There's Help For House Payments

In Minnesota, the foreclosure process can begin as early as 30 days after a borrower initially misses a mortgage payment and can take months to play out. Homeowners can stop the proceedings at any time if they can catch up on back payments and fees with the bank. That's true even if your house has been sold at auction, where you have up to six months to buy it back.

A statewide network of nonprofit and government organizations exists to help homeowners in trouble. Counselors review your entire financial picture, not just your housing situation, and help you work with your lenders and mortgage company. They also can help you prioritized your bills and spending habits, refer you to other sources for support and help you wade through complicated paperwork to get the support you need, including child care, unemployment or legal assistance.

Avoiding Foreclosure: Here's a sampling of free services:

• Statewide, call the Minnesota Home Ownership Center at 651.659.9336 or toll free at 866.462.6466.
  Or visit www.hocmn.org.

• The Homeownership Preservation Foundation is at 1.888.995.HOPE.

• Freddie Mac's Don't Borrow Trouble Minnesota, 612.312.2020 or www.dontborrowtroublemn.org.

• Dakota County Community Development Agency at 651.675.4471.

• Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity at 612.331.4090, ext 3.

• Minneapolis residents can dial 311; St. Paul residents, 651.266.6626.