How To Get Help With Foreclosure And Avoid Being Scammed

Getting help with foreclosure is a whole lot easier than you probably think it is. With the explosion of foreclosures over the past few years, there are many state and government programs that have sprung up to help homeowners. That being said, there are also many scams that have sprung up to try to take advantage of homeowners whose homes are in danger of foreclosure. So how do you tell the difference between those agencies that want to help you and those that simply want to take advantage of you?

1. If it feels like a sales pitch, it probably is. If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, chances are it is a duck. If you are being told to bring your checkbook with you or that you must “act now” or lose out, run in the opposite direction. These are not people that want to help with foreclosure, these are people that want to take advantage of your situation. If you feel pressured to make a decision, chances are that it is a scam.

2. If it is someone who has called you or sent you letters in the mail, chances are good that it is a scam. Sorry but legitimate help does not often simply show up at your door. You have to go seek it out. Some of these people will seem very sincere in their desire to help with foreclosure but if they are getting paid any kind of commission for “helping” you, they are not really there to help.

3. If you found their information on a government website and they offer free help, then you have probably found someone who legitimately wants to help you. There are many state, local and national resources that offer a free phone or in person consultation with a housing professional that can help with foreclosure. Just talking through your financial situation with one of these professionals can help you figure out where you stand and what your options are.

Something that you should know is that as soon as your foreclosure becomes a matter of public record, chances are that you will get descended upon by lots of people wanting to “help.” Be wary of any help that requires an upfront fee, requires you to sign over the deed to your property or tells you that you only have a very limited time to decide. If it feels like high-pressure sales tactics, chances are very good that it is a scam. Most of these agencies do not have your best interests at heart and do not genuinely want to help with foreclosure. Many are just out to make a quick profit at your expense.