1. Reach Out to a Housing Counselor

• HUD-approved housing counselors are available to provide free, compassionate guidance. They can explain your options, help you navigate conversations with your lender, and support you in finding a solution that fits your needs. You can easily connect with a local counselor by visiting the HUD Housing Counselors page or calling 1-800-569-4287.

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2. Explore Mortgage Assistance Programs

• If you're struggling to make payments due to financial hardship, the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) may offer relief. This program provides financial assistance to help you catch up on missed mortgage payments. To find out if you qualify and apply, visit your state's program through the Homeowner Assistance Fund.​​

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• Fannie Mae’s Help for Homeowners: If your mortgage is backed by Fannie Mae, they offer resources to help avoid foreclosure, including loan modification options and repayment plans.​

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3. Talk to Your Lender About Loan Modification or Repayment Plans

• Many lenders are willing to work with you if you're behind on payments. Options like loan modifications or repayment plans may reduce your monthly payment or allow you to catch up on missed payments. Contact your lender directly, or ask your housing counselor to help initiate this conversation.

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4. Seek Legal Assistance

• If you're unsure of your rights or need help navigating foreclosure proceedings, legal aid organizations can offer free or low-cost help. They can guide you through the legal process, explain your options, and defend your interests. 

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5. Consider Foreclosure Mediation

• Some states offer mediation programs that bring homeowners and lenders together to explore alternatives to foreclosure, such as a loan modification. This can be an opportunity to work out a solution in a supportive environment.

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6. Government Programs

• Making Home Affordable Program (MHA): Although MHA has ended, other programs inspired by it are still available to help with loan modifications, refinancing, and more.

• VA Loan Assistance: If you’re a veteran, the VA Loan Guaranty can assist with avoiding foreclosure through financial counseling and other programs.

  • Visit: VA Home Loan Resources

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7. Short Sale and Deed-in-Lieu

• Short Sale: If you owe more on your home than its current value, a short sale might allow you to sell the property for less than the mortgage balance with the lender’s approval.

• Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure: In some cases, you may be able to transfer ownership of the home back to the lender in exchange for avoiding foreclosure.

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8. Call Foreclosure Helplines

• National Foreclosure Hotline: Call 1-888-995-HOPE for free assistance from housing counselors.

• State-Specific Hotlines: Many states offer their own foreclosure prevention hotlines, providing resources and guidance on avoiding foreclosure.

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9. Nonprofit Resources

• Organizations like NeighborWorks America and The Homeownership Preservation Foundation offer foreclosure prevention programs and advice to help struggling homeowners.

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10. Online Resources

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): Offers comprehensive information on avoiding foreclosure and working with lenders.​

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11. Sale of Your Home

• While we know selling might feel like a difficult decision, it can also be a way to get out from under this burden and find some peace of mind. Our goal is to help you navigate this in the most respectful and supportive way possible. We handle the paperwork, and you don’t need to worry about repairs or fees. We can close on a timeline that works for you. We're not here to pressure you into anything. We try to offer solutions that can relieve some of the financial pressures you’re feeling. If selling feels like the right step for you, then we're here to make it as easy and comfortable as possible.