The scariest word to any homeowner is "Foreclosure".
It feels as if the sky has fallen in on you, your family and your home.
The first and most important way to handle foreclosure depends on your overall financial situation, common sense and willingness to make necessary changes.
Remind yourself you aren't alone in this.
This helps restore some measure of strength and endurance.
Don't stand still.
A single step forward makes all the difference to your situation.
Remember: Ground Zero is a starting, not ending point.
At the very least, it's important to explore all possible avenues to avoid foreclosure.
This means a lot of time and research into what's available to you through your mortgaging service and your local, state and federal government.
Don't let ignorance be an obstacle to circumventing foreclosure.
And, don't expect these government entities to be generous with this information.
Know that slush funds exist in nearly every state and at the federal levels.
Government just isn't as forthcoming about these reserves of cash for the cash-strapped.
After you have explored all avenues of assistance, it's time to take serious inventory.
Most people purchase much more than they ever really need.
How many of your possessions can be auctioned, sold or traded? When you are really at "bare bones" and have no other recourse, clear-headed planning of your next move is essential.
Make certain, if foreclosure is the only option, that all deposits you are owed for your mortgage, property taxes and utilities are returned to you.
In all cases never be afraid to negotiate or to get some one to negotiate for you.