For Homeowners

Click to download the homeowner flyer in English and Spanish.

If you are having trouble paying your mortgage, it is important to act quickly and to seek help from trustworthy resources. The best thing any homeowners can do is contact a HUD and CHFA-Certified counseling agency. 

Experienced housing counselors, certified through the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), and the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA), help homeowners who are in danger of losing their homes.

Housing counselors can also help you understand and take advantage of other types of assistance. ROOF has two counseling partners in New Haven who provide this free service:

                Greater New Haven Community Loan Fund (203) 624-7406
               
The ROOF Project and partners also hold foreclosure orientation clinics that offer homeowners information about the judicial foreclosure and mediation process, along with guidance on the free resources and assistance available. For more information and a schedule, visit the Clinics page. For a legal to representing yourself in foreclosure, see CT Fair Housing Center's "Representing Yourself in Foreclosure: A Guide for Connecticut Homeowners."

Every case is different - you may need help from a lawyer or job training to help you get back into the workforce.  The Connecticut Judicial Branch has a new volunteer attorney program where homeowners can get free help related to foreclosures every Wednesday morning at New Haven Superior Court. Or you might be eligible for a program through the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority.

Any homeowner facing foreclosure should also participate in the Connecticut Foreclosure Mediation Program by filling out the appropriate forms received along with foreclosure papers from the court.  Homeowners benefit from the assistance of a mediator who works with the homeowner and the lender to try to negotiate a solution, such as new loan terms that make it possible for a homeowner to stay.

Remember, you should never have to pay help for your mortgage!  Many scammers guarantee modifications and demand upfront fees.  See tips for avoiding scams.  If you think you might be a victim of a scam, follow these simple steps to report the scam.