Foreclosure Prevention

Often, through no fault of your own, homeowners can fall behind on mortgage payments. Sudden changes, such as loss of a job, illness, accidents, divorce or the death of a family member can create financial problems that lead to difficulty making timely mortgage payments. We are here to help you protect your home and family asset.

We are a HUD-approved housing counseling agency and we provide free counseling to homeowners like you who may be facing the threat of foreclosure. We also make connections to our staff attorneys to ensure that all potential issues preventing sustainable homeownership are addressed.

If your mortgage payments are behind or you think you may fall behind soon, our staff can help you make a plan and connect with resources.

How do I get started?

Fill out the intake form today for free HUD-certified housing counseling and legal services. Research shows that homeowners who gain professional help are able to obtain more sustainable solutions than those that do not

Your plan may include:

  • Foreclosure prevention

  • Free legal representation

  • Homeowner education and financial coaching

  • Affordable home sales

  • Renovation of foreclosed and vacant properties

  • Affordable rental opportunities

Do I need a lawyer?

Whether you need a lawyer rather than a housing counselor depends on your individual circumstances. Upon reviewing your matter, we will determine which of our departments may be better able to assist you. If you have an active court proceeding, or if there are unusual circumstances that may give rise to a defense, an attorney may be better suited than a housing counselor to advise about your rights and options or to provide direct assistance. Please keep in mind that simply contacting us does not guarantee provision of any service.

Where do counseling advice and workshops take place?

Client counseling and legal advice take place on the phone, in person at our office, located at 321 E. 25th Street Baltimore, MD 21218, and virtually via Zoom.

Workshops take place at our office and virtually on Zoom. If you do not live in the Baltimore area, have mobility issues, or if attending the workshop would present a hardship, please call our office to let us know.

What to expect when I speak with a counselor:

  • You will speak to our intake coordinator who will assist you with preparing for an appointment with a foreclosure prevention counselor. If you have already received a notice, please let the intake coordinator know at this time. We encourage all new clients to attend a Financial Capability workshop offered twice each month. During the workshop we will discuss financial goals, the impact of late payment on your credit, and what to expect during the housing counseling process, as well as the foreclosure timeline in Maryland.
  • Once you complete the package and return it to our office, our intake coordinator will review some information with you and a counselor will call you within 48 hours to schedule an appointment either in-person or on the phone.
  • During your appointment we will discuss your situation, review your budget, and based on your situation we will develop an action plan with tasks for both you and your counselor.

SCAM ALERT

Maryland law is designed to protect homeowners from unscrupulous individuals wishing to take advantage of those in danger of losing their homes.

  • Beware of any person or organization asking you to pay up-front fees in exchange for providing mortgage counseling services or modification of a delinquent loan. Do not pay—walk away.
  • Do not believe guarantees. A reputable counselor will not guarantee that they can stop the foreclosure process, regardless of your circumstances. Working with a legitimate counselor can certainly increase your chances of keeping your home—but be wary of people who promise a sure thing. Again, first get the details of your transaction and any related promises in writing before you enter into an agreement.
  • Beware of anyone who says they can “save” your home if you sign or transfer over the deed to your house. Do not sign over the deed to your property to any organization or individual unless you are working directly with your mortgage lender, or with your attorney.

For more information visit Loan Modification Scam Alert.

Resources

Foreclosure Resources

Tax Help

Mortgage complaints and scams

Home Rehab