Alternatives to Foreclosure

The Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP)

Is HAMP still available? Read on to find out.

Principal Reduction Alternative (PRA)

The Principal Reduction Alternative (PRA) program ended on December 31, 2016. Learn what foreclosure avoidance options are still available.

Home Affordable Unemployment Program (UP)

The now-expired Home Affordable Unemployment Program (UP) reduced or suspended monthly mortgage payments for a year or longer.

If I Default Under HAMP, Can I Reapply?

The HAMP program is no longer accepting applications so if you default, you can’t reapply.

Emergency Homeowners' Loan Program (EHLP)

The now-defunct federal Emergency Homeowner's Loan Program (EHLP) provided loans to homeowners facing foreclosure. Learn what relief remains available.

Who—or What—Is Freddie Mac?

Freddie Mac is a government-sponsored enterprise that buys mortgage loans from banks and other lenders.

Who—or What—Is Fannie Mae?

Learn how Fannie Mae fits into the mortgage market in the United States.

Help for Homeowners With FHA Loans

If you have an FHA-insured loan and are struggling to make mortgage payments, HUD has programs to help you avoid foreclosure.

Get Foreclosure Relief From State Hardest Hit Fund Programs

Check out the chart below to find out if you live in a state that has an open Hardest Hit Fund program.

Help for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure After a Natural Disaster

In the wake of a natural disaster, such as Hurricane Katrina or Superstorm Sandy, there are certain foreclosure protections available for homeowners.

How to Get a Mortgage Loan Modification

If you're struggling to pay your mortgage, you might be able to get a loan modification that will lower your payments.

What's the Difference Between a Forbearance Agreement, Repayment Plan, and Loan Modification?

Forbearance agreements, repayment plans, and loan modifications are different ways that borrowers can avoid foreclosure.

What Does “Loss Mitigation” Mean?

“Loss mitigation” is what the mortgage-servicing industry calls the process where borrowers and their loan servicer work together to avoid a foreclosure.

Do’s and Don’ts for Getting a Loan Modification

Learn what to do—and what not do—in the loan modification process.

Should I Hire a Lawyer to Help With My Mortgage Modification?

Tips on when you should consider hiring an attorney to help you with a mortgage modification application.

Short Sales vs. Deeds in Lieu of Foreclosure

Both short sales and deeds in lieu can help homeowners avoid foreclosure. Learn the difference between the two options.

Short Sale Tax Implications

If you are a homeowner facing foreclosure, a short sale might sound like the perfect solution to avoid foreclosure.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure?

Question I took out a mortgage loan a couple of years ago, but got in over my head.

Short Sale of Your Home: Is It Right for You?

A short sale might—or might not—be the answer to avoid a foreclosure. Here's what you need to know about the disadvantages and risks of short sales.

Should I Hire a Lawyer to Help With My Short Sale?

If you’re a struggling homeowner facing foreclosure and thinking about selling your home in a short sale, you’ll need to decide whether you should hire an attorney or a real estate agent—or both—to help you with the process.

Save Your New York Home From Foreclosure: The Homeowner Protection Program

New York’s Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP) provides housing counseling services and other foreclosure relief to homeowners.

Pennsylvania's County Foreclosure Diversion Programs

Many counties in Pennsylvania have foreclosure diversion or conciliation programs that might help you avoid foreclosure.

Get Foreclosure Relief From State Hardest Hit Fund Programs

Check out the chart below to find out if you live in a state that has an open Hardest Hit Fund program.