Rule 17 Settlement/Resolution Before Mediation

If the homeowner and lender work out their differences before the mediation date, they still have to tell the mediator about it. This needs to happen at least 2 business days before the mediation was scheduled to take place. The parties also need to send the mediator a written copy of their settlement agreement so it can be attached to the official paperwork.

If the settlement hasn't been put in writing and signed by both sides yet, both parties still have to show up to the mediation. This lets everything get properly documented on the record, even though the issues are already resolved. Simply reaching a verbal agreement isn't enough to skip this step.

One more thing to know: settling the case early doesn't mean anyone gets their mediation fees back. Even if you resolve everything before the scheduled date, the fees you already paid stay paid.