Getting Help With Foreclosure
If you are facing foreclosure or are worried, you might lose your home, and you will need professional, reliable help. You will need advice and information about your options, and you may need to find buyers or negotiators to talk to your lender. The more help you have as you try to prevent foreclosure, the more likely you are to make the right decisions. Foreclosure is a challenging time for most homeowners, and knowledgeable assistance can be a great help. Luckily, many resources can help you find the information and help you need:
Private Groups:
1) Your lender. Called your "mortgage servicer" or lender, this professional or organization should be your first point of contact. As soon as you realize you may have trouble making a mortgage payment, you should contact your lender. Your lender will likely have solutions and options to help you avoid foreclosure.
2) StopForeclosuresHelp.com. This online resource is available 24/7 and is compiled by real estate professionals. From information about standard foreclosure terms to details about foreclosure solutions, StopForeclosuresHelp.com can help you understand more about the foreclosure process and solutions that might make sense for you.
3) Counselors and counseling services. Your best option is to find HUD-approved housing counselors who have been carefully pre-screened by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Homeownership Preservation Foundation also offers some counseling services, and some lenders have counseling services or workshops as well. Always make sure that the counseling service you are using is legitimate.
Government Assistance:
4) Freddie Mac. Freddie Mac is an organization that buys mortgages. If your home loan is owned by Freddie Mac, the group may be able to offer some assistance. Your lender will be able to tell you whether your home loan is owned by Freddie Mac.
5) HUD. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers many services for people who are looking for affordable housing. The company can help you find resources in your area.