How to Avoid Foreclosure: Steps You Can Take Right Now

Tips to avoid foreclosure

When you’re facing financial stress, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start. If you’re struggling to keep up with your mortgage payments, know this: you have options, and taking action early can make a meaningful difference.

Foreclosure is not inevitable. Many homeowners who reach out early are able to explore solutions that help them stay in their homes or transition more smoothly during a temporary hardship. Here are steps you can take right now.

1. Don’t wait—start the conversation early

One of the most important steps you can take is also the simplest: reach out to your loan servicer as soon as you’re concerned about making a payment.

At HomeLoanServ, our job is to help you understand your loan and connect you with available options. The earlier we hear from you, the more possibilities may be available. Even if you’re not behind yet, letting us know about a potential hardship allows us to guide you proactively.

Early communication can help you:

  • Understand your current loan status
  • Learn about short-term or temporary assistance options
  • Avoid surprises and unnecessary stress

2. Understand that help looks different for everyone

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to financial hardship. Assistance options depend on factors like your loan type, payment history, and the nature of your hardship.

By contacting HomeLoanServ, you can:

  • Ask questions about your account
  • Learn what options may apply to your situation
  • Get clarity on next steps, timelines, and documentation

Even if you’re unsure what you need, starting the conversation helps put a plan in motion.

3. Work with a HUD-approved housing counselor

In addition to working directly with your loan servicer, HUD-approved housing counselors are a valuable, no-cost resource for homeowners.

These certified counselors can:

  • Help you review your finances and household budget
  • Explain foreclosure prevention options in plain language
  • Assist you in communicating with your loan servicer
  • Help you create a realistic action plan

HUD-approved counselors are trained professionals whose goal is to help you understand your choices and advocate for yourself. There is no fee for their services.

4. Avoid foreclosure scams

Unfortunately, homeowners facing hardship are often targeted by scams that promise quick fixes or guaranteed results for a fee.

Be cautious of anyone who:

  • Asks for upfront payment to “save” your home
  • Tells you to stop communicating with your loan servicer
  • Promises guaranteed loan modifications

Your safest first steps are always to contact HomeLoanServ directly and work with HUD-approved housing counselors.

5. Remember: asking for help is a smart step

Financial challenges can happen for many reasons—job changes, medical expenses, rising costs, or unexpected life events. Reaching out for support isn’t a failure; it’s a proactive step toward stability.

If you’re worried about your mortgage, don’t wait until things feel unmanageable. A fresh start often begins with a simple conversation.