Foreclosure Help in Montana
Foreclosure on your home is probably one of the most stressful situations anyone can face. The truth is that no matter how well you plan and prepare for the unforeseen, life can still throw you a curveball. Whether you have lost your income or suffered an unexpected medical emergency that renders you unable to pay your mortgage, please know that there is help available for you. There are both state and federal agencies that can help you prevent and cope with foreclosure. Below is a brief overview of programs that can assist you in this difficult time.
Preventing foreclosure
- Speak to your lender. Your first step in preventing foreclosure is to promptly communicate with your lender if you are behind on your mortgage or find yourself unable to make a payment. These discussions can facilitate the restructuring of your payment plan to reduce your interest rate and lower your monthly payments. If necessary, the postponement of regular payments can also be considered to help you get through a difficult time. Be forthcoming and honest with your lender and make sure to answer calls and emails to help with this process. If they are unable to reach you, they may opt to proceed with foreclosure.
- Call the Homeowner’s Hope Hotline. Homeowners facing potential foreclosure can also call the HOPE NOW toll-free at hotline at 1-888-995-HOPE (1-888-995-4673) or visit their website at 995hope.org. This hotline forms part of the HUD approved counselors, investors and mortgage lenders that can provide valuable information and resources to help prevent foreclosure.
- Contact a certified counselor. The Montana Department of Commerce Housing Division that includes the Montana Board of Housing (MBOH) provides face-to-face counseling for struggling homeowners through theNeighborWorks Montana network. This service is also free of charge. You can find out more by visiting housing.mt.gov or http://keepmymontanahome.com or calling them on 1-866-587-2244.
Have a specific question about Avoiding Foreclosure in Montana? Check out our Foreclosure FAQ’s section.
Dealing with foreclosure
If you are already facing foreclosure or your loan provider has taken legal action, you can use the list below to get the help you need. These services work in addition to the list above, so we would advise you to seek counseling even though you are facing foreclosure.
- Seek legal assistance. You will need competent legal assistance to help you through the foreclosure process. The State Bar of Montana provides a free Lawyer Referral Service that you can contact on (406) 449-6577. If you need access to reduced legal fees, the Montana Legal Serviceshelp line can be contacted at (800) 666-6899 for assistance. For more information on legal services provide by the state of Montana, you can visit the State Bar of Montana.
- Watch out for foreclosure frauds. Homeowners in default or facing foreclosure can become victims to home equity theft, where fraudulent organizations offer to prevent foreclosure or assist you with retaining your home. They then use manipulative and fraudulent methods to obtain ownership of you home while leaving you homeless, but still with a mortgage to pay. Make sure that you only accept aid from federal or state registered organizations. If you are unsure, contact one of the call centers listed above to make sure.
Remember that you are not alone through this difficult time. Please reach out to the organizations above to help you find the best possible solution for your problem.