If you’re worried about losing your home because you’re behind on mortgage payments, you’re not alone. Every day, homeowners across Alabama face unexpected challenges—job loss, illness, rising costs—that make keeping up with their mortgage harder than ever.
But here’s the good news: you may not have to lose your home.
There are real options to help you pause or reduce your payments temporarily, giving you time to recover and plan your next steps.
This blog breaks down:
- What temporary mortgage relief is
- The types of relief programs available
- How to apply
- What to do if you’re denied
- How Best Homes & Property Solutions can help you exit foreclosure with dignity and options
What Is Temporary Mortgage Relief?
Temporary mortgage relief is any short-term agreement with your mortgage servicer or lender that allows you to reduce or stop your monthly payments for a specific time period due to financial hardship. The two most common types are:
1. Forbearance
This allows you to pause or reduce payments for a period of time—typically 3 to 12 months. You are not forgiven for these payments, but they are delayed.
Example: If your mortgage is $1,200/month and you’re approved for a 6-month forbearance, you may pay $0 for 6 months and repay the $7,200 later (either in a lump sum, repayment plan, or at the end of the loan).
Good for: Temporary hardships like job loss, illness, or natural disasters.
2. Loan Modification
This is a permanent change to the original terms of your loan. It can include:
- Reducing the interest rate
- Extending the loan term
- Rolling missed payments into the loan balance
Result: A lower, more affordable monthly payment.
Good for: Long-term or permanent income reduction, divorce, or medical conditions.
How Do You Qualify for Relief?
To qualify for either forbearance or modification, most lenders will ask for:
- A written explanation of your hardship
- Proof of income or unemployment
- Recent bank statements
- Mortgage statements
- A complete application for assistance (often called “loss mitigation” paperwork)
Tip: Always call your lender’s “Loss Mitigation” or “Homeowner Assistance” department. This is NOT the same as general customer service.
How to Apply for Temporary Mortgage Relief in Alabama
- Call Your Mortgage Servicer Immediately
Waiting too long can result in foreclosure proceedings being started—even if you eventually qualify for relief. - Explain Your Situation Clearly
Be honest, specific, and proactive. Document your hardship (medical bills, job termination letters, etc.). - Request the Appropriate Option
Not all lenders automatically offer all programs. Ask about:- Forbearance
- Loan modification
- Repayment plans
- Partial claim programs (for FHA loans)
- Follow Up Regularly
Your request might take 30-60 days to process. Stay in contact and respond to any requests for documents quickly.
What If the Lender Says No?
Some homeowners don’t qualify for relief because:
- Their hardship is considered long-term or not severe enough
- They have already used forbearance recently
- The loan has already entered foreclosure or is severely delinquent
In these cases, selling your home quickly before foreclosure hits may be the best option—especially if:
- You have equity in the home
- You’re facing wage garnishment, credit damage, or eviction
- You need cash to start over
Alternative: Sell Before Foreclosure (Even If You Owe More Than the House Is Worth)
At Best Homes & Property Solutions, we help homeowners:
- Sell fast, often in under 14 days
- Avoid legal and credit consequences of foreclosure
- Get cash, even if the house needs work or you owe more than it’s worth
- Navigate short sales if you’re upside down on the mortgage
We’re not just house buyers—we’re here to help you weigh all your options.
Common Questions from Alabama Homeowners
Can I qualify for mortgage relief more than once?
Yes, but it depends on your loan type and your lender. Some relief options can be used multiple times if your hardship is different.
Will forbearance hurt my credit?
It depends. Some lenders report forbearance neutrally, others as late payments. It’s essential to get clear documentation from your lender before agreeing.
What happens after forbearance ends?
You’ll need to pay back the missed payments. This can be done in a lump sum, through a repayment plan, or as part of a loan modification.
Need Help Now? You’re Not Alone.
If your lender is unhelpful, you’re feeling overwhelmed, or time is running out, talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.
At Best Homes & Property Solutions, we specialize in helping homeowners like you avoid foreclosure, sell on their terms, and move forward with dignity.
Call us today at (256) 277-9888
Or Contact Us Now for a free, no-pressure consultation.