Union Privilege has developed a program for AFT member homeowners who are looking to either stay ahead of the game, falling behind in payments, or in foreclosure.  The program is the SAVE MY HOME HOTLINE.

This hotline provides free confidential telephone counseling 24 hours a day. There is also face-to-face counseling available in 22 states.

Help is only a phone call away at (866) 490-5361.

Tips on Avoiding Home Foreclosure

The mortgage foreclosure crisis, fueled by years of unchecked predatory lending practices and a speculative bubble in real estate prices, has been a disaster for millions of America’s homeowners. While Congress, state governments and organizations such as the AFL-CIO work to find long-term answers to the crisis, many homeowners need help right now in avoiding foreclosure and keeping their homes. Here are some tips from experts you, your family and friends can use to keep from losing your home:

• Open and respond to all mail from your lender. The first notices you receive will offer information about foreclosure-prevention options that can help you weather financial problems. Later mail may include important notices of pending legal action.
   
• Know your rights. Review your loan documents for the specific language regarding actions the lender can and cannot take in case of nonpayment. Research the foreclosure laws and timeframes in your state by contacting your state government housing office.
  
• Talk to a housing counselor. If you are a union member, you can call the Union Plus Save My Home Hotline, at 1/866/490-5361 to find a HUD-approved housing counselor in your state.
  
• Be on the lookout for scams. If any company or individual promises they can stop your foreclosure immediately if you sign a document appointing them to act on your behalf, you may well be signing over the title to your property and becoming a renter in your own home. Never sign a legal document without reading and understanding all the terms and getting professional advice from an attorney, a trusted real estate professional or a certified housing counselor.
  
• Set some spending priorities. Review your budget to see where you can cut spending to find the extra cash you need for your mortgage payment.

  AFT Local 943
  15521 South 70th Court
  Orland Park, Illinois 60462
  (708) 633-0943
  (708) 633-0944 (Fax)

  Kathy Setlak, president

  IFT Field Staff