BHPC is now on Facebook!
The Baltimore Homeownership Preservation Coalition is on Facebook!
Why don't you check us out? And while you're there, click the "Like" button! You'll receive regular updates in your News Feed about foreclosure and other related issues in Baltimore and beyond.
Landlord Foreclosed? Renters Have Rights! NEW Outreach Campaign
BHPC, in partnership with the Public Justice Center, just launched our NEW city-wide outreach campaign, "Landlord Foreclosed? Renters Have Rights"!
Did you know that an estimated 40% of all foreclosure starts in Baltimore City are for investor-owned residential properties?
If you are a renter whose landlord is facing foreclosure...
- Open all mail addressed to "occupant" or "current resident", especially if it comes from a court, law firm, bank or real estate agent.
- Pay your landlord rent until you receive notice from the new buyer after the foreclosure is complete.
- Seek legal advice before accepting a "cash for keys" deal (when the bank offers you a sum of money to vacate the property immediately).
- Contact the not-for-profit Public Justice Center for trustworthy and FREE legal advice at (410) 625-9409.
Keep an eye out for our bus tails, too!
Download one of our FREE informational brochures.
Homeowners Beware: Loan Scam Alert!
Scammers are taking advantage of desperate homeowners facing foreclosure! Educate yourself: know the signs, get the facts.
DO NOT TRUST anyone who...
- Guarantees to stop foreclosure.
- Instructs you not to contact lender, lawyer, housing or credit counselor.
- Collects fee before providing service.
- Accepts payment only by cashier's check or wire transfer.
- Encourages leasing of home to "buy back over time".
- Requires mortgage payments be made to them, rather than lender or servicer.
- Asks for deed or title to be transferred to them.
- Offers to buy house for cash at fixed price not set by market.
- Offers to fill out paperwork on your behalf.
- Pressures you to sign paperwork you haven't thoroughly read or don't understand.
The NeighborWorks America Loan Modification Scam Alert website has plenty of consumer-friendly information! Visit their site to learn more about protecting yourself from scams.
Worried you've been a victim of mortgage or foreclosure fraud?
Report it to the Maryland Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation by calling 1-888-784-0136.
See also the Avoiding Foreclosure Scams page on our website.