What should I do if I’m having trouble making my mortgage payment?
Homeowners are generally encouraged to contact their mortgage servicer directly as soon as possible. Servicers can explain what options may be available based on the loan type, status, and applicable guidelines. If you are facing foreclosure and not getting help from your mortgage servicer we will try and find options available based on your situation.
What is foreclosure?
Foreclosure is the legal process a lender may use when mortgage payments are not made. The steps and timelines vary by state. Homeowners should review state-specific rules or consult their servicer or a licensed attorney.
How long does the foreclosure process take?
Timelines differ based on state laws, loan type, and circumstances. Some states require judicial foreclosure; others do not. Only official state resources or licensed attorneys can explain the timeline for a specific situation.
Can foreclosure be stopped once it begins?
Some homeowners may have options through their mortgage servicer, such as reinstatement or other loss-mitigation reviews. These options depend on the specifics of the loan and applicable regulations. Only the servicer can confirm what is available.
What is a mortgage servicer?
A mortgage servicer is the company responsible for managing your mortgage, collecting payments, and reviewing hardship requests. They are the only entity that can review or approve loss-mitigation options.
What is a loss-mitigation or loan-modification review?
A loss-mitigation review evaluates whether the homeowner qualifies for options such as repayment plans, reinstatement, or a potential modification. Requirements and outcomes vary. Homeowners must contact their servicer for accurate information.
Will applying for assistance pause the foreclosure process?
Under federal mortgage-servicing rules, submitting a complete application may pause certain foreclosure steps while the servicer reviews it. This depends on timing, status, and regulations. Only your servicer can confirm what applies.
What documents are typically required for hardship review?
Common requests include proof of income, bank statements, tax returns, and a hardship explanation. Servicers may require additional information depending on the loan type and guidelines.
Should I respond to letters or notices from my lender?
Yes. Servicers send important information regarding delinquency and available options. Homeowners should review notices carefully and contact their servicer with any questions.
What is a Notice of Default or Notice of Sale?
These are legal notices used in some states during the foreclosure process. They contain important deadlines that homeowners should not ignore. Contacting the servicer promptly is recommended, and homeowners may also consider speaking with an attorney.
Are there government-approved resources for homeowners?
Yes. HUD-approved housing counselors offer free, government-authorized guidance about foreclosure-related topics. While they cannot guarantee outcomes, they may help homeowners understand available options.
What is forbearance, and how does it differ from a loan modification?
Forbearance temporarily pauses or reduces payments, while a loan modification permanently adjusts loan terms (if approved). Servicers determine eligibility and explain options based on the specific loan.
Are there state or federal programs that may help?
Some states operate housing assistance programs, and federal rules require servicers to evaluate certain options based on borrower hardship. Homeowners should consult their servicer or official state resources for details.
Will exploring foreclosure-prevention options affect my credit?
Late or missed payments may impact credit. Servicers can explain how different options may be reported to credit bureaus. HomeReliefProgram.com does not provide credit advice.
Can selling my home help me avoid foreclosure?
Some homeowners explore selling their home to address delinquency or preserve equity. Servicers may also discuss short-sale or deed-in-lieu options. Homeowners should review these with their servicer or a licensed real estate professional.
Should I talk to an attorney?
Because foreclosure involves legal rights and deadlines, many homeowners choose to consult a licensed attorney familiar with state-specific requirements. HomeReliefProgram.com does not provide legal advice.
What if I was previously denied for assistance?
A prior denial does not necessarily mean options are unavailable now. Program guidelines and financial circumstances may change. Homeowners should ask their servicer about updated review options.
Can my servicer foreclose while I’m in a forbearance plan?
During an approved and active forbearance, foreclosure activity is generally paused, but specifics depend on loan type, documentation, and regulations. Homeowners should confirm details with their servicer.
What happens after a forbearance ends?
Missed payments typically must be addressed through options offered by the servicer, such as repayment plans, reinstatement, or other loss-mitigation reviews. Only the servicer can explain which options may apply.
What is a HUD-approved housing counselor, and should I contact one?
HUD-approved counselors provide free, government-authorized assistance to help homeowners understand available options. They do not guarantee any outcome but can be a helpful resource.
How does HomeReliefProgram.com work?
HomeReliefProgram.com provides general educational information and may connect homeowners with third-party resources, which may be able to help with foreclosure, loan modification or other mortgage related services. We do not negotiate with lenders or provide legal, credit, or financial advice.
Is HomeReliefProgram.com affiliated with my lender, servicer, or the government?
No. HomeReliefProgram.com is not affiliated with any mortgage lender, servicer, government program, or housing authority.