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Updated: 6:36 PM Jul 28, 2008
On Your Side: Avoiding Foreclosure
Housing leaders and others were in Augusta on Monday looking to help people who are, or may be, facing a foreclosure on their home. Posted: 6:21 PM Jul 28, 2008Reporter: Gene Petriello Email Address: gene.petriello@wrdw.com |
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1 Comments 
News 12 at 6 o'clock; July 28, 2008
AIKEN CTY, S.C. --- It's a sign of the times. Foreclosures are up 121% compared to this time last year.
Recently, Sheila Barton is seeing six clients a day asking for help to save their homes.
"It's frustrating because I believe the clients that come in don't know where to turn," says Sheila.
We're On Your Side with ways you can stay under your own roof.
First, prioritize your expenses. Simply, pay the bills that are necessary for you to survive.
Second, save money. The more you have, the more you can use in an emergency.
Third, reduce your expenses. Don't spend money where you don't need to.
Fourth, protect your credit score. Don't make late payments.
Finally, talk with a housing counselor. They’re always there to help and the best part is, it's free to talk to them.
"Everyone has individual problems, individual situations and that's how we approach it," says Sheila.
But, do you have signs of trouble lurking? Take action today. Don't wait. Talk to a counselor and call your lender.
Don't throw away late payment notices either. Know what options are out there, talk with the experts.
Finally, do not give up hope. Your home can be saved.
"When they leave happy, that makes me feel like I've done my job," says Sheila.
Resources to Stop Foreclosures:
P.O. Box 1212
Augusta, Georgia 30903-1212
Phone: (803) 278-1212 ext. 450
Fax: (803) 442-4561
At WRDW News 12, we receive hundreds of phone calls and letters weekly from people with consumer problems. Many situations can be resolved with a simple phone call. Here is a "printer-friendly list" of Consumer Agencies and Phone Numbers.
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