Figuring out how to stop foreclosures can often times be a significant issue for homeowners who have been issued a notice of default. After a notice of default has been provided, legally speaking, the foreclosure has been initiated. However, alternatives remain possible throughout the process, and especially so during the earlier stages of foreclosure. Of these alternatives, some may be still hold quite a negative impact, while others may be able to avoid the process entirely. First off, homeowners facing the threat of foreclosure may be able to benefit by speaking directly with their lender. Even though the lender is delivering the foreclosure, their position as a lender still allows them to offer alternatives, such as a repayment plan, or loan modification. When a lender cannot be of any help, other alternatives include bankruptcy, HUD counseling, or a short sale. Options such as bankruptcy, however, are not always a very beneficial alternative, as they still have a negative impact credit-wise and could sometimes be worse than foreclosure, all depending on the circumstances at hand.