Behind on your mortgage? Read this article for helpful strategies to avoid foreclosure and protect your future.
If you’re behind on your mortgage payments in Savannah, Georgia, you’re not alone. Life happens — job loss, rising expenses, unexpected medical bills — and falling behind can happen fast. But it’s important to know this: foreclosure is not the only outcome. There are ways to regain control of your situation.
Whether you’re just one payment behind or several months in arrears, taking action now is critical. The longer you wait, the fewer options remain available. Below are proven, practical steps you can take today to avoid foreclosure in Savannah and potentially keep your home.
Help! I’m Behind in My Mortgage Payments in Savannah! Here Are 5+ Options You Can Explore
1. Bankruptcy – A Temporary Lifeline
Bankruptcy can stop foreclosure proceedings — at least temporarily — through an automatic stay. This gives you time to reorganize your finances or liquidate assets. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows you to pay off late payments over time, while Chapter 7 could delay things but won’t fix the mortgage. Always consult with a local bankruptcy attorney before taking this path.
2. Loan Reaffirmation – Know What You’re Signing
Reaffirming your loan reestablishes your personal liability. It’s essentially agreeing to continue paying your mortgage under the original or renegotiated terms. This might help you rebuild credit, but in some states, it could put you at risk for additional liability if the property is foreclosed later. Ask your lender about the pros and cons in your specific case.
3. Federal Assistance Programs – Explore Your Eligibility
Homeowners in Savannah may still qualify for relief programs like the Making Home Affordable (MHA) Program, especially if your loan is backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, VA, or FHA.
Options under these programs may include:
- Lowering your monthly mortgage payment
- Reducing your interest rate
- Temporary payment forbearance if you’re unemployed or underemployed
- Principal balance forgiveness in extreme hardship situations
These programs change frequently, so it’s best to work with a housing counselor approved by HUD or your loan servicer directly.
4. Negotiate Directly with Your Lender
Believe it or not, most banks would prefer to avoid foreclosure just as much as you would. A foreclosure is expensive, time-consuming, and often results in a loss for the lender.
Call your loan servicer and ask to speak with the loss mitigation department. Some lenders offer in-house solutions like:
- Loan modifications (changing terms to make payments affordable)
- Repayment plans (spreading out past-due payments over time)
- Forbearance agreements (pausing or reducing payments temporarily)
Be prepared with documentation showing your hardship, income, and budget. Patience and persistence go a long way — and always keep records of every call and email.
5. Work with a Private Real Estate Investor
If you’re behind on your mortgage and need to sell your home fast in Savannah, working with a trusted local real estate investor can be a great alternative to foreclosure. At Birddog Investment Group, we specialize in helping homeowners avoid foreclosure by offering fast, fair cash offers — often within 24 hours.
Benefits include:
- We buy your house as-is — no repairs needed
- No real estate agent commissions or closing fees
- You pick the closing date — in as little as 7 days
Even if you’d prefer to stay in your home, we may be able to work out a solution. Contact us today to learn what’s possible.
6. Consider a Short Sale (With Lender Approval)
A short sale allows you to sell your home for less than what you owe on the mortgage — with the lender’s permission. While it can affect your credit, it’s often less damaging than a full foreclosure and can help you walk away with dignity.
We can help you navigate the short sale process and present your case to the bank.
7. Get Help from HUD-Approved Housing Counselors
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Housing counselors certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offer free services and can help you understand your options, prepare documents, and even negotiate with lenders.
Visit HUD.gov/findacounselor to find local support.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Temporary Setback Turn Into Permanent Loss
We understand how overwhelming it can feel to fall behind on your mortgage. But foreclosure is not inevitable. The key is to take action early and explore every available path before it’s too late.
Whether you need to catch up on payments, explore government assistance, or sell your home quickly to avoid foreclosure, we’re here to support you.