For many people, getting behind on a mortgage adds a tremendous amount of stress to their lives.
At one point or another, most people enter a stage of denial. They stop answering the phones or opening the mail. The fear of losing one’s home becomes so overwhelming that the only way many homeowners can deal with it is to ignore it entirely. This is very dangerous.
As a lawyer who has represented homeowners facing foreclosure, the earlier someone meets with me – the more I can do for a person. If a person waits until they receive an ejectment notice to see me – my ability to meaningfully help the person is severely limited.
My very simple advice is to save yourself a lot of stress, spinning your wheels, and perhaps money and see a lawyer when you first fall behind on your mortgage. What do I mean by spinning one’s wheels? Unfortunately there are a lot of companies offering to help homeowners behind on their mortgages. They promise things like forensic audits. If someone is promising you something too good to be true – it probably is. These companies often ask for money up front.
A reputable lawyer should be able to advise you of your rights and options, refer you to other reputable professionals who may be able to assist you, and protect your rights in court.
You may be thinking “wow, a lawyer’s advice is to see a lawyer!” To which my response is “absolutely”.
There are options for homeowners facing foreclosure. The earlier you start addressing the problem the more options there are available to you.