This image is copyrighted by Dianne Levy of Marin Family Action.

More Steps You Can Take to Stop Foreclosure

Families Fighting Foreclosure.In addition to meeting with Marin Family Action, following are steps that you can take to protect yourself.

Cautionary Notes

  1. DO NOT PAY ANYONE FOR SERVICES
    AVOID Foreclosure Prevention Companies. It is now against the law in California for anyone to charge you up front fees to help save your house. There is no guarantee that they can help you, so do not pay anyone.
  2. OPEN AND RESPOND TO ALL MAIL FROM YOUR LENDER
    Initial letters will offer information about foreclosure prevention options that may help you save your home. See us if you are confused about notices. Do not ignore notices of default or mention of foreclosure. We need to say ahead of any legal proceedings. If you lose your home to foreclosure, it is extremely difficult to get it back.
  3. KNOW YOUR MORTGAGE RIGHTS
    Find and organize your loan documents (for both 1st and 2nd loans). Read them or get help reviewing them. Look for your Promissory Note and the Deed of Trust.
  4. FORECLOSURE LAWS
    California Foreclosure Law Summary (All states are different.)
  5. FIND OUT IF YOUR HOUSE HAS BEEN SOLD
    Click here to see if your house has been sold without your knowledge. It happens. It may not be legal. Marin County Records at http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/AR/RiiMs/index.asp
  6. SHORT SALE! Be Careful If this is Suggested
    A short sale does hurt your credit -- not as much as foreclosure, but you will lose your home either way. With a short sale, you may be responsible for the difference between the sale price of your home and the mortgage balance. Some lenders will make you sign a note or letter stating that you must repay the difference between your loan and the sale amount. Seek advice before signing anything.
  7. If you have to appear in court, here are sites for California Judicial Council Forms and Information About Forms which includes how to fill them out.

Stay as Positive as Possible

Henry Ford said, "Whether you believe you can or you can't, either way you're right." Create a positive mindset and believe you can win. You need unwavering faith in your ability to succeed.