Know your rights in Florida foreclosure law

Lenders can't just sweep in and take away your home. They have to follow a specific process dictated by foreclosure laws in Florida. For example, the homeowner in Florida has the right to redeem the property at any time before the home is sold; but after the deed of sale is issued, the home cannot be redeemed. If you know your rights, you will know how to help yourself.

I recommend: Research Florida foreclosure law at Advantage Mitigation Service or U.S. Homestead. Also, Foreclosure University outlines foreclosure laws in Florida.

Seek out someone to help with the Florida foreclosure process

There are several agencies out there to help homeowners go through the Florida foreclosure recovery process. In Florida, there are several free services available through government agencies or non-profit organizations that give out Florida foreclosure recovery information.

I recommend: Seek out a Florida housing counselor that is certified through the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These counselors are specifically trained to help distressed homeowners find out their options. Consumer Credit Counseling Service also offers a free online course which outlines the options of homeowners who want to keep their home.

Try to work with your lender before starting a Florida foreclosure process

One of the best options for Florida homeowners in distress is for them, or a representative on their behalf, to talk with the lender. A foreclosure is expensive for lenders and often times they are willing to work with homeowners and give them deals to avoid foreclosure.

I recommend: Look for Florida foreclosure lawyers who will help you work with your lender. They will know Florida foreclosure laws better than anyone else.

Watch out for mortgage recovery scams

The Federal Trade Commission warns that there are plenty of bad guys operating in the foreclosure recovery business who will take your money and provide no service. Some warning signs, according to the FTC: advertising terms like "guarantee" and "97% success rate", upfront fees before services and company names or websites designed to make you think you're dealing with a government or nonprofit agency.

I recommend: Educate yourself about foreclosure recovery scams through the Federal Trade Commission.  The FTC recommends you only seek foreclosure help from government sanctioned counseling agencies like the ones recommended by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or the federal Making Home Affordable program.