Talk to a housing counselor immediately if you see these signs (see sidebar for help finding a legitimate counselor). You may be able to get your finances back on track before foreclosure becomes a reality.

For homeowners facing foreclosure - Foreclosure Prevention Counseling
Some of the warning signs of foreclosure.

Unexpected life changes are often a contributing factor to foreclosure – especially those that impact your finances, such as:
• Loss of employment or reduction of hours
• Major illness or injury
• Divorce or separation
• Death of a spouse

What makes it so difficult to think about foreclosure during times of crisis is that you are so focused on the problem at hand and not likely to have the time or energy to think about how it could impact other aspects of your life. That is why a plan that was developed before any problem starts is the best protection.

If you have a "Plan B" in place, you won't have to organize your finances while you are stressed about finding a job or dealing with a major illness. The plan will already be done – you will need to just follow it.