When a Death in the Family Sets Foreclosure in Motion

I recently attended an out of town visitation and funeral service.  The deceased was a wonderful woman who lived a long productive life, gracing the lives of the many who knew her.  What I found moving was that after spending several days with her family, I was reminded of how deeply the death of a loved one can affect those still living. 

Medical expenses is one of the leading hardship explanations for people who suffer foreclosure.  The death of a loved one is not far behind as a frequent cause of foreclosure.

When we lose a loved one, we may not function at our normal efficient level.  Add to that decreased effectiveness, the additional costs of the funeral home, casket, service (minister), grave site, headstone, hosting luncheon for bereaved family and friends.  If the deceased has not created a burial fund, and/or there is not insurance coverage, there can be from $7,000 to $12,000.  The additional expenses are often heaped on missed days of work and income, sometimes many missed days if you were the caretaker.

Some states protect heirs by requiring the banks to communicate with the widowed spouse, but all too often, getting information on the mortgage status is difficult and the mortgage can go into default before family members can figure out what the next step should be. 

If you have faced the financial hardship from the death of a loved one and are facing foreclosure, now, more than ever, you may need the experience and knowledge that a licensed attorney can provide.  WrongfullyForeclosed.com understands that life happens, and if you need to be introduced to a local attorney, who can represent you and help you protect your family home, come see us and tell us your story.  We will listen, even when the bank won’t.