Default Claims Specialist

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of foreclosure and default-related claims, including preparation, submission, tracking, reconciliation, and resolution.
• File and monitor claims with investors, guarantors, and insurers (FHA/HUD, VA, USDA, PMI, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac).
• Audit and validate claim calculations, including principal, interest, advances, fees, and allowable costs.
• Conduct root cause analysis on denied or curtailed claims and implement corrective actions.
• Research and resolve claim exceptions, deficiencies, and appeals, including supplemental claims as needed.
• Reconcile claim proceeds and ensure accurate system and general ledger posting.

Property Preservation & REO Oversight

• Oversee property preservation and REO servicing activities to ensure compliance with investor guidelines, CFPB regulations, and state/federal laws.
• Ensure adherence to agency, investor, and regulatory requirements (FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, FHLMC, CFPB).
• Identify, document, and escalate compliance risks, servicing errors, and control gaps.
• Maintain thorough, audit-ready documentation supporting all claim and preservation activities.

Collaboration & Operational Excellence

• Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) on default claims processes and property preservation requirements.
• Gather required documentation and resolve discrepancies impacting claims or property expenses.
• Track, analyze, and report performance metrics, including recovery rates, curtailments, timelines, and vendor effectiveness.
• Identify trends and recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency, compliance, and financial outcomes.
• Assist in development and maintenance of procedures, workflows, and training materials.

Requirements

• 3–6+ years of experience in foreclosure claims and property preservation.
• Strong working knowledge of: Agency/government claims (FHA Part A/B, VA, USDA) GSE requirements (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) Property preservation and REO guidelines.
• Experience with mortgage servicing platforms (e.g., MSP/ICE).
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and data analysis.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and root cause problem-solving skills.
• Deep understanding of investor guidelines and compliance requirements.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and documentation standards.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration.
• Process improvement mindset with focus on risk mitigation and cost control.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience with GNMA (FHA, USDA, VA) Foreclosure Claims.
• Claims audit, QC, or regulatory exam support experience.
• Advanced Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data validation).