Facing Foreclosure? Local Brokerage Agent Says 'Do Not Move Out'

Janie Booth has been in the real estate industry in San Diego for over 13 years, she currently works in Carlsbad and is known for assisting a local families facing. foreclosure.

Carlsbad Patch asked Booth to provide advice for homeowners and tips for others in her industry:

How have you been helping clients during these tough economic times?  

Janie Booth: For instance, today I was able to help a homeowner who was being completely ignored  by the trustee and the foreclosure sale was in just 10 short days. Long story short, he had fallen on tough times, had tried unsuccessfully for a loan modification, but now had recovered enough with some assistance from a family member to bring his loan current. However, with the trustee ignoring him, they were terrified that the bank was going to foreclose.  After a little research and several tenacious phone calls on my part, they now have the quote and will be able to save his home from foreclosure.

Also today on one of my short sale files, I had to escalate to a vice-president because the bank still had not postponed the foreclosure sale set for the next business day! We not only were able to waive off the trustee sale, but the bank also gave us an approved price reduction.

On another short sale file that will be closing soon, the owner originally thought he had no other option but to walk away. Thankfully, his father-in-law asked him to call me. There is so much misinformation out there and homeowners are often confused or afraid. Mostly what I do is come along side and help them navigate through their options. Some of the stories are heartbreaking and complex, while others are fairly simple. Once  a client comes to me, we thoroughly discuss their hardship, obtain the necessary legal and tax advice, and then they are equipped to decide for themselves what is the best course of action.   

What advice do you have for families facing foreclosure? 

First, do not move out! Second, call an experienced and trusted Real Estate Professional.  Your Real Estate Professional can help you seek out the necessary legal and tax advice to thoroughly evaluate your situation and best options. Third, do not throw away any of the letters you receive from the bank as it will help assist your Real Estate Professional or attorney in evaluating your situation.

What advice do you have for other real estate agents? 

No matter what, do the right thing. This is a profession where we have the privilege of making a difference in the lives of distressed homeowners and you must always keep your clients best interest at heart. Most importantly, if you are not prepared to keep long hours and never give up, then send your clients to an agent who will.

What else do you want to tell people who are reading?   

There is no reason to suffer silently. Quickly seek the help.  There isn’t a person out there today that doesn’t know of someone who has fallen on hard times. To all of you who are too afraid , too confused, or just too embarrassed, I kindly encourage you to ask for help.  The more quickly you seek help, the more quickly you will be on the road to recovery. 

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