Make sure you also check out “to short sale or foreclose” as it closely relates to this article.  Everyone’s situation is different and it is always best to speak to someone like myself about your particular situation before you proceed.

If you or someone you know is concerned about losing their home, meeting their mortgage payment, rental issues, or even credit counseling before purchasing a home, get the help you need today. Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA), in partnership with Idaho Partners for Homebuyer Education Inc. (IPHBE), offers free Housing Counseling to consumers statewide, regardless of income.

Find Out More About IHFA’s Housing Counseling Services

• Foreclosure Prevention Counseling
• Rental Counseling
• Pre-purchase Counseling

What is Housing Counseling

Housing counselors in each IHFA branch office conduct confidential interviews with clients to discuss their housing needs and to help them find resources to meet housing challenges.

Housing counselors can assist you with a wide scope of situations, including:

• Identifying resources and solutions for housing problems;
• Providing information and education about housing resources, rights and responsibilities;
• Providing financial planning tools, either short- or long-term.
• Reviewing credit reports and helping with a debt reduction plan;
• Developing a budget with homeownership in mind;
• Applying for housing assistance;
• Prioritizing and budgeting for housing stability;
• Helping identify solutions for maintaining necessary utilities;
• Making referrals to Idaho Legal Aid for landlord/tenant issues. To contact a Legal Aid office in your area, visit: www.idaholegalaid.org.

If you are having problems paying your mortgage or rent, the best thing you can do is contact your lender or landlord to ask them about payment options as soon as you suspect you may not be able to pay your monthly mortgage payment or rent.

People in the following situations may qualify for housing counseling:

• Homeowners having trouble making their mortgage payment
• Renters and those having difficulty paying rent or utilities
• Those who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless
• Those interested in purchasing a home

Free Housing Counseling is available statewide by calling 1-877-888-3135 or by emailing mortgageserv@ihfa.org. Housing counselors in each IHFA branch office conduct confidential interviews with clients to discuss their housing needs and to help them find resources to meet housing challenges. Please contact the location nearest you for more information. When calling, please specify the type of counseling you’d like.