If you've had problems paying your mortgage, foreclosure can happen. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent it from reaching the final stage or at least help you through the process as smoothly as possible. From contacting foreclosure lawyers to seeking government programs, here are things to do during a foreclosure.

Contact a Real Estate Agent

A whopping 78% of recent homebuyers got useful information from their real estate agent, according to the National Association of Realtors. You may need to prepare for a short sale and sell the home for less than what it's worth if your bank allows it. A real estate agent may be able to lay the groundwork for this short sale.

Get Legal Help

Foreclosure lawyers are available to help you through the steps of the process. Your attorney understands all aspects of the foreclosure process. They can help you understand your rights and give you honest advice about the best approach. A lawyer can help you initiate a deed in lieu of foreclosure. This process allows you to legally transfer home ownership to your lender, so you don't have a foreclosure on your record.

Check Government Programs

Some government programs may be able to help you. Check into the Homeowner Assistance Fund created after the COVID-19 pandemic to assist families. If you're facing unemployment or other financial hardship, contact the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as they also have programs to help. For more information about loan modifications, refinancing, and unemployment help, you should also look into the Making Home Affordable (MHA) program.

Contact Your Lender

It can't hurt to contact your lender. You may be able to refinance or get an extension. Thanks to regulations at the state and federal levels, a loan modification review is within your rights. It means your existing home loan can be adjusted so payments can become more affordable before a lender decides to start foreclosure.

Going through a foreclosure can be scary for any homeowner. Luckily, by taking the right steps, you may avoid the process entirely or at least have a smooth transition before you move on. That's why you should contact a legal professional who has handled these types of cases before. We're your local foreclosure lawyers who also offer criminal law, traffic law, real estate law, landlord-tenant law, power of attorney, and more legal services. Contact the Law Offices of Edward P. Vidal today for a consultation.