As scary as it may feel to fall behind on your rent or mortgage, there are steps you can take and programs you can use to rehabilitate your loan, repair your relationship with your landlord, and keep you in your home. Foreclosure and eviction counseling is offered free to any homeowner or renter concerned about their ability to manage their monthly mortgage or rent payments and is a great first step on the road to rehabilitation.

Foreclosure and eviction counseling includes a one-on-one conversation with a trained specialist. You’ll work together, discussing the cause of your issues, reviewing your finances, and deciding on an action plan to help you meet your goals. If needed, your counselor will also help connect you with your servicer to begin the rehabilitation process.

It’s important to note, however, that the sooner you act, the more options you have. So don’t wait until you feel absolutely desperate - take action as soon as you realize you need help.

Who can benefit?

• Those worried about making next month's mortgage or rent payment
• Those who are already behind on their mortgage or rent payments
• Those worried they may lose their home

Buying a home is one of biggest financial commitments you can make. Homebuyer counseling and education can help anyone who plans on purchasing a house in the near future, but is especially helpful for consumers who:

• Are struggling to build a large enough down payment
• Worry that their credit may not be strong enough to qualify for a prime rate mortgage
• Don't understand the monthly costs associated with owning a home
• Need to complete a homebuyer counseling or education course in order to qualify for a specialized loan program

Prospective homeowners have two primary options: one-on-one homebuyer counseling and self-guided homebuyer education courses.

Homebuyer Counseling

During a one-on-one homebuyer counseling session you'll work together with a trained counselor to review your finances and formulate a plan to help you find a home you can afford. The goal is to help you understand where you stand and what steps you'll need to take in order to save an adequate down payment, qualify for an affordable mortgage, and successfully manage the month to month costs of homeownership.

If applicable, your counselor may discuss available loan programs and their requirements.

You should leave your session with a budget, a clearly defined plan of action, and a certificate of completion (if applicable).

Online Homebuyer Education Courses

In additional to live, one-on-one homebuyer counseling, MMI also offers online homebuyer education courses. These courses are self-paced, engaging, and mobile-friendly. All courses are available in both English and Spanish. Each course is designed to prepare you for every facet of the home buying process. You can sign-up and begin a course at any time.

The online course prices range from $35 to $99.