If Reit's can do it, why can't the homeowner?

In the May 6th Wall Street Journal, a headline reads, "REIT's seize a chance to deleverage. at discounted prices." "Diversified Realty Corporation ... repurchased several of its bonds at 49% discount." The resulting profit impact can be spread over 5 years under the new stimulus legislation.

If a REIT can pay off its loan at 49% of its face value, shouldn't a homeowner be able to do this?

Wouldn't it be wisdom for a bank to merely drop the interest rates on all its mortgages to the current rate? Then the bank is more likely to get back 100% of its principle--not 49%.