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Helping Homeowners Overcome Mortgage Challenges:
Your Path to Stability
When mortgage troubles arise, you don't have to face them alone. Whether you're struggling with payments, facing default, or exploring your options, we're here to guide you toward financial stability and peace of mind.
Facing Mortgage Struggles? You're Not Alone
Over 549,000 homeowners have received help nationwide through the Homeowner Assistance Fund since 2020. Financial hardship can happen to anyone, and recognizing the signs early gives you more power to act.
Behind on payments or worried about default
Missing one or two payments doesn't mean foreclosure is inevitable.
Struggling to keep up with current payments
Job loss, medical bills, or reduced income can make payments challenging.
Early action provides more options
The sooner you reach out, the more solutions available to save your home.

Remember: Lenders want to work with you. Foreclosure is expensive for them too, so they're often willing to negotiate payment solutions.
Navigating Mortgage Forbearance: Your Path to Relief
Mortgage forbearance allows homeowners experiencing financial hardship to temporarily pause or reduce their mortgage payments. It's a critical tool designed to prevent foreclosure, offering much-needed breathing room during difficult times.
What is Forbearance?
Forbearance is an agreement between you and your mortgage lender that allows you to temporarily suspend or reduce your monthly mortgage payments. This doesn't erase what you owe; it postpones the obligation, giving you time to recover from financial setbacks.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility for mortgage forbearance typically depends on your loan type and the nature of your financial hardship. Most lenders require you to demonstrate a legitimate financial difficulty, such as job loss, illness, or a significant reduction in income. It's always best to contact your loan servicer directly to understand their specific criteria.
Types of Forbearance Options
General Forbearance
Offered by most lenders for various financial hardships. Terms and conditions are set by the individual lender and require direct negotiation.
Government-Backed Forbearance
Historically offered for specific crises (e.g., COVID-19 under the CARES Act) for loans like FHA, VA, USDA, and Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac. May have specific, uniform rules.
Key Considerations for Homeowners
It's Not Forgiveness
Forbearance postpones payments; it doesn't eliminate them. You will still owe the missed payments, which will need to be repaid later.
Communicate with Your Lender
Proactive communication is crucial. Contact your mortgage servicer as soon as you anticipate financial difficulty to explore your options.
Understand Repayment Options
Before agreeing to forbearance, ask about the repayment plans available, such as a lump sum, repayment plan, deferral, or loan modification.
Impact on Credit
While forbearance itself may not negatively impact your credit score if properly arranged, missing payments before forbearance or failing to adhere to the agreement can.
Understand Your Options: From Loan Modifications to Selling
Loan Modification
Permanently adjust your mortgage terms to reduce monthly payments, lower interest rates, or extend the loan term to make payments more manageable.
Refinancing
Replace your current loan with a new mortgage, potentially securing better rates, terms, or switching from adjustable to fixed-rate.
Second Mortgage or Cash-Out
Access your home's equity to consolidate high-interest debt, cover major expenses, or improve your financial situation.
Selling Your Home
Whether you need quick cash or maximum value, selling can provide a fresh financial start and eliminate mortgage stress.
Fast Cash Offers vs. Selling for Maximum Value: What's Right for You?
Fast Cash Offers
  • Close in 7-14 days
  • No repairs or staging needed
  • Certainty of sale
  • Ideal for financial hardship or relocation
  • Skip showings and open houses
Best for: Quick relief from mortgage stress
Traditional Market Sale
  • Maximize your home's value
  • Professional marketing and staging
  • Multiple offers possible
  • 30-60 day typical timeline
  • Agent negotiates on your behalf
Best for: Getting every dollar possible
We connect you with trusted buyers and experienced agents who understand both approaches, ensuring a smooth process tailored to your specific timeline and financial goals.
Short Sales: A Strategic Alternative to Foreclosure
A short sale allows you to sell your home for less than the outstanding mortgage balance, with the bank's approval. It's a complex but often beneficial option for homeowners facing financial hardship who need to avoid foreclosure and mitigate damage to their credit.
What is a Short Sale?
In a short sale, your mortgage lender agrees to accept a payoff amount that is less than the total amount you owe. This typically occurs when the home's market value has fallen below the loan balance. The lender takes a loss, but it's often preferable to the greater costs associated with foreclosure.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for a short sale, you must demonstrate a significant financial hardship (e.g., job loss, divorce, medical emergency) that prevents you from making your mortgage payments. The property must also be "underwater," meaning its market value is less than the mortgage balance.
The Short Sale Process
  1. Consult with a real estate agent specializing in short sales.
  1. Gather financial documents and submit a hardship letter to your lender.
  1. List the property for sale, often at market value.
  1. Submit offers to the lender for approval.
  1. Close on the sale once approved by the lender.
Benefits & Considerations
Less Credit Damage
A short sale generally impacts your credit less severely than a foreclosure, potentially allowing you to qualify for a new mortgage sooner.
Avoid Foreclosure
It helps you avoid the public record and stigma of foreclosure, providing a more dignified exit from your property.
Potential for Debt Forgiveness
Lenders may forgive the "deficiency balance" (the difference between the sale price and what you owe), although this isn't always guaranteed and depends on state law and negotiation.
Complex and Time-Consuming
The process can be lengthy and requires significant paperwork and negotiation with the lender, often taking several months.
How the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) Can Help You
$10B
Total Allocated Nationwide
Funds specifically designated to help homeowners impacted by COVID-19 financial hardships
549K+
Homeowners Helped
Families who have received assistance since the program launched in 2020
50
States Participating
Programs available through state, tribal, and local organizations nationwide
HAF funds can cover mortgage payments (including past due amounts), property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, and certain home repairs. Assistance is distributed through your local program—check eligibility and apply today.
Take Action Now: Contact Your Lender or Loan Servicer
01
Communicate Early and Clearly
Explain your financial situation honestly. Most lenders prefer working with you rather than pursuing foreclosure.
02
Respond Promptly to Communications
Open and respond to all letters and calls from your lender to avoid accelerating foreclosure proceedings.
03
Keep Detailed Records
Document all conversations, save correspondence, and organize financial documents for easy reference.

Important: Ignoring the problem won't make it go away. Lenders are most willing to help when you contact them before missing multiple payments.
Get Expert Help: Housing Counselors and Legal Assistance
HUD-Approved Housing Counselors
Certified professionals provide free or low-cost advice and can negotiate with lenders on your behalf. They know the system and your rights.
Legal Aid Organizations
If you're facing foreclosure or need help understanding your rights, legal aid provides crucial assistance and representation.
Nonprofit Resources
Programs like HOPP, HOPE NOW Alliance, and local agencies offer comprehensive support and advocacy services.
These experts understand the complexities of mortgage relief and can guide you through paperwork, negotiations, and legal protections you might not know exist.
Beware of Scams: Protect Yourself
Never Pay Upfront Fees
Legitimate loan modification or foreclosure prevention services don't require payment before providing help. This is a major red flag.
Don't Sign Over Your Deed
Never transfer ownership or make mortgage payments to anyone other than your mortgage company without proper legal approval.
Report Suspicious Activity
Contact consumer protection agencies immediately if someone approaches you with questionable offers or high-pressure tactics.

Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Legitimate help is available through established programs and certified counselors.
Success Stories: Real Homeowners Who Found Solutions
Maria from Ohio
"I was three months behind on my mortgage after losing my job. A HUD counselor helped negotiate a loan modification that reduced my payment by $400 per month. I kept my home and my dignity."
James in Texas
"Medical bills were drowning us. We got a fair cash offer and closed in two weeks. It wasn't the highest price, but it eliminated our debt and gave us a fresh start."
The Smith Family in New York
"HAF assistance helped us catch up on six months of missed payments. The program saved our family home and we're back on track financially."
Every situation is unique, but solutions exist. These families found their path to stability, and you can too.
We Can Help
Confidential, One-on-One Consultations
Speak directly with a highly trained expert who will listen to your unique situation and offer personalized, confidential guidance.
Access to Comprehensive Resources
Our team members will help you navigate and identify the most suitable local, state, and federal homeowner assistance programs for your needs.
Personalized Action Plan
Together, we'll develop an immediate and clear plan to protect your home and secure your financial future, tailored just for you.
Your peace of mind is our priority. Connect with our compassionate and skilled team members to ensure your family's stability and future are protected.
Global Reach, Local Expertise
As the world's largest real estate franchise by agent count, Keller Williams Realty stands at the forefront of the industry, dedicated to empowering agents and serving clients with unmatched commitment.
1,300+
Market Centers
Strategically located offices across the nation and globally, offering localized support.
190,000+
Agents Ready to Help
A vast network of highly trained professionals committed to guiding your real estate journey.
Keller Williams is deeply committed to helping homeowners navigate the complexities of buying, selling, and investing in real estate. Our agents leverage cutting-edge technology and a client-first approach to ensure your success.