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Act Now To Get Mortgage Relief

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By STACIE SCHAIBLE

sschaible@wfla.com

Published: March 14, 2009

Laura Roper of Lakeland says she and her husband feel trapped by their mortgage even though they aren't yet behind on payments.

Her e-mail says: "My husband called two months in a row and the mortgage company told us each time there was nothing that could be done, that there was no program for people like us. They told us to miss a few payments then they could help us."

Eligible For Rescue?
Roper may find help from the federal economic recovery plan, according to U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa.

"You do not have to be in arrears or behind on your mortgage; the help will be available if you see the tidal wave coming. If you know you're in trouble, you could be eligible for refinancing."

Castor says it's important to act now. Besides calling your lender, you can start by contacting a HUD-certified housing counselor in your area.

"Folks who have already entered foreclosure, it may be a little too late. But for the responsible homeowners who have been paying their mortgage but their property values have decreased to such an extent that they're having a tough time, they will now be able to refinance."

Castor points out that not everyone is eligible for help, such as real estate speculators who own more than one home. But she says now is the time to find out if you're eligible for rescue.

Go to TBO.com, Keyword: Links, to find a HUD-certified counselor.

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