With
a job loss, divorce, illness, or death or illness of a spouse, you may have a
difficult time making your mortgage payment. But don't despair - there are steps
you can take to stay on top of your bills and avoid losing your home during this
transition period. One of the most important things
you can do is take immediate action, according to the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development. First, examine how much money is coming in and how much
you owe for your various bills. Eliminate unnecessary spending. Then,
take the following steps: Contact your lender as soon as
possible. Don't let embarrassment stop you from notifying your lender about your
financial situation. HUD says most lenders want to help borrowers keep their homes.
Foreclosure is expensive for all parties involved. Lenders have workout options
to help you keep your home. But lenders are most accommodating when you are just
one or two payments behind. The farther behind you get, the fewer options exist.
Most lenders will help you explore your options. Don't ignore
mail from your lender. If you haven't contacted your lender and you start receiving
letters when you're behind in making your payments, you need to respond when they
contact you. If they don't hear from you, they will take legal action. Talk
to a housing counselor. If you don't want to contact your lender right away, call
a HUD-approved housing counselor. He or she will help you assess your financial
situation, review your options, and - most importantly - help you negotiate with
your lender. Counselors are familiar with the work-out arrangements for various
lenders. Prioritize your debts. Under new budget constraints,
you'll need to focus on food, utilities, and shelter. If you don't pay your debts,
chances are your credit will be negatively impacted. Any money you have after
paying for food and utilities should go toward your mortgage payment. In addition
to contacting a housing counselor, you may want to contact a non-profit consumer
credit counseling agency. A credit counselor can often reduce your monthly bills
by negotiating lowered payments or long-term payment plans with your creditors.
Most of these agencies provide their services free of charge. Be leery of an agency
that requires a large fee or donation. Keep your credit as
clean as possible. Resist the urge to pay with plastic - you don't want to fall
behind on additional debts and ultimately mar your credit report. This is especially
important if you're trying to find a new job. Many employers check candidates'
credit reports. It will also affect you if and when you buy or rent again. Explore
loan workout solutions. If at all possible, stay on top of your mortgage payments.
If you are unable to do so, contact your lender to help you find a program. Article
continued at http://realtytimes.com/rtcpages/20020423_mtgpayments.htm Home
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