AVOID FORECLOSURE
by ABC2 News Investigator Tisha Thompson

The Center for Responsible Lending estimates 22% of subprime loans (make this link to Lending Lingo page) will go into foreclosure next year. Congressman Elijiah Cummings (D-MD) wants you to complain to him if you think foreclosures are out of control. “I need people to be fiery about it,” he says so he can push for new laws.

Write Congressman Cummings or your local Congressional representative.

We have compiled a list below of local and state groups who want you to call them if you or someone you know is at risk for foreclosure. Maryland has one of the fastest foreclosure laws in the nation. Banks only have to notify you 15 days before they sell your house, so all the consumer advocates agree: DO NOT WAIT TO ACT. “Don’t put your head in the sand and do nothing,” says Phillip Robinson of Civil Justice Network, a legal-aid group in Baltimore trying to help homeowners avoid foreclosure. “If you do nothing, you will lose your home.”

WHERE TO GO TO GET HELP