Benefits of Housing & Foreclosure Counselors

Housing counselors can help you assess your situation and suggest realistic and sustainable choices and options to increase income and/or reduce other debts.  Counselors often have a great deal of knowledge about local resources that may be available.  At your direction, a housing counselor will work with your mortgage company to discuss possible solutions and options. 

What can I do to prepare for working with my mortgage company and/or a HUD approved housing counselor?

It would be helpful to have the following information on hand:

• Your loan account number (found on your monthly mortgage statement).
• A brief explanation of your circumstances.
• Recent income documents (such as pay stubs; benefit statements from Social Security, Disability, Unemployment, Retirement, or Public Assistance.  If you are self-employed, have your tax returns or a year-to date Profit and Loss statement available for reference).
• List of household expenses.

What is the difference between HUD-approved and MSHDA-approved housing Counselors?

HUD approval comes from the federal level, while MSHDA approval comes from the State of Michigan.  Housing Counseling Agencies approved by either HUD or MSHDA are considered credible counseling agencies.

Where can I find a HUD or MSHDA certified housing counselor?

Select this this link for a complete list