HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-06-25 - AGENDA REPORTS - MULTI FAMILY REHAB PGM (2)City Manager Approval• ��
George A. Caravalho
Item to be presented by;
Sarona Becker
CONSENT CALENDAR
DATE: June 25, 1996
SUBJECT: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - MULTI FAMILY .REHABILITATION
PROGRAMS
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
The City's award of State HOME Program for Multi Family Rehabilitation funds was partly
based upon the City's ability to administer this program. Since the City does not have this
capability in house, the application for these funds stated that the City would enter into a
contract with a specialist to administer the program. As a result, Requests for Proposals (RFP)
were solicited from professionals with demonstrated experience in implementing multi family
residential rehabilitation programs, specifically using HOME Program funds.
The RFP sought a specialist with the ability to provide for immediate administration of the
City's HOME Program for Multi Family Rehabilitation and the CDBG Supplemental
Appropriation funded Multi Rehabilitation Loan Program. The RFP requested such services as
general program administration, inspections, construction management, work write ups, loan
application intake and processing, loan servicing, and disbursements.
The announcement of the RFP was advertised in local papers, and mailed to a list of firms who
have previously expressed an interest in working for the City. Eighteen firms received copies
of the RFP. Of these firms, four submitted proposals, which were reviewed at the staff level.
Each of the firms was asked to compete in the interview phase of the selection process.
A panel was assembled to interview the firms. The panel consisted of Ken Pulskamp, Assistant
City Manager; Jan Bear, Senior Building Engineer; and Sarona Becker, Administrative Analyst.
Panelmembers were provided with copies of each proposal prior to the interviews, and were
encouraged to ask questions regarding any part of the proposals or presentations.
On May 6, 1996, the panel participated in a half-day interview process involving the following
four firms: GRC Copenhaver, Inc. of Diamond Bar; Rehab Financial Corporation of Fountain
Valley; United States Escrow Community Services Group of Downey; and Willdan Associated
of Industry. These firms were interviewed based upon the informationcontained in their
10 � DEED Agenda Item:
proposals describing their experience with similar housing rehabilitation projects. Due diligence
was performed on each of the firms, with staff conducting reference checks on the qualifications
of each.
The firm of United States Escrow Community Services Group (USECSG) was selected by the
panel based upon several factors. USECSG has considerable experience in the administration
of HOME Program rehabilitation loan services to cities including Fontana, La Mirada, Ontario,
Pomona, Thousand Oaks, Santa Ana, San Bernardino, and Ventura, and has administered
contracts under the California Disaster Assistance Program following the Whittier Earthquake,
the San Francisco Earthquake, and the Oakland Fire. United States Escrow Community
Services Group offers all of the services needed to effectively administer this program including
comprehensive monthly reporting, licensed personnel, and computerized records management.
The superintendent assigned to this project is a City of Santa Clarita resident. Additionally,
USECSG administers the City's HOME Program for Disaster Relief and Major Rehabilitation
Loan Programs.
Staff is recommending that the City Council authorize a contract for professional services with
United States Escrow Community Services Group to implement both the HOME Program for
Multi Family Rehabilitation and the Multi Family Rehabilitation Program. The source of funds
for this contract will be the HOME Program for Multi Family Rehabilitation, a portion of which
is allowed for administration expenses, and the CDBG Supplemental Appropriation. A proposed
contract and scope of work which have been agreed upon by United States Escrow Community
Services Group are available in the reading file in the City Clerk's office.
The amount of compensation for the implementation of this program is based upon several
factors, including the number of rental units in a given project and the title holder. There is no
set fee available for this program, as the fees charged will depend upon property ownership and
number of units. These fees will be rolled into the loans, and paid by the borrowers. The
compensation of United States Escrow Community Services Group will be according to the
following scheduler
Loan Processing costs of projects less than 12 units:
Properties owned by Individuals or Married Couples/Sole Proprietors - $1,955 per loan
closed.
Properties owned by Corporations - $2,055 per loan closed.
Properties owned by Partnerships - $2,255 per loan closed.
Properties owned by Limited Partnerships - $2,655 per loan closed.
Loan Processing costs of projects more than 12 units:
Projects of 12 units and more shall be compensated at the above schedule plus $30.00 per
unit for loan processing..
Construction Management Costs
Construction Management services will be compensated at a cost of 15% of the project
amount for projects o 14 units, not to exceed $9,000 per project. Construction management
services will be compensated at a cost of 10% of the project amount for projects of 5 or more
units, not to exceed $15,000 per project.
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Award a contract with United States Escrow Community Services Group in an amount
not to exceed $82,000 dollars ($75,000 plus 10% contingency amount) to perform multi
family rehabilitation services for the City funded by the HOME Program for Multi
Family Rehabilitation and the CDBG Emergency Supplemental Appropriation, and:
2. Authorize the City Manager to sign all documents with reference to the execution and
administration of this contract.
ATTACHMENTS
The proposed contract and scope of work for this project are available in the reading file in the
City Clerk's office.
home\052596.agn
AGREEMENT FOR
HOUSING CONSULTING SERVICES
between
THE CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
and
UNITED STATES ESCROW COMMUNITY SERVICES GROUP
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into this day of 1996, by and
between the City of Santa Clarita (hereinafter called "Agency"), and United States Escrow
Community Services Group, a California professional corporation (hereinafter called
"Consultant").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, Agency desires to undertake the Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program
for Multi Family Rehabilitation and the Multi Family Rehabilitation Program, two programs
that provide earthquake rehabilitation loans to owners of multi family property, and which
services require a level of staff support presently unavailable to Agency; and
WHEREAS, Consultant represents that it is qualified to perform the services contained, it is
mutually agreed between the parties as follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, and in consideration of mutual covenants hereinafter contained, it is
mutually agreed between the parties as follows:
COVENANTS
ARTICLE I. SCOPE OF SERVICES
Consultant shall perform professional services as are directed by the authorized Agency
representatives, and as described in the attached Exhibit A.
ARTICLE II. AMENDMENTS TO SCOPE OF SERVICES
Agency may request changes in the Scope of Services to be performed hereunder. Such changes,
including any increase or decrease in the rate of Consultant's compensation, shall be mutually
agreed upon by and between Agency and Consultant and shall be incorporated in written
amendments to this Agreement.
ARTICLE III. CONSULTANT'S COMPENSATION AND METHOD OF PAYMENT
For services provided pursuant to Article I, of this Agreement, Consultant shall be compensated
at the following schedule, payable within thirty (30) days following receipt of Consultant's
invoice.
Loan Processing for Projects less than 12 Units:
Properties owned by Individuals or Married Couples/Sole Proprietors - $1,955 per loan
closed.
Properties owned by Corporations - $2,055 per loan closed.
Properties owned by Partnerships - $2,255 per loan closed..
Properties owned by Limited Partnerships - $2,655 per loan closed..
Loan Processing for Projects more than 12 Units:
Projects of 12 units or more are to be compensated per the above schedule plus an
additional $30.00 per unit. -
Construction Management
Construction Management services will be provided at a cost of 15% of the project
amount for projects of 1 4 units, not to exceed $9,000 per project. Construction
Management services will be provided at a cost of 10% of the project amount for projects
of 5 -10 units, not to exceed $15,000 per project.
Invoices will describe services provided and the time required for each service..
ARTICLE IV. TIME OF PERFORMANCE
Consultant agrees that it will diligently and responsibly pursue the performance of the services
required of him by this Agreement. If a delay beyond the control of Consultant is encountered,
a time extension mutually agreed upon in writing by Agency and Consultant may be granted.
Consultant shall present documentation satisfactory to Agency to substantiate any request for
a time extension.
ARTICLE V. COOPERATION BY AGENCY
All information, data, reports, records, and maps that are existing, available and necessary for
carrying out the work as outlined in the Scope of Services shall be furnished to Consultant
without charge by Agency. Agency shall cooperate with Consultant in every way possible to
facilitate, without undue delay, the work to be performed under this Agreement.
ARTICLE VI. DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVES
The following individuals are hereby designated as representatives of Agency and Consultant
respectively to act as liaison between the parties:
Agenc Consultan
City of Santa Clarita United States Escrow Community Services Group
George A. Caravalho, City Manager Gary Parsons, President
Any change in designated representatives shall be promptly reported to the other party in order
to ensure proper coordination of the project.
ARTICLE VII. STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE
Consultant shall comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, and codes of the federal, state, and
local governments while performing the services described herein in a good, skillful, and
professional manner.
ARTICLE VIII, OWNERSHIP OF DOCUMENTS
All reports, files, and other material prepared under this Agreement shall be and remain the
property of the Agency.
ARTICLE IX. AUTHORITY OF CONSULTANT
Consultant shall be an independent contractor and shall not incur or have the power to incur
any debt, obligation, or liability whatsoever against Agency.
Consultant shall, as required, represent the Agency as its agent in contracts, solicitations, and
negotiations concerning the implementation of the Santa Clarita HOME Program for Multi
Family Rehabilitation and the Multi Family Rehabilitation Program, but Consultant shall be
without authority to bind Agency in any way with respect to terms, conditions, sale prices, times
of performance, or any other matter related to Agency's legal liability or performance with
respect to the implementation of the Santa Clarita HOME Program HOME Program for Multi
Family Rehabilitation and the Multi Family Rehabilitation Program for Multi :Family
Rehabilitation and the Multi Family Rehabilitation Program.
ARTICLE X. TERMINATION
Either party may terminate this Agreement upon thirty (30) days' written notice to the other..
In the event of such termination, Consultant shall be compensated for all services performed
and expenses incurred to the date of notice of termination as described in a written report to
Agency prepared by Consultant, less any amounts previously paid by Agency.
ARTICLE XI. NOTICES
Notice by Agency to Consultant shall be deemed delivered if sent by certified mail, return
receipt requested to United States Escrow, 8121 E. Florence Avenue, Downey, California 90240.
Notice by Consultant to Agency shall be deemed delivered if sent by certified mail, return
receipt requested to the Community Development Department, City of Santa Clarita, 23920
Valencia Boulevard, Suite 300, Santa Clarita, California 91355.
ARTICLE XIL CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Consultant represents and agrees that Consultant has not employed any person to solicit or
procure this Agreement, and has not made, and will not make, any payment of any agreement
for the payment of any commission, percentage; brokerage, contingent fees, or other
compensation in connection with the procurement of this Agreement. Consultant further
represents and agrees that he has not now, and will not, acquire any interest, direct or indirect,
present or prospective, in any of the property acquired by Agency, during the term of this
Agreement. Consultant further represents that it has not employed, and will not employ in
connection with work to be performed hereunder, any person having an interest, direct or
indirect, in any of the property acquired by Agency during the term of this Agreement and
Consultant will notify Agency of and will not work on any projects which may represent or
appear to represent a conflict of interest with any other municipal client of Consultant.
ARTICLE XIII, INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Consultant shall obtain and maintain during the life of this Agreement automobile liability,
including owned, hired, and non -owned vehicles, except as may be stricken out by Agency.
Endorsement shall be obtained for the policies providing the above insurance for the following
provisions;
1. Additional Insureds
"The City of Santa Clarita, Santa Clarita, California, its elected and
appointed boards, officers, agents, and employees are additional insureds
with respect to this subject project and contract with Agency."
2. Notice
"Said policy shall not terminate, nor shall it be canceled, nor the coverage
reduced, until thirty (30) days after written notice is given to Agency."
3. Limits
The policy limits shall have minimum coverage per occurrence as follows:
$100,000 - Property Damage;
$250,000 - Injury to One Person/Any Once Occurrence; and
$500,000 - Injury to More Than One Person/Any One Occurrence
4. Errors and Omissions Insurance to protect up to $1,000,000 per occurrence of
uninsured damage from fire and/or flood. This shall apply whether Consultant
is impounding for insurance and neglects in the timely payment of hazards or if
the borrower does not make payment and there is a resulting lapse of insurance
on the property.
5. Comprehensive Business Liability Insurance to cover loss up to $1,000,000 per
occurrence to protect City and related entities from damages arising from any
actions of Consultant.
In addition to the insurance coverage in the paragraphs above, Consultant shall obtain and
maintain, during the life of this Agreement, Workers' Compensation Insurance in statutory
amount. All of the endorsements which are required above shall be obtained for the policy of
Workers' Compensation Insurance. Consultant shall provide to Agency certificates of insurance
showing the insurance coverage described in the paragraphs above, in a form and content
approved by Agency, prior to beginning work under this Agreement.
ARTICLE XIV: INDEMNIFICATION CLAUSE
The Consultant agrees to, and shall defend, indemnify, protect and hold harmless the City, its
elective and appointive boards, officers, officials, employees, agents and volunteers from and
against any and all claims, demands, losses, defense cost, fines, penalties, expenses, causes of
action and judgments at law or in equity, or liability of any kind or nature which the City, its
elective and appointive boards, officers, officials, employees, agents and volunteers may sustain
or incur or which may be imposed upon them for injury to or death of persons, or damage to
property arising out of Consultant's negligent or wrongful act or omission under the terms of
this Agreement, excepting only liability arising out of the sole negligence of the City.
ARTICLE XV. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Agreement shall constitute the entire Agreement between the parties. Any amendments
to or clarification necessary to this Agreement shall be in writing and acknowledged by both
parties to the Agreement.
ARTICLE XVI. MISCELLANEOUS
If either party to this Agreement is required to initiate or defend or is made a
party to any action or proceeding in any way connected with this Agreement, the
prevailing party in such action or proceeding, in addition to any other relief which
may be granted, whether legal or equitable, shall be entitled to reasonable
attorneys' fees. Attorneys' fees shall include attorneys' fees on any appeal, and
in addition, the party entitled to attorneys' fees shall be entitled to all other
reasonable costs for investigating such action, taking depositions and discovery
and all necessary costs the Court allows in such litigation. All such fees shall be
deemed to have accrued on commencement of such action and shall be
enforceable whether or not such action is prosecuted to judgment.
Consultant agrees that each task as outlined in the work program shall be staffed
by members of Consultant's team who are qualified and have the necessary
experience to competently perform the task in a manner satisfactory to Agency.
C. Subcontracts
Consultant may employ subcontractors to perform tasks required in the work
program with prior notification and approval by the City.
No officer or employee of City shall be personally liable to the Consultant, or any
successor in interest, in the event of any default or breach by the City for any
amount which may become due to Consultant or its successor, or for breach of
any obligation of the terms of this Agreement.
This Agreement shall be construed and interpreted both as to validity and to
performance under the laws of the State of California. Any and all legal actions
concerning any dispute, claim, or matter arising out of or in relation to this
Agreement shall be instituted in the Superior Court of the County of Los Angeles,
State of California, or any appropriate Court in such County. Consultant
covenants and agrees to submit to the personal jurisdiction of such Court in the
event of such action.
F. Co=liance With Federal Reeulations. It is the responsibility of the Consultant
to comply with all Federal overlay requirements, including Equal Opportunity
and Fair Housing, Affirmative Marketing, Environmental Review, Lead -Based
Paint, Lobbying, Drug -Free Workplace, Conflict of Interest, and Procurement.
G. Compliance With Milestones. It is the responsibility of the Consultant to follow
the timelines as illustrated in the Milestone Activity Chart, attached as Exhibit
B.
H. Compliance With Policies and Procedures Man ual. It is the responsibility of the
Consultant to comply with all provisions of the City of Santa Clarita Home
Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program for Multi Family Rehabilitation and
Major Rehabilitation Program Policies and Procedures Handbook, attached as
Exhibit C.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Consultant and Agency have signed this Agreement on the date
set forth hereinabove.
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
George A. Caravalho
City Manager
Date
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Approved as to form
City Attorney
UNITED STATES ESCROW
Lo
bome\mntracluse.
Gary Parsons, President
EXFIIBIT A
SCOPE OF SERVICES
AND FLOW OUTLINE
LOAN PROCESSING/UNDERWRITING AND CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT
INTRODUCTION
AGENCY DIRECT DEFERRED LOANS
In order to assist the needs of owners of rental property who sustained
damage as a result of the Northridge Earthquake, the Agency will make
available deferred loans to such owners where the tenants are of low
and moderate income. The responsibility of making prudent loans,
coupled with the Agency's objective to assist low and moderate income
household whenever possible, must be balanced carefully in terms of
an underwriting analysis. USE is very sensitive to the political issues
the Agency faces and has customized its loan processing services to
that end.
APPLICATION INTAKE
U.S.E. will determine initial eligibility of applicants in accordance with
the HOME and CDBG Program regulations. USE shall obtain and
document the following:
• Income eligibility of rental units (rental receipts)
• Property loan to value ration (appraisal)
• Proof of Ownership (Deed of Trust)
• Rehabilitation specifications for work covered under program
(construction management)
• Contractor bids/material cost estimates for work under program
(lowest responsible bid, minimum of 3)
• U.S.E.'s estimate of work
• Preliminary documents for loan approval:
Fair lending notices
Title reports
Appraisals
PRELEMOINARY RISK ANALYSIS
A preliminary risk analysis will be developed initially by ordering and
reviewing Title Reports for clear title and liens, appraisals for
determining values, and rental information including fair market rents
and income of tenants for determining income. If applicant is not
eligible for a deferred loan according to lending criteria, Agency will be
notified by a Preliminary Risk Analysis. The decision will be turned
over to the Agency whether to proceed (by exception) or cancel the
transaction.
INTRODUCTION
With expanding regulatory requirements, shrinking budgets, and
limited staffing, many agencies contract with construction
management professionals to conduct the complex and demanding
tasks inherent in the rehabilitation process. United States Escrow
(USE) can provide professional construction rehabilitation services
from initial inspection and work write up to contractor selection and
final progress inspections. All phases of the rehabilitation process will
occur in time frames consistent with the Agency's program design.
INITIAL INSPECTION
Upon receipt of a Request for Inspection from Agency, inspection
personnel will contact the borrower and schedule an appointment to
inspect the property according to Agency specifications and program
criteria. Inspection personnel will note Health and Safety code
violations and discuss general property improvements and program
procedures with the borrower according to Agency program design to
establish the scope of work. Inspection personnel will provide a
written analysis and itemized cost estimate where damage to the unit
appears to have affected the structural integrity of the unit. In
addition, an inspection by a registered structural engineer will be
arranged.
CONTRACTOR SELECTION
Inspection personnel will provide borrower with copies of the approved
work write up to be used by the borrower to obtain three bids from
qualified general contractors approved by the Agency. Inspection
personnel will assist borrower within the scope of the program. The
borrower will submit selected contractor bids and eligibility
verifications (contractor licensing and insurance) to inspection
personnel for review and approval of cost reasonableness. Upon
inspection approval, the Agency will give final approval/denial of the
bid selection and submit to intake personnel. The intake personnel
will notify the contractor of the successful bid and coordinate with
USE for completion of the final underwriting approval.
PRECONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE
Intake personnel will provide for the execution of all necessary loan
document with homeowner. Inspection personnel will schedule a
preconstruction conference with borrower and contractor During the
preconstruction conference the borrower and contractor will sign the
construction contract. The contractor will receive the Notice to
Proceed and instructions on procedures for progress and final
payments. Requirements for progress payments will include the
submission of a Request for Inspection and Payment, Lien Releases,
certificates, and permits.
PROGRESS PAYMENT INSPECTIONS
To receive a progress payment during construction, the contractor will
submit to inspection personnel a Request for Inspection, Lien
Releases, certificates, and permits. Inspection personnel will submit
an Authorization for Payment to intake personnel for Agency approval
signed by borrower and contractor (contractor signature optional).
Upon final approval, intake personnel will forward Authorization for
Payment to USE for disbursement of progress payment, or to Agency's
Finance Department, whichever is applicable. All change orders must
be approved by inspection personnel and Agency. Inspection
personnel will provide before and after photographs to document
completed work. In addition, inspection personnel will deal with
borrower and contractor in the resolution of any construction disputes.
FINAL PAYMENT, RETENTION, AND NOTICE OF COMPLETION
Upon request for final inspection from contractor, inspection
personnel will schedule appointment with borrower for final inspection
and creation of punch list. The punch list will contain any items that
need correction prior to the issuance of the final payment. Once all
items have been properly completed to the satisfaction of the borrower
and inspector and Authorization for Payment will be submitted to
intake personnel for approval by Agency and transmittal to USE.
Inspection personnel will submit a Notice of Completion to the
borrower for signature and submit to intake personnel. The intake
personnel will cause the recordation of the Notice of Completion
through USE. Thirty five (35) days after the Notice of Completion has
been recorded, intake personnel will cause the issuance of and
Authorization of Payment to be submitted and signed by all parties for
the release of retention to the contractor.
LOAN DOCUMENT PREPARATION
INTRODUCTION
Many agencies have chosen to make direct amortized or deferred
construction loans to the citizens of their communitites. The decision
to staff lend has created the need for staff expertise commensurate
with positions such as bank loan officer and title officer. United States
Escrow (USE) personnel has been a part of many Agencies' team in
putting the loans on the books. During the applicant qualifying stage,
our staff will order outside services - credit reports, title reports - and
deliver the reports and documents to the Agency (eventually, fees for
these services will wrap into the loan and be paid from the loan
proceeds in escrow). Upon loan approval, our staff will prepare the
required documents and, upon execution with the borrower, will record
appropriate documents with your County Recorder.
This service was developed at the request of several local Agencies.
In acting as a clearinghouse for the more routine tasks facing the
sophisticated Agency staffperson, we have freed up administrative
time and dollars for more important tasks. Because we have a
standard fee for the service, our fee becomes an eligible soft cost
which can be paid from loan proceeds.
FORMS
Request for Loan Documents
This form is used by Agency staff to request that loan documents be
prepared. It asks for information needed to fill out the documents
correctly. The request may be faxed to our office to speed up the
process. We guarantee a five day turnaround on preparation of
documents. (Sample at end of this section).
CUSTOMARY LOAN DOCUMENTS
Deed of Trust
A written instrument by which a borrower (trustor) conveys title to
real property to a neutral third party (trustee) for the purpose of
securing an obligation to a lender (beneficiary). (Sample at end of
this section).
Promissory Note
A written promise to pay or repay a specified sum of money at a
stated time or on demand to a named person. In addition to the
payment of principal, a promissory note usually provides for the
payment of interest. (Sample at end of this section).
Truth in Lending Disclosure Statement
Reveals to the borrower the actual cost of repaying principal and
interest over the term of a loan. Also includes a breakdown of all
costs associated with originating the loan. (Sample at end of this
section).
Request for Notice of Default
Notice recorded by the holder of a junior lien requesting notification
if a Notice of Default is recorded under a prior Deed of Trust. (Sample
at end of this section).
Notice of Right to Cancel
Gives consumer notice of his/her legal right to cancel loan
transaction within three (3) days of executing the Promissory Note.
Must specify the maximum date and time up to which cancellation
will be accepted. (Sample at end of this section).
Control instructions
Governs the disbursement of funds held by the Fund Control Holder
between two parties to an Agreement (borrower and general
contractor). Funds are disbursed, without delay, upon receipt of an
Authorization for Payment. (Sample at end of this section).
FLOW OUTLINE
Once a loan has been approved, we will prepare the following
documents for execution:
* Deed of Trust
* Promissory Note
* Truth in Lending Disclosure Statement
* Request for Notice
* Notice of Right to Cancel
* Control Instructions
* Any other documentation required by the Agency
Once the documents are executed by the borrower, the Deed of Trust
and Request for Notice is returned to us for recordation with the
County Recorder. Following the recording of the Deed of Trust, we
will confirm that the Agency's lien position is secure by updating
title.
CONSTRUCTION FUNDS DISBURSEMENT
INTRODUCTION
Many local agencies, in keeping with national objectives, have also
developed commercial and economic development programs. Those
programs are, in many cases, dedicated to the rehabilitation of
commercial or industrial space, or to facade improvement. In
California, particularly, seismic retrofitting is of primary concern to
City governments. Disaster relief programs are necessary to provide
relief for communities that have been tragically struck by different
types of disasters.
Critical to the success of any Agency's rehabilitation efforts is the
timely turnaround of progress payments to Contractors. Many small,
women, and minority contractors cannot wait for the bureaucratic
wheels to turn out a payment.
United States Escrow (USE) built its reputation on timely progress
payments to Contractors. Construction Funds Disbursement was the
first service we developed for local government agencies. During our
twenty year history, we have assisted over one hundred agencies,
enabling them to pay their contractors in as little as 24 hours.
FORMS
Control Instructions
Control Instructions govern the payment of the borrowers' loan or
grant funds to the general contractor and other payees.
The instructions allow for immediate payout of Payment of Demands.
Payment of Demands include recording fees, credit reports, termite
reports, fund control fees, etc. No Authorization for Payment is
required to pay out demands.
The Agency may choose to have these checks mailed directly to the
payees.
The Contractor progress payments are made on an as requested basis
and upon receipt of an Authorization for Payment. (Sample at end of
this section).
Authorization for Payment
An Authorization for Payment directs the fund control holder to
make a" payment to the contractor or other payee. When work is
satisfactorily completed by the Contractor, the Agency will forward
an authorization to pay a certain amount for the completion of
specific work items.
Generally, the property owner and the Contractor, as well as an
Agency representative, sign the Authorization for Payment. (Sample
at end of this section). Checks may be two party or one party.
Checks may be mailed directly to payees or returned to the
Agency.
FLOW OUTLINE
Account Activation
To open an individual borrower account, the Agency forwards to USE
the following:
* Completed Control Instructions
* Project proceeds
The account is formally opened with the following information:
* Borrower's name and address
* Account identification
* General Contractor's name
* Initial balance
* Agency funding source
The Agency receives back a receipt for funds placed in the account.
Authorized Sienatures
If U.S.E. disburses funds, the Agency provides USE with original
signature samples of personnel authorized to request disbursement of
funds. The signatures are kept on file for verification of
disbursement requests. Individual borrower signatures are compared
with the original signature on the Control Instructions.
Funds Disbursement
The Agency authorizes a disbursement by submitting an
Authorization for Payment which shows:
* Payee(s) and amount(s) to be paid
* Original signature of borrower and authorized Agency
Representative Guidelines for disbursements are set by the
Agency. Upon receipt of the Authorization for Payment, USE
will:
* Verify receipt of proper authorization to disburse
* Verify amounts as correct and in agreement with Control
Instructions
Checks will be issued payable to contractor, borrower, and/or other
payees.
If Agency disburses funds, documentation is forwarded back to USE
for proper tracking of disbursements.
Change Orders
A Change Order is used by the Agency to make a change in the
project amount, payment schedule, contractor's payable, etc. A
Change Order may occur at any time during a project. We will revise
Control Instructions upon receipt of the Agency's written Change
Order.
Contingency
The Agency may choose to add additional funds to a project in case
there are unforeseen construction needs. We will hold contingency at
the Agency's request and will release contingency upon receipt of an
Authorization for Payment.
Retention
Generally, retention of at least ten percent is withheld from each
Contractor progress payment. The retention is then paid out a
specified number of days after project completion. We will pay out
retention upon receipt of an Authorization for Payment.
Recording the Notice of Completion
When the Agency has completed a final inspection on a project, a
Notice of Completion is executed. When forwarded to USE, we will
have it immediately recorded with the County Recorder.
Account Close Out Procedure
After payout of funds for work performed, excess funds in the account
will be disbursed at Agency's direction. When the account is zeroed
out, we will forward a closing statement to the Agency. The closing
statement is a complete record of all transactions.
REPORTS
Account Status Report
Regardless of disbursing entity, an account status report will be
issued. This report provides the Agency with a review of all activity
on all open accounts. All disbursements made to date and remaining
loan balances are shown. We also provide an alpha index. (Sample at
end of section).
Frequency: Two bound reports forwarded to the Agency monthly.
Final Closing Statement
The final statement provides the Agency with a complete record of all
transactions on a project. Signature lines allow for Agency and
borrower sign -off and acceptance of the final report. (Sample at end
of section).
Frequency: Two copies forwarded to the Agency upon close of an
individual account.
Activity Recap Report
This report is a monthly summary of escrow's opened and closed,
fundings and disbursements. Monthly figures are carried forward to
reflect a full fiscal year's activity. Data is jumped on June 30 each
year to.begin again with the Agency's new program year. (Sample at
end of section).
Frequency: One copy bound into the Account Status Report
forwarded to the Agency monthly.
LOAN PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT AND FORECLOSURE
INTRODUCTION
United States Escrow (USE) currently provides loan collection and
forbearance/foreclosure services to over '100 government agencies
throughout the United States. Our clients include the cities of
Sacramento, California; Riverside, California; Cincinnati, Ohio; City
of La Mirada, California; New Orleans, Louisiana; Glendale, Arizona;
San Jose', California; and the City of Los Angeles Community
Redevelopment Agency. The portfolio is over 16,000 loans in size
with a balance of over $260,000,000.
Our staff of customer service representatives are continually available
for both client agency and borrower inquiries. USE personnel keep
informed of all State and Federal tax and other regulatory activity
that may impact our clients. Because we maintain an in-house data
processing staff, we can easily adapt to new regulations.
We provide collection services for amortized (monthly payment)
loans and for deferred loans. Through a sophisticated tickler system,
we also provide pre -planned tickler notification to client agencies and
borrowers.
To enhance the management of loan portfolios, we offer the
impounding of taxes and insurance or the monitoring of taxes and
insurance. We also offer the monitoring of title status for the life of
the loan.
The political reality of a government agency become lender is such
that it is virtually impossible for such an entity to foreclose on
delinquent borrowers. We have developed a unique foreclosure
service where USE will buy the delinquent note for $1.00 and, under
the Agency's direction, go through the steps of foreclosure. In
conjunction with our foreclosure service, we provide a
delinquency/default follow-up and forbearance service designed to
avoid foreclosure and at the same time minimize financial loss to the
Agency.
FLOW OUTLINE
DEFERRED LOAN COLLECTIONS:
1. USE will set up each deferred collection account with
documented information from each case file including loan
terms, Borrower's name, copy of Promissory Note and Deed of
Trust, and Loan Servicing Set-up Sheet. A separate collection
file will be maintained for each case.
2. Upon assumption of servicing, we will send to each borrower
our a welcome letter and instructions should they choose to
make payments (Exhibit 3).
3. Upon Agency request, we will monitor the timely payment of
property taxes and insurance premiums. Tax service will be
ordered to monitor property tax for the life of the loan. We will
notify the insurance agent in writing that premium payments
are being monitored by USE and that we are to be made aware
of delinquencies or cancellations.
4. If the Agency chooses, USE will establish an impound account
for any borrower for payment of taxes and insurance. Many
borrowers find it easier to pay into an impound on a monthly
basis rather than making large semi-annual or annual tax and
insurance payments. If an impound account is established, we
will issue an annual coupon book, will collect the monthly
impounds from the borrower, and will make the tax and
insurance payments on the borrower's behalf.
5. At the Agency's request, we will monitor the status of title for
the life of the loan, notifying the Agency of any unreported title
transference. At the Agency's request, we will notify the
borrower that the loan is immediately due based on the
unreported transference and will take sufficient steps
necessary, up to and including foreclosure, to activate payoff.
ACCOUNT INQUIRIES
1. The Agency and borrowers will have continuous access to all
loan account information during normal work hours through
our customer service phone line. In addition, we will provide
instant hard copy account payment histories or other
information through facsimile transmission.
2. Whenever requested by a borrower, USE will provide, without
charge, a detailed statement of all transactions relating to the
borrower's payments and/or impound account.
ADDITIONAL DEFERRED LOAN PORTFOLIO
Along with its standard warehousing and monitoring services, USE
proposes to provide the following scope of services:
Income Reverification
* In keeping with the provisions of the borrower's promissory
note, USE will forward an income reverifcation packet to each
borrower. The packet will contain instructions and forms
needed to complete the reverification.
A reminder letter will be sent in two weeks if the required
information has not been received.
* Upon receipt of the completed packet, USE will perform the
following tasks:
1) verify that forms are complete and documenting proof of
income has been received;
2) calculate the borrower's debt to income ratio to determine
if borrower has present capacity to make monthly loan
repayments;
3) forward an Income Reverification Report to the Agency,
recommending: a) continued deferral or b) amortization;
and
4) if recommendation is to amortize the loan, upon Agency
approval USE will prepare necessary loan documents and
will forward the documents to the Agency for borrower
and Agency . signature. USE will record necessary
documents and will begin collecting under the new
payment schedule. **This service, if requested, will be
provided at an additional fee outside of the base rate.
Property Conditions Profile
* USE will perform a site visit to each owner's property to
determine the outer condition of the dwelling and the condition
of any detached structures and the grounds. Two photos will be
taken to document the condition of the property.
NOTE: USE will not, at any time, enter upon the owner's
private property.
* Property profiles will rate (good, fair, poor) the condition of
each of the following: roof, windows, doors, siding, foundation,
porches, garage, other detached buildings, yard, walkways,
driveway, landscaping, trees, fences, and visible refuse
containers. If the dwelling appears vacant or abandoned, the
report will so note.
* Property profiles may be ordered by the Agency with any
frequency desired, e.g., once every two years, once every three
years, etc. This service, if requested, will be provided at an
additional fee outside of base rate.
Affidavit of Owner
* USE will forward an instructional letter and Affidavit of Owner
to each borrower. The Affidavit requires the owner to swear to
continued compliance with all provisions of the promissory,
note and/or rehabilitation agreement. Such provisions may
Include, but are not limited to, the following:
1) continued residence
2) timely payment of property taxes
3) ongoing hazard and flood insurance coverage
4) timely payment of all sums due superior lienholders
5) proper maintenance of the property
6) non -subordination
If no response is received within two weeks, USE will send a
second letter again requesting owner to sign and return
affidavit.
* USE will compile responses and will forward original affidavits
to Agency.
Some of the above services related to Deferred Loan Portfolio
Management overlap. The Agency may be interested in utilizing a
variety of monitoring methods. USE will assist Agency in establishing
a Schedule of Monitoring Activities. Please note that this service can
also be provided for amortized loans.
OTHER ADDITIONAL SERVICES
1. USE will provide loan payoff quotations and will perform
reconveyances or Satisfaction of Mortgage at the borrower's
expense for any loan at the Agency's request.
2. Per IRS regulations, USE will submit each year on behalf of the
Agency, required 1098 tax information returns for any borrower
paying interest on any Agency loan. Such informational
returns will be issued on conforming magnetic tape as required
by IRS.
3. USE will supply a year end account summary statement to each
borrower if there has been interest or impound activity on their
account. The report will indicate .principal and interest paid,
the amount of payments we made on the borrower's behalf for
taxes and insurance, and any remaining impound balance.
COMPUTER LINKAGE PACKAGE
A key component to managing any large portfolio is the ease of
accessibility to loan profile and payment history information. Having
this critical loan information provided to you through computer link
provides your Agency with the most efficient method of accessing
your portfolio.
USE has developed a computer linkage package designed to make
available to your Agency, electronically, loan status information that
is normally received via hardcopy reports or phone inquiries. Your
Agency's portfolio database is made available (on a read only basis)
directly through modem communication to your system's terminal.
With our computer linkage, you and other Agency staff can avoid
phone inquiries and receive loan information instantly. Our
computer linkage package is compatible with most IBM -based
machines and features report printing capabilities on most laser or
inkjet type printers.
Some of the reports currently available for viewing and printing
include the Account Master File Information and the Account History
Ledger. This service, if requested, will be provided at an additional
fee outside of base rate.
To secure your portfolio's data base, your Agency will be issued a
unique password code to access your records. USE is currently
developing a second level of computer linkage usage that provides a
unique report generation capability. Using the complete loan
database as its information source, the report generator will allow
your Agency freedom to develop unlimited reporting information
through sorting, filtering, and formatting changes. The report
generator will allow your Agency to create virtually any report you
may need.
FORECLOSURE
If a senior lienholder forecloses on property in which the Agency is a
junior lienholder, the Agency may choose to advance funds to bring
the senior Tien current, and then foreclose on that advance. At the
Agency's request, USE will conduct foreclosure proceedings.
If an unreported transfer of title takes place on a property upon
which the Agency has a lien, the Agency may choose to foreclose if
demand for payoff is disregarded.
If a borrower has been non-responsive to USE and/or Agency
attempts to provide forbearance, or the borrower's explanation is
evaluated as non-responsive, USE will begin foreclosure proceedings.
USE may foreclose on behalf of the Agency or under its own name.
To foreclose under its own name, promissory note ownership will be
transferred from the Agency to USE for $1.00.
Reinstatement of the loan by the borrower will require all fees, plus
all foreclosure costs incurred by USE, to be reimbursed. If reinstated,
USE will sell back to the Agency the loan plus payments received.
If the loan is not reinstated or paid off, USE will continue the
foreclosure up to and including the Trustee's sale of the property.
Upon sale of the property, USE will return all proceeds of the sale to
the Agency less foreclosure fees and any other outside costs incurred.
USE will not sell any note and associated Trust Deed or Mortgage
originally owned by the Agency to any other third party.
For those loans that are reinstated by the borrower, USE will resume
normal collection services.
REPORTS
Portfolio Status Report
The report provides a complete accounting per loan of the total
portfolio. The report identifies annual payments made, remaining
balances, borrower's name and account number, original loan balance,
interest rate, and loan term. For those deferred loans accruing
interest, the report shows ongoing interest accrued and the resulting
increase in loan balance. (Sample at end of section).
Freouencv: One report forwarded monthly to Agency.
Current Month's Reconciliation Report
This report serves as a reconciliation for the loan payments remitted
by the borrowers: Many borrowers who are not required to make
regular payments choose to do so. USE collects all payments and
remits the total amount collected to the Agency. (Sample at end of
section).
Frequency: Report, along with remittance check, forwarded to the
Agency within ten working days of the close of the month.
Loan Payoff Quotation
A Payoff Quotation indicates the amount required to fully satisfy the
balance owed on the loan as of the date of the quotation. The payoff
figure is automatically calculated by adding the prorated interest,
plus borrower's demand and Reconveyance fees. An interest per diem
amount is also indicated to facilitate payoffs. (Sample at end of
section).
Frequency: Available to the Agency or payoff agent upon request.
Escrow Analysis Report
For loans requiring monthly impound payments for taxes and/or
insurance, USE has the ability to conduct an escrow analysis to
determine the proper monthly payment a given borrower needs to
make in order to cover future tax and insurance payments. This
report is especially useful when impound requirements significantly
change. Example: a marked increase in property tax due to a
reassessment or supplemental tax assessment. (Sample at end of
section).
Frequency: Available to the Agency upon request.
EXHIBIT B
HOME Activity: RENTAL REHABILITATION/RECONSTRUCTION
MILESTONES
First*
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth
Seventh Eighth
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter.
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter Quarter
Administrative
Begin RFP
Finalize
programin place
process'to
procedure
(e.g., all staff
"elect
nual
hired, staff
consultant
trained, procedures
in place, etc.)
MOU executed with
Execute
subcontractor(s)
Hoo
Project(s)
40 indivi-
40 individual
identified
dual unit:
units
Environmental
26 units
27 units
27 units
process completed
Project cost
20 units
20 units
20 units 20 units
estimates completed
Contractor selected
20 units
20 units
20 units 20 units
Project Set-up in
C/MI
26 units
27 units 27 units
Construction be ins
26 units
27 units 27 units
Project
completed/occupied
40 units 40 units
Submit completion
40 report 40 reports
report(s)
First quarter is January, February, March 1996