Seek Advice
There are many people and agencies out there that specialize in helping people in financial distress. Aside from attorneys, there are non-profit, private, and government funded credit counseling agencies that can offer you advice at any point in the foreclosure process. Just make sure that the agency or person you consult is legitimate. Counselors associated with the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA) can usually be considered safe. You can also find a housing counseling agency approved by the Housing and Urban Development Department (HUD) by calling (800) 569-4287. If you have a Veterans Administration (VA) loan, you can call (800) 827-1000 to get a referral to a financial counselor.
Be Cautious
Regardless of whom they are affiliated with, some credit counselors and lenders are untrustworthy. They may try to offer you bogus information or refer you to an investor or con artist that preys on financially distressed consumers. If you are skeptical of the advice or services you receive, it might be a good idea to consult an attorney. Never let ignorance bring you down. Research your rights and never let anyone force you into agreeing to anything. The following site offers a list of resources to report mortgage fraud, foreclosure scams, and predatory lending:
Move Quickly and Efficiently
Foreclosures move quickly. Although some move faster than others, none allow much room for procrastination. Although they are stressful, you cannot let your guard down. Once a foreclosure sale takes place, your rights as a property owner no longer exist. Act quickly and assertively. Seek help. Research everything you do before doing it. Keep records of everything (including phone calls and conversations). Foreclosure doesn't have to be the end of the world for you. Education and information are your best friends. The following site provides rough estimates of how long foreclosure proceedings might take to be completed in your state:
Foreclosures Are Public
Foreclosure notices appear in newspapers and court records. Both are available to the public. First and foremost, don't let embarrassment break you down. Hiding from your problem will surely result in foreclosure. Accept your situation and be proactive. Perhaps more importantly, don't let people trying to prey on distressed consumers make you their next victim. Make yourself aware of common mortgage and foreclosure scams and don't hesitate to seek legal help if you think you someone is trying to take advantage of you. | 
