Throughout Florida, we see the number of foreclosures continue to rise. While Winter Park may have been more stable when the housing crisis began, the community is now feeling the impact of the foreclosure wave that is washing over our state and nation.

A recent report by RealtyTrac, Inc. found that Orlando's four county region, including the city of Winter Park, had nearly 8,000 homes with a foreclosure filing, notice of foreclosure or repossession by a lending group. This figure has doubled since last year's data collection. Now, more than ever, I hear from worried homeowners asking questions like: "What should I do if I can't pay my mortgage?" and "What should I do if I'm served a foreclosure notice?" People think there is little that can be done to defend against foreclosure. Good news that is absolutely not true.

Understand that many people, including elected officials and community groups at all levels, are working tirelessly to slow the rate of new foreclosures. There are, however, a few attempting to take advantage of scared, inexperienced homeowners who are faced with losing everything. My Advice: don't be afraid, get informed.

The most critical first step for individuals faced with mortgage foreclosure is to find and secure the services of an experienced attorney, familiar with these issues. A foreclosure filing should be viewed like a lawsuit, and you'll need someone who can successfully litigate your case. A thorough understanding of your mortgage right, which include, but are not limited to, loan modifications, is of the highest importance.

Be wary of non-attorneys offering assistance as they have no leverage in dealing with lenders. In the end, they cannot do anything to help their clients if a foreclosure case goes to court. Lenders have become keenly aware of this deficiency, and they will exploit your team's weakness.

There are a number of benefits linked to working with a reputable foreclosure attorney who can who can lead a dynamic defense. Your attorney will work to delay or stop foreclosure, and you will be able to set aside funds that can be used when seeking reinstatement. Furthermore, people who put up a strong defense have an extra leverage and are well positioned for future reinstatement. Working with a defense attorney, borrowers affected by foreclosures can use the legal process to achieve fair loan modification – a solution that allows people to keep their homes. This route reworks the terms of an existing mortgage, thereby lowering monthly payments and making the loan more affordable.

This can play out in various ways, including; the principal balance of the loan can be reduced; the interest rate lowered, and some or all of the past-due payments can even be eliminated. Essentially, homeowners get a new start on their credit report and improve their credit scores over a matter of months. Each situation is a different, and you must work with your trusted advisers to decide the best course of action for you and your family.

While the process may seem overwhelming, the bottom line is … a reputable attorney will be able to set you on the right course toward keeping your home. If you're in trouble, unable to make your mortgage payments or if a foreclosure complaint has already been filed against you, please do your homework and find experienced legal representation.

Matt Englett is a foreclosure defense attorney with the Orlando based firm of Kauffman, Englett And Lynd. He can be reached at 407-513-1901.

Published: October 15, 2009

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