Homeowner protection guide
If someone promises to save your home, slow down and verify.
Homeowners facing a deadline are often targeted with urgent language, large upfront fees, or papers that transfer more rights than they appear to. A legitimate conversation gives you room to read, ask questions, and get independent advice.
Warning signs to take seriously
- A promise to "guarantee" that foreclosure will stop or that your credit will not be affected.
- A request for a large upfront fee before the company explains the work in writing.
- Pressure to sign immediately, stop opening lender mail, or avoid speaking with your servicer.
- A document that is described as "temporary" but may transfer title, create a new loan, or give someone control of the property.
- A request to send mortgage payments to someone other than the servicer without clear written authorization.
- A buyer or investor who will not give you time to review a written offer and closing terms.
Use a safer checklist
Keep your loan-servicer contact information and call the number printed on your statement—not a number supplied by a stranger. Ask the servicer about loss mitigation and whether there is a sale date or pending legal action. For free or low-cost independent help, use HUD's South Carolina counseling resources.
Before signing a listing agreement, purchase agreement, deed, or power of attorney, read it fully and ask who is being paid, what you will receive, what deadlines apply, and what happens if the transaction does not close. For a foreclosure or bankruptcy deadline, consult an attorney rather than relying on an investor or general website.
A legitimate sale conversation should be transparent
A real estate conversation can still be useful when you are under pressure. You should receive a clear explanation of the proposed sale path, condition expectations, estimated timeline, and important contingencies. An as-is sale may be convenient in some cases, but it is not a substitute for understanding payoff, title, or legal issues.
What to do today
- Save the notice, envelope, text message, and any proposed documents.
- Call your servicer using the statement number and ask about your account and available review options.
- Get an independent legal or HUD-counseling perspective if a deadline exists.
- Only then compare property-sale alternatives using written terms.
Transparent property options
Want to compare a sale path without pressure?
We explain the property side in plain language. You decide whether any path makes sense.