Notes from Charlotte County, Florida

Homeowners facing foreclosure need information, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers a one-stop shop online that can help.  "The Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure is an easy-to-use site allowing users to quickly search information specific to their needs," says HUD Secretary Steve Preston. "The streamlined Web site educates individuals on the many ways HUD can assist them through these trying times and help them hold on to their homes."

The Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure links homeowners to housing counselors, lenders, local resources, refinancing options, FHASecure, HOPE for Homeowners, and information about the foreclosure process and possible alternatives.

The Guide to Avoiding Foreclosure can be found on HUD's home page (http://www.hud.gov) or by going directly to: www.hud.gov/foreclosure