When you are stuck in a difficult financial situation and are having trouble making your monthly mortgage payment, it can often feel like you have nowhere to turn. But in reality, homeowners have access to a number of resources when it comes to solving problems with a mortgage. Foreclosure help may be just a phone call away.

Try to assess your situation objectively. Is the crisis you are facing a temporary dilemma, or do you think you may have difficulty keeping up with your mortgage for the foreseeable future? If a short-term fix can help you get out of the mortgage mess you are in, it may be worth it to try to negotiate forbearance or a repayment plan. However, if you think that hanging on to your home may prove to be impossible, your lender can help you determine whether another option may allow you to avoid foreclosure, such as arranging a short sale for the property.

If negotiations with your lender have come to a standstill and you feel like you are not making any progress, it may be beneficial to seek the advice of a third party. The federal government has set up several hotlines to help troubled homeowners connect with certified counselors and financial advisors that can walk you through your options. In the United States, call 1-800-569-4287 for a list of HUD-approved counselors in your area.