Millions of American families are struggling to keep their homes and not sure where to go for help. The Northeast Atlanta Metro Association of REALTORS® (NAMAR) wants to help those homeowners learn how to avoid foreclosure and keep their home, and have launched www.UnnecessaryForeclosure.com to do so.

“The prospect of losing one's home can be overwhelming and stressful for homeowners,” says Tom O’Rourke, NAMAR's chief executive officer and executive vice president. “From predatory lending to topics like forbearance and reinstatement to short sales and where to find help that one can trust, foreclosure is a confusing and complicated process. UnnecessaryForeclosure.com provides honest, practical tips and advice in plain, easy-to-understand language.”

The Web site offers a list of nonprofit organizations dedicated to helping consumers avoid foreclosure, warning signs of predatory lenders and information on mortgages that could lead to trouble for homeowners. Detailed information on short sales and the short sale process and the tax implications of foreclosure is also available. Among the most useful pieces of information on the site is a list of common solutions that can be reached with a lender, such as repayment or loan modification. The site also offers references for consumers, which includes a series of informational brochures to educate homeowners and consumers on today's mortgage options. Lastly, the site provides information on how a REALTOR® can help. REALTORS® are in the business of homeownership, and can offer invaluable guidance and options for a homeowner in need.

“If a homeowner is behind on mortgage payments for any reason, or expecting to have problems in the near future, they should be proactive and work with experts and their lenders to find a solution now to avoid losing their home,” continues O’Rourke.

NAMAR has produced a series of videocasts to help consumers understand their options and give tips on how to avoid losing one's home. These videos can also be found at www.UnnecessaryForeclosure.com.

Established in 1969, the Northeast Atlanta Metro Association of REALTORS® (NAMAR) is the primary provider of services and resources to area REALTORS®. NAMAR is the second largest REALTOR® board in the state of Georgia. They provide value to their members by offering the programs, products and services that increase productivity and profitability. Visit www.NAMAR.org to learn more.