Facing Foreclosure?

As many know and have heard on the news, foreclosure is a growing problem in Wisconsin. If you or someone you know is facing foreclosure, please take note of the following information...

• There may be programs available to you to help your situation. Check with your lender to see if you might me able to get a reduced payment through a mortgage modification or obtain a forebearance (payment plan to catch you up).
• FREE counseling is available! Contact your local CCCS agency for housing counseling. YOU SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY A DIME FOR FORECLOSURE ASISTANCE/HOUSING COUNSELING. STAY AWAY FROM ANY COMPANY THAT CHARGES AN UP FRONT FEE TO HELP "GET YOUR HOME OUT OF FORECLOSURE." THEY ARE SCAMMERS!!!!
• Beware of counseling agencies that also offer property flipping (in other words, if they can't help you with your mortgage they "conveniently" list and sell your property at a profit).
• Some counties offer a mediation program where you can request mediation to help resolve your mortgage problems during a scheduled mediation session. The cost is $100 and free housing counseling is a part of the process.
• If you are contacting your lender on your own to work out a modification or agreement: document all conversations, keep track of names and extension numbers and fight the good fight! It can be very frustrating calling a mortgage company and getting transferred, disconnected and given inconsistent information. Contact your lender at least weekly for status updates.
• Do not hesitate to get help when needed. the worst thing you can do is nothing at all. Ignoring your mortgage company will not "make it go away." Call FISC for help.