June is National Home Ownership Month, but many Americans are still struggling to make their mortgage payments. About 1 in 17 homeowners nationwide have fallen behind on their mortgage payments, putting them at a higher risk of foreclosure.
A home is where important life memories are made, where family and friends can gather, and where you can enjoy a sense of safety and comfort. Your home is something that you work hard to call your own and should never be in fear of losing due to unforeseen circumstances. But it happens. No one thinks it can happen to them, but it does happen. I am talking about foreclosure. It is a nauseating word, but it happens every single day to millions of families.
I watched two of my family members face foreclosure – it was devastating for them. Their life’s work and memories taken from them in an instant. The sad truth is – they had no idea where to turn for help. Today – help is available and it is FREE. We need people to know this help is out there. They need options, real options. I cannot even imagine this happening to my family, my kids – and not knowing who or where to go for help.
We NEED to spread the word to homeowners that real help is always free.
Making Home Affordable is a free government resource that can make paying the mortgage easier for homeowners who are struggling with their mortgage payments. With free help from HUD-approved housing experts, homeowners can avoid being scammed by those demanding payment for assistance. When it comes to upfront fees, MHA tells homeowners, “Don’t Pay, Walk Away.”
These scams could cost homeowners thousands of dollars – or even their homes. Don’t let this happen to someone you know!
Through the federal Making Home Affordable program, many homeowners have received much-needed help to reduce their monthly payments, get mortgage relief, and avoid foreclosure. Telephone scammers often request payment by wire transfer services similar to MoneyGram, or completion of paperwork containing your Social Security Number. Do not make any mortgage payments by wire transfer, or provide any personal information, in response to these calls. If you receive unsolicited calls, always check with your mortgage company using the phone number on your mortgage statement, or call 888-995-HOPE™ (4673) to check its legitimacy.
Visit MakingHomeAffordable.gov to read about available programs to help with mortgage payments. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help.