I've fallen on bad times and am having trouble paying my mortgage. What should I do?
Homeowners facing financial difficulties and unable to make their mortgage payments are strongly encouraged to contact their lender. Many lenders offer assistance to their borrowers to help them bring their mortgage current. Homeowners may also want to contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency to find out about programs that may be able to assist them, especially if communication with the lender has broken down. To find a HUD-approved housing counseling agency, please call 1-800-569-4287 or search online.
Other Consumer Finance and Foreclosure FAQs
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Q:
When and why does foreclosure begin?
A: Lenders will initiate foreclosure proceedings when homeowners become delinquent in their mortgage obligations, usually after three payments are missed. The lender … More -
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Are you at risk of foreclosure?
A: If your financial situation has changed for the worse, you may be worried that you might be at risk of foreclosure. Have your finances changed due to a mortgage … More -
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What is acceleration?
A: Many contracts for debts contain "acceleration" clauses. This clause gives a creditor the right to "accelerate" the repayment when a payment … More -
Q:
What is deed-in-lieu of foreclosure?
A: A Deed in Lieu of foreclosure (DIL) is a disposition option in which a mortgagor voluntarily deeds collateral property in exchange for a release from all obligations … More -
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What happens when you miss your first mortgage payment?
A: Foreclosure processes vary by state. However, typically, after you miss your first month missed payment, your lender will contact you by letter or phone. A … More -
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What is a loan modification, and how will it help me with my mortgage?
A: A loan modification occurs when a homeowner enters into an agreement with his or her mortgage loan servicer to change the terms of the mortgage. The goal … More -
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What happens after you miss a second mortgage payment?
A: After missing your second month of mortgage payments, if you haven't already been contacted by your lender, your lender will likely begin calling you to discuss … More -
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Will I be eligible for a loan modification under the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan if I am behind in my mortgage payments, but my house is not yet in foreclosure?
A: As long as you are otherwise eligible under the basic requirements discussed above, you have missed two or more mortgage payments, and your loan servicer is … More -
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What happens after a third month of missed mortgage payments?
A: If you've missed three months of mortgage payments, you will likely receive a letter from you lender stating the amount you are delinquent, and that you have 30 days … More -
Q:
If I'm current on my mortgage will the Home Affordable Refinance Program help me?
A: If you are current on your mortgage, you may be able to refinance your loan under the Home Affordable Refinance Program. Many homeowners who … More
