Message from Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard

The foreclosure crisis continues to have a devastating effect on families, neighborhoods and communities throughout Arizona.  Thousands have lost their homes or face severe hardships in trying to retain them.  Increasingly, families facing the possibility of losing their homes to foreclosure are vulnerable to con artists who promise relief, but, in reality, they rarely do. 

Last year, President Obama announced a foreclosure prevention plan, “Making Home Affordable,” an ambitious plan to stabilize the housing market and keep millions of families in their homes.  Arizona has one of the highest foreclosure rates in the country so this program was welcomed news.  The goal of moving borrowers into sustainable mortgages has been slower than anticipated, and servicers are constantly being urged to provide mortgage relief to many more struggling families. 

Unfortunately, desperate homeowners are falling prey to scam artists or so-called foreclosure “rescue” or loan modification companies that claim they can help you save your home.  Sadly, these fraudsters take your money, can ruin your credit, and wipe out the equity you have in your home.  The offers can look legitimate, but anyone guaranteeing results or charging upfront fees to “save your home” should be suspect. 

This Foreclosure Resource Center provides educational materials, helpful links, user-friendly resources, self-help tools and news and information on enforcement actions taken by the Attorney General’s Office against scam artists.  Additionally, you will find contact information to reach a HUD-approved housing counseling agency for legitimate housing assistance, at no cost.  As your Attorney General, I am committed to seeking solutions to the foreclosure crisis and to protecting Arizona families.

Sincerely,

Terry Goddard
Attorney General