A smile and a strategy may help get that loan modification

Come this June, as WalletPop has reported, new government rules take effect that are designed to make it easier for distressed homeowners to get not only that often-elusive, three-month trial mortgage loan modification, but also the much more sought after (and relatively seldom gotten) permanent mortgage modification.

But new rules and regulations, while helpful, are only part of the picture. As with many other things in life, having the right attitude and a firm plan in place before paying a visit to your questionably friendly neighborhood loan officer may greatly enhance your chances of getting that loan modification.