't understand this basic business principal then were in real trouble. Don't tell me they didn't know what the market rate was when they got there loans. I've worked with some public officials and they let you know who they are right up front, just so you realise your not dealing with just any borrower.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

TD, Dallas, TX — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:53:07 GMT

I use to work for Countrywide. I'm sick at the fact I have to put the name of the company on my resume. That is why they are in the shape they are in.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Les Mondelli Nashville, TN. 37209 615-356-2511 — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:53:27 GMT

If this probe expands far enough to see how they treated their customers in the non vip program I'll gladly testify. With an ARM @ 9.03% and a spotless payment record with reasonably good credit (over 700) I was led along with promises of a good interest rate and low closing costs. I ended up having to find another lender as they continually put me off until the ARM adjusted and then stopped calling or returning my calls. Even if no laws were broken Mozilo and company should never be trusted under any circumstances.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

SeanT. Galion, Ohio — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:02:39 GMT

I beleive Senators Conrad and Dodd should resign immediately. They all should be prosecuted to the maximum extent of the law to include Raines and Johnson.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Paul Broome, Grain Valley, Missouri — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:03:50 GMT

It never ceases to amaze me as to how "brilliant" politicians are when they're wooing us for our vote, and how conveniently naive they suddenly become when caught in wrongdoing. What a pompus ass is Senator Dodd in claiming he didn't know what VIP implied,

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Jeannie Owens, Salt Lake City, Utah — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:03:58 GMT

Why should any government officials be able to get benefits. You have never offered me any benefits. I still have to pay off all of my mortgage as do all of the others that have a mortgage with you. Is that fair?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Steve Hovey Phoenix, Arizona — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:04:33 GMT

And we are supposed to believe that the elected officals spent all that money to get elected, just to help out the little guy. Yeah right, no one in their right mind can believe that people running for an office that only pays 60k to 500k per year, would spend millions of dollars without expecting some other kind of return on their investment. Really does not surprise me at all.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Julia Tulsa, OK — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:04:56 GMT

Hmmm, both are Democratic Senators. Both say they didn't know. Oh, okay then, it's no big deal. It's not a conflict of interest (Dodd is on financial committes in the Senate about lending and banking) and we should all just move on to a Republican scandal like the Alaskan Senator who didn't know he was getting a deal on his house renovation. How is this any different? The Republican was convicted and rightly so. My prediction is that it will blow over for these two.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Frank , Uhrichsville,OH — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:05:43 GMT

Must be nice to be in a VIP program, Countrywide tricked me and sold me a adjustable rate 80/20 loan that I could not afford a year later as they increased the rate, and refused to help me, so what do they do, turn down a shortsale of 127k on a 120k mortage and foreclose to a pending sheriff sale of 80k, thanks Countrywide, too bad I was not in the VIP program and recieved a fixed lower rate and no points! Praise to the FEDS on this investigation and shame on the loan officers that work for Countrywide and all the Leadership there.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Bruce, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:20:42 GMT

Sounds like Senator Dodd is a fan of "Seinfeld" with is response of "...he thought the VIP program just meant better customer service, and that he received market terms that he could have received from other lenders. The senator said in a press conference on the matter that if anyone had suggested at the time that he was receiving some kind of financial benefit on the loans because of his position, he would have terminated the relationship immediately."

Here's George Costanza talking about having sex with the office cleaner on his desk: "Was that wrong? Should I not have done that? I tell you, I gotta plead ignorence on this thing, because if anyone had said anything to me at all when I first started here that that sort of thing is frowned upon... you know, cause I've worked in a lot of offices, and I tell you, people do that all the time."

Sounds pretty much the same, doesn't it ??

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Richard_Ryan@countrywide.com — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:21:00 GMT

One point is not a big deal. That's the same favor any employee of countrywide received.
The free "Float down option" was standard business practice in the consumer divison of CFC for anyone.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

kim Achttien, bullhead, az — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:21:08 GMT

I'm waiting for help on the countrywide loan I have to bring it into reality without the high interest rate and a $10,000.00 early payoff clause. So Far mum is the word. Go figure the big guys gets all the breaks and deals. Live and Learn, put 'em away, vot'em out !

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Emily Dale, Franklin, North Carolina — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:21:11 GMT

This is an example of the widespread corruption and influence-peddling in corporate business that has dragged our nation into the economic gutters and generated scorn from our former allies.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Jack Smith, Delray Beach, FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:22:32 GMT

Blah blah blah... The mortgage industry is and has been a bunch of crooks, as have their enablers in Congress. But it was the unregulated Credit Default Swap (CDS) and Collateralized Debt Obligation (CDO) markets that ruined the economy. There's bi-partisan blame for the mess, but it rests mainly with Republicans and their "anything goes" mentality.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Graham, Anchorage — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:22:53 GMT

Conrad & Dodd never requested any favors? Wasn't that a Ted Stevens defense?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Wanda Kurtcu, Union City, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:23:20 GMT

Well, I had a mortgage w/ Countrywide last year and asked for help when my rate was changing. I was told that there was nothing they could do for me unless I defaulted on my loans. I had to go to another bank.

Oh well, special privileges, for special people. I am so disgusted with the current state of our country's economic situation.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Bell, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:23:49 GMT

This is a non issue. So someone got a $10,000 discount big deal. I'm sure if they would not have given it to him he still would of gone with Countrywide. Tell me that someone got a loan that they shouldn't then we have a story. Oh wait that is most of the country. Regular folks got loans they should not have. Why should we care that they got discounts on points or fees. I wish I knew someone who would give me that when I was shopping for a loan. That is why we have friends. We try to get good deals on cars and cell phones maybe you know someone who works in a department store and they buy items for you using their employee discount. Maybe you know someone who can offer your son or daughter a job. That is not a crime. Get more friends and better friends that can help you out.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Luke, Denver Colorado — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:24:32 GMT

This is shameful! The CEO showed his true colors when he said it was “disgusting” when an ordinary American was looking for help with the mortgage so he could continue making payments. CEO’s and business executives should be held accountable for their actions. When a company fails they should never get their bonus or buy out. They did not live up to their obligations and therefore did not fulfill their job discription. For normal americans, we lose out jobs when we do not perform out basic job duties. What has this country come too when senators and executives alike can get away with such practices?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Frank Hamrick, Springfield, Missouri — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:27:55 GMT

I feel this sort of thing is just the tip of the iceberg. Your efforts and other similar ones that are going on are welcomed, but unfortunately they will go away as soon as the election is over and the attention to Wall Street dissipates. I am for free markets, but our watchdog government has gone to sleep and may never awake, again. If Countrywide is free of any wrongdoing so be it, but in today’s environment the people on Main Street have a right to know.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

John Williams, Phoenix Arizona — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:28:08 GMT

"DISGUSTING"!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

nate — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:28:32 GMT

"...four former Cabinet members spanning Democratic and Republican administrations" received these loans. Um, three of the four were in Clinton's Cabinet; Dodd and and Conrad are both Democrats; Franklin Raines works for Obama's campaign.

I don't think politicians in general have many positive attributes, but when the "party of the people" is run by a bunch of hacks taking special treatment from the leader of an industry now in the toilet, I question whether they have my best interests at heart or their own. Didn't Obama get a special deal on his house too? I forget.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

R McGuire, Cleveland, Ohio — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:29:57 GMT

So Typical - The best & the brightest always claim ignorance when caught in the headlights!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Owen Daniel, Fort Worth TX — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:30:24 GMT

Once again, the taxpayers get to support the lifestyles of the rich & corrupt. How about some prison sentences for all Members of Congress who recieved a discounted loan? Or worse---kick them out and make them do as Sen McCain once suggested to those in a personal financial crunch: Get a second job; delay your vacation.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

susan doe, Rochester, New York — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:30:28 GMT

Of course "they" receive special treatment. I find it unbelievable that these elected officials are alway stunned when the entitlments come to light. While "we the people" pay for bailouts, lose our homes and jobs, can't afford health care, these very special friends seem to expect special treatment and never look into what it means.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

alan pritchard, crystal lake IL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:31:02 GMT

Not surprised, the majority of politicians not only are crooks but can lie with a straight face. Really, how else would they get elected. They make promises that they know they can't keep, and they back-stab each other just to get elected. Just look at the infomercials on TV.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Tyler Hoad, Fullerton, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:31:36 GMT

"I Just thought VIP meant better customer service..." Yeah, right. If I don't ask what benefit I'm getting, then I can deny it, right? Isn't it insulting that we would villify an athlete for "unwittingly" ingesting steroids, but be expected to excuse the same type criminal behavior from the very lynch mob that is conviting those athletes... Does anyone care anymore that the very officals we are trusting with our country's security and "rescue" are secretly slipping us hemlock as we drink their remedies?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Larry, albuquerque, NM — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:31:38 GMT

Just another reason to throw out all the scum in the House and Senate every election.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Edward — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:31:59 GMT

"Its Disqusting" says Angelo of the 'common' person to ask for help on the current mortgage. Incredible!, "The common person" Who does this person think he is? Jeez well Angelo alot of those Common people that did not get help are now on the streets, sad state of affairs we have today and no one wants to admit to it. The so called goverment feel good programs such as project hope are a waste of time.. Hope the VIPs feel good about themselfs. Such as it is history is repeating itself Hail Ceaser! (sic) I'll say one last thing Countrywide and other Mortgage companies and banks now can wallor in the now decreped empty homes. Oh and by the way Mortgage by the word itself is Latin Mort is Death and Gage is Pledge figure it out for yourself

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Marybell — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:32:12 GMT

I am sad to say I have my loan through this bank. This is why our economy is in such a horrible position.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

sooz, Arizona — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:32:38 GMT

Corruption, deceit,special favors - it's what big business is all about. Too bad the horse has already left the barn. No one can see it until it's too late.
Deregulation- ain't it grand?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Markie of Cleveland OH — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:32:54 GMT

That is a great way of influencing politicans to do Countrywide favors. Disgusting!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

l.williams,wash,d.c. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:33:46 GMT

So you mean that F Raines of Fannie Mae didn't know his rate was better than anyone else's oh that right he walked away with 12.5 mill all before the collapse...wow wonder if he saw any of this coming???

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

T. Layman — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:34:12 GMT

Angelo Mozilo and the rest of the Countrywide scum family should be sentenced to poverty for the rest of their miserable lives. Jail is too easy: They get sent to a country club for a few years, they get out and are reunited with the money they stole hard working people.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

David, New seabury, MA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:35:45 GMT

no surprise to me..what is surprising is that you people trust these people with your Money and how to run the goverment..they do NOT have our best interest at heart. therefore you they should only be given the minimum of tax money to run the goverment (degense, social security, Medicare, special Ed..) not the gambit of special interest they serve..We need to wake up before its took late..

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Tom, Monterey CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:35:47 GMT

I serve on a local advisory committee for a government regulatory agency with no compensation whatever. However, I am required to attend periodic training to insure that I understand and comply with conflict of interest rules, gifts, etc. I also am required to take and document having taken similar training for my job at a private corporation. I find it hard to believe that elected officials, particularly US senators can claim ingnorance to these rules! These claims are outright lies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Lisa Loe, Thousand Oaks, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:37:00 GMT

Isn't Chris Dodd the senator who came on national TV when they were debating the first $700 Billion bailout and said it was the Republicans who created this mess??? I believe any public official who was involved in this mess and personally benefited from this crisis should be stripped of their office and prosecuted. Give me a break... does Chris Dodd think the American people are stupid?... he didn't know? What a joke !!!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Joyce C Phoenix, Arizona — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:37:25 GMT

Why is it not surprising that we are finding this kind of behavior. No wonder these guys want to stay in office. Look at all the perks they get. And, of course they are not going to say they expected them. But, of course they expected them. It doesn't matter whether these guys are democrat or republican, they need to be outed. These guys are responsible for looking the other way and letting our country sink into this recession or possibly even a depression. I am so fed up with the whole lot of them. Now it will be coverup, coverup, coverup and blame someone else for what they did. Emough!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Honest lender suffering from Washington greed — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:38:36 GMT

Senator's Dodd and Conrad are bold face liars and they are insulting our intelligence with there weak response to the benefits of a VIP or FOA favors that they had full understanding of.
This resembles there argument for all of the poor,poor people that didn't understand the terms of the subprime loan and greedy lenders that persuaded them into the deal. Simply put..LIES

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

EJD Tobyhanna, PA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:38:48 GMT

Sanctimoniuos Dodd lectures about the failed Bush policies as the root of the mortgage meltdown, and the media simply played PR agent for him. We let him lead the committee to draft the saving legislation. Maybe he will be nomonated for the Nobel Peace Prize, just like his former cohort Gore, who has us making fuel from food while thousands starve!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Steve S, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:38:52 GMT

Why would you say "four former Cabinet members spanning Democratic and Republican administrations" when only one of them is a Republican? And then not identify all the others mentioned in the story as Democrats? The Countywide/Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac affair is a Democratic party scandal which the party is trying to sweep under the rug and NBC is helping them do it by making it appear to be non or bipartisan. Thanks for finally running this however even if it is about a month old.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Chris Zimmerman Wichita, Ks — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:39:48 GMT

Although it may not be ethical, VIP clients should expect favorable offers from their friends when it comes to making deals. So why do they act surprised and go into denial when they “discover” they received a discount?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Dave Canandaigua,Ny — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:40:34 GMT

this is why we need an independant oversite board that can watch congress

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

DW Keene, NH — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:42:21 GMT

Perfect...and in the meantime Countrywide's "boiler room" tactics to regular mortgage holders have raised even more money for the company ! This is a real example. A Countrywide employee called me and offered me a 3/4 percentage point lower mortgage that would also erase my relatively small amount of debt and lower my payment. I put the "application fee" on my credit card, then a Countrywide chosen "appraiser" met me at the house. He had been there for about 5 minutes...spent another 10 minutes inside the home and then departed. Fast forward 2 weeks later...loan denied because of "insufficient property value". In fact this guy's appraisal came in 30K lower than the city assessment which usually NEVER happens, especially in my neighborhood. BUT...Countrywide got their $350 "appraisal fee" because it was "non-refundable". I wonder how many other customers have been stung by this scam ? So why am I not surprised that other nefarious business acts have been hatched by this company ?

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Sherry,Moline,Illinois — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:42:58 GMT

Well it's about time someone gets investigated in this mess. Now it's AIG's turn. When your done there don't forget all the financial institutions,including wallstreet and of course all the politicians.
It is high time that white collar crime and the elite who commit these crimes find out they are not above the law.It is time the law and the punishment is applied to these elitist just like they would apply to the average Joe.
This is exactly why I think lobbying should be illegal.These corporations give special favors and contributions to politicians in return for favored legislation which in my opinion is a bribe. When all is said and done,no matter who is guilty,no matter if laws were broke,no matter if there were conflicts of interest,no matter if anything that occurred is deemed unethical. The parties involved will walk away with a slap on the wrist,their pockets lined, and the bill like always ends up going to the nations tax payers. This is highway robbery and it needs to stop.The people involved are the ones who should be paying the bill not the tax payers.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

2497 Inez Way, Antioch, CA 94531 — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:43:40 GMT

This article has gotten me angrier and angrier since I am a regular, nobody Countrywide customer who is in one of those bad loans and faced with a foreclosure. In 2007 when I realized I was in a bad loan I did everything Countrywide asked me to do so that they could help me re-finance into a better loan. They turned me down COLD about 6 months later after they said they would help me. I was MORTIFIED! So thinking I would lose my house, I bought a bigger, more beautiful house because I have excellent credit and am renting out the house Countrywide is financing. I got a letter from Countrywide not too long ago saying they could probably help me because now I am renting that house out. But I am worried about my tenant who lost their house and are now renting my house. I want to keep that house, but if Countrywide doesn't help me I will lose it and have to kick out the tenants. What I am going through IS HORRIFIC TO ME, and to read this article is pouring gasoline onto fire!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Eric Steward — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:44:09 GMT

Bell, Did you not hear Mr. Feinberg's statement. Countrywide wanted to buy influence with thses people that were in a position to help them. Thats is the definition of corruption!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Amanda, Savannah,GA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:45:32 GMT

Of course, they are going to give Senators and other people in business great deals. What better way to have them looking at the right hand and not see what their left hand is doing to the rest of the country.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

B. Kennedy, Nashua, NH — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:59:45 GMT

I have to agree with the other blogger. I am going
to find out who all the incumbents are this election and vote against them all! Washington is
fueled with greed and corruption and the only way to get change is to vote them out every term.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Joyce Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:00:10 GMT

Whether there was deregulation or not, these people should have seen this coming and yelled foul. No, they were too busy getting their perks and looking the other way. Obama's own financial chairperson, Penny Pritzker, ran a bank into the ground doing these subprime loans back in 2002. So why wasn't the alarm sounded then? No, these congress people didn't want it to end. The banks and mortgage companies weren't done getting all their fat bonuses for making these loans. They now want to blame us for getting into these bad loans and not paying our mortgage payments. I still say nobody made these banks make bad loans except greed. And the politicians were too busy getting their perks to watch out for us ordinary people who are dumb enough to keep sending them back to Washington. Stop looking at this mess as a democrat or republican. Look at this mess as how it has affected your job, your family and your way of life. This is not a party line issue. This is your lives and your childrens' lives.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Fred Barnett — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:05:09 GMT

I was a loan officer for a mortgage co. and what you are discussing is common practice we did it at my firm and just about everyone else is doing it as well including Bank of America. We did VIP mortgages and a friend of mine who worked at Fleet Bank explained that they treated the well to do clients of the bank completely different than the average customer. These VIP mortgages included all of the things you mentioned above plus. This is certainly not fair and I did not think it was right. This is small potatoes though compared to the adjustable and interest only weapons of destruction that they asked us to pimp out to John Q. Average. This is just another case of why the rich will keep getting richer and somehow the GOP still can cast a spell over idiots like Joe the Almost a plumber who will never be in there club. Anyway all this deception was too much for me so I quit, and then took a long hot shower.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Linda Oakley, Carrollton, Texas — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:05:42 GMT

Good friends of mine lost their home at foreclosure auction after their CW rep told them he was processing the refinancing, but left on vacation and left their papers on his desk. They found out their home had been sold at auction when the woman who bought it for pennies on the dollar knocked on their door and informed them they had days to pack up, find a new home, and move!!! COLD and Unfeeling. My friends were devastated!!!!! I'm VERY glad someone is finally investigating them.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Marc, Sacramento, CA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:06:07 GMT

Is it too late to get on this list? I'm in need of some loan modifications- What if i say Angelo's my friend will this help- even though he doesnt work there anymore

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Fred Barnett — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:08:13 GMT

Oh and by the way America if you think anyone of any substance is going to jail for this you are kidding yourself.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

bobinhouse@bellsouth.net — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:08:14 GMT

Countrywide has really got me in a pickle.I am now upside down on my mortgage and they won't talk to me.I need some help here..(Bob Williamson,Orlando Florida)

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Don Toronto Canada — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:15:47 GMT

re: Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program
Sen.s Obama and Dodd are by far the biggest recipients of campain contributions from Fanny and Freddie. What a surprise!!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Mick Power, Medford, OR — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 20:17:21 GMT

I used to be with Countrywide and after a few years switched to another company. I repeatedly received begging e-mails to come back to them even from some VP. So... I asked a question... "What was the yield spread?" Folks, they stopped e-mailing me after that because they knew I was esentially asking them what it was costing me to line their agents pockets....and folks ... it's a lot. It's time to have complete disclosure from an industry that's had its day "thieving" from the likes of "Joe the plumber"... essentially you and me. I say to the Feds..go get 'em and then return the difference that we were charged over and above those fat cats.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Kathy , Peoria, IL — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:28:51 GMT

I am a former Countrywide employee. Not all Coutrywide offices were bad. Our office conducted business in a fair and professional way. We ALWAYS made sure the customers knew exactly what type of loan they were getting. We complied with regulations making sure that everyone received equal treatment. It saddens me to learn that not everyone in the company did business like we did.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

No Name , Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:29:36 GMT

Not a single thing will happen to them,and we will keep loosing our homes. Countrywide will not work with anyone until your late on your payments or your about to be forclosed on. Then they want more from you than you can afford and are very rude to you while your trying to work with them so you can pay your loan.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Eugenia Pasko, Dunmore, PA — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:30:03 GMT

Hope the politicians also got their identities stolen by shady Countrywide employees like we and several hundred thousand other Countrywide customers did. The government is doing absolutely nothing about this either!!! God bless America!!!!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

AIN"T PAYIN Colorado Springs — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 22:40:17 GMT

This Housing issue just will not stop. These overpaid people in government think they are above the law. I say all taxpaying people should unite and refuse to pay our taxes until the government cleans its act up. I AIN"T PAYIN

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Shell, Madison, WI — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:30:05 GMT

So, no one is responsible for not making their payments? No one signed mortgage papers that clearly stated they were on an ARM? Payments were made late through "no fault of their own"? Geez - it has become really easy to lay the blame on everyone but yourself for not making a mortgage payment - but surely your nice new truck payment gets made on time! Wake up people! You make a choice on what bills to pay - take some responsibility for your choices, or are we to believe that Americans are too stupid to know what they are signing? If the loan was not what was promised, walk away!

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

Francis J Barrett III, Trenton, New Jersey — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 22:40:43 GMT

I knew they were crooks and shady characters, but just how bad I never knew until I ran into problems and they offered to help. I was a few months behind in my payments and they offered to put those payments at the end of my loan. I had to send over $2,ooo dollars and sign I don't know how many forms to be initialed, notarized and so forth. The end result was a higher monthly payment and they increased my percentage rate. They haven't helped me one bit. They just made it more difficult for me to keep up. Thanks Countrywide.

Feds probe Countrywide's 'VIP' program

DC, Thorndale, PA — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 17:19:01 GMT

Though I am a little late on catching up on my emails (this article was emailed to me by a friend at work), I am no less "disgusted"...to use the words of Mr. Mazilo. I'll tell you what "distgusts" me, is that fact that my husband and I have had a home loan with Countrywide for 18 years now. Last year my husband lost a job, because the company was going under, they couldn't make payroll and sent all the employees home with NO MONEY. We have an excellent past with CW, to the point they were always calling, wanting to give us home equity lines of credit, but when we asked for some time to get the mortgage payment in (for the first time in 18 years it would ever be late), we were given no breaks. We were told to make a complete FULL payment or expect problems with our credit. Hey, thanks CountryWide! Good to know that you value loyalty. All of this corrupiton is the reason the country is in the state it's in. Not the hardworking people who have actually bought things they could afford and honored their financial obligations.