If you're behind on mortgage payments in Florida, the most important step is to contact your loan servicer and a HUD-approved housing counselor as early as you can, because more options are usually available before a foreclosure case moves forward. Options may include a repayment plan, forbearance, a loan modification, or selling. I'm Krystal, and I can't promise any outcome, but I can help you understand the landscape.
Who should I call first?
Two calls, as soon as possible:
- Your loan servicer. That's the company you send payments to. Ask for the loss mitigation or mortgage assistance department, and ask what options they offer for your loan type. Take notes on every call: date, name and what was said.
- A HUD-approved housing counselor. These counselors are typically free or low-cost and can help you understand your options and prepare paperwork. Find one through the CFPB housing counselor search or HUD's housing counseling line at 800-569-4287.
Open every letter from your servicer and the court. Deadlines matter.
What options might my servicer offer?
Every loan and servicer is different, and approval is never certain. Common options to ask about include:
- Repayment plan: catching up on missed amounts over time.
- Forbearance: a temporary pause or reduction, which still has to be addressed later.
- Loan modification: a permanent change to the loan's terms.
- Partial claim or deferral: on some loan types, missed amounts may be moved to a separate balance due later.
- Short sale: selling for less than you owe, with the lender's approval.
- Deed in lieu: giving the home back to the lender, with the lender's approval.
If you have a VA, FHA or USDA loan, ask your servicer and counselor about options specific to that loan type. Veterans with VA-backed loans can also contact VA's loan technicians through VA.gov.
How does foreclosure work in Florida?
Florida uses a judicial foreclosure process, meaning the lender generally files a case in court. If you receive court papers, don't ignore them. There are response deadlines. This is a good time to talk with a Florida attorney; you may also find legal aid organizations in your county. I'm not an attorney and can't give legal advice.
Can selling be an option?
For some homeowners, selling is the option that best protects their equity and credit, especially if the home has gained value. Others may be underwater and look at a short sale. Selling isn't right for everyone, and I'll never pressure you. If it's on the table, I can:
- Give you an honest estimate of what the home may sell for
- Show you a seller net sheet so you can see what may be left after the loan and costs (see my guide to selling costs in Florida)
- Coordinate with your servicer if a short sale is needed
Some owners also consider renting the home. My guide to renting out your Florida home covers the basics.
How do I avoid foreclosure rescue scams?
People in a hard spot get targeted. Be careful if anyone:
- Asks for upfront fees to "fix" your loan
- Tells you to stop talking to your servicer or stop making payments
- Asks you to sign over your deed or sign papers you don't understand
- Promises a specific result
A HUD-approved housing counselor is a good, free place to check anything that feels off.
What should I gather before I call?
Servicers and counselors usually ask for the same documents. Having them ready can save time and help you avoid delays:
- Your most recent mortgage statement and loan number
- Recent pay stubs, benefit letters or other proof of income
- Two or three months of bank statements
- Recent tax returns
- A short hardship letter explaining what happened and what's changed
- A simple monthly budget showing income and expenses
Send copies, keep the originals, and write down when and how you sent everything. If a servicer says something is missing, ask exactly what and by when.
How can I take care of myself during this?
Money stress is heavy. It's okay to ask for help, and it's okay to take things one step at a time. Focus on the next call, the next document and the next deadline. You don't have to have every answer today.
Quick checklist
- Open every letter from your servicer and the court
- Call your servicer's mortgage assistance department
- Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor
- Gather pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns and a hardship letter
- Keep a call log with dates and names
- Talk to a Florida attorney if you receive court papers
- Get an honest home value if selling might be an option
- Never pay upfront fees for foreclosure help
FAQ
Is it too late if I've already missed several payments?
Not necessarily. Options vary by loan and stage, so contact your servicer and a HUD-approved housing counselor right away.
Do housing counselors charge?
HUD-approved counselors typically offer foreclosure counseling for free or at low cost. Ask about any fees up front.
Will a loan modification be approved?
No one can promise approval. Your servicer decides based on your loan, income and documents.
Can I sell my home if I'm behind?
Often, yes, depending on the stage. A sale has to pay off the loan, or the lender must approve a short sale. An attorney can advise on your case.
Will talking to you obligate me to sell?
No. I'm happy to share information and a home value. You decide what's right for you.
Learn your options, privately and with no pressure
See my options before foreclosure guide or call or text me at (727) 291-7001. My assistant replies within about 60 seconds, day or night, and I personally handle every client.
Helpful sources: CFPB: Find a housing counselor · HUD.gov · VA.gov: Trouble making payments
Krystal Crichlow | eXp Realty · Palm Harbor, FL · (727) 291-7001 · Equal Housing Opportunity
This article is general information, not legal, tax, lending or financial advice. Programs, rules and limits can change; confirm details with the agency, your lender, a CPA or an attorney.
This page describes options only; no outcome is promised. Krystal is not an attorney, lender or housing counselor. Not affiliated with the VA or any government agency.
