Missed Mortgage Payments?
Watch the video below where I walk you through the biggest mistakes homeowners make when talking to their lender, and what to say instead so you can keep your options open.
If you’re behind on mortgage payments, it’s not just about what you say to your lender, it’s about what you don’t say. One wrong sentence can wreck your chances of getting help and speed you toward foreclosure.
It happens fast, the bank calls, you answer, and without thinking, you say something that feels honest and harmless.
But what you don’t know is that those words could kill your chances of getting help… and push you closer to foreclosure.
Why Your Words Matter More Than You Think
When you call your bank, you’re not just talking to a friendly customer service rep. You’re speaking to someone whose notes will go into your file, notes that can either help or hurt your case.
The bank records:
- The exact words you say.
- Your attitude and tone.
- Any statements that signal risk, like admitting you can’t pay at all or that you’re walking away.
Even if you’re frustrated, you can’t afford to blurt things out just to “be honest.” The wrong phrase can push your lender to fast-track legal action instead of offering solutions.
Mistake #1 — Admitting You Can’t Pay at All
If you say: “I can’t make my payments anymore” or “I have no way to pay”, the bank may classify you as non-recoverable. That can shut down certain assistance programs before you even apply.
Better approach: Focus on temporary hardship and steps you’re taking to get back on track.
Mistake #2 — Mentioning Bankruptcy Too Early
Throwing the word “bankruptcy” into a first conversation can cause your lender to stop all other work-out options while they wait to see if you’ll file.
Better approach: Explore repayment plans, forbearance, or modification before you discuss legal options — unless bankruptcy truly is your next step.
Mistake #3 — Giving an Exact Sale Date Without a Plan
Telling your bank, “I’m selling the house next month” when you haven’t even listed it yet makes you look unprepared, and they know sales fall through.
Better approach: If you’re considering selling, show that you have an active plan, agent chosen, property listed, timeline set.
Mistake #4 — Ignoring Their Questions or Calls
Silence doesn’t buy you time. It buys you fees, late charges, and a lender who assumes you’ve abandoned the property.
Better approach: If you can’t answer right away, call back promptly. Consistent communication shows you’re engaged, which can buy you more options.
Mistake #5 — Admitting You’re Prioritizing Other Bills
If you tell your bank you’re paying other debts before your mortgage, they’ll assume the house is not your priority, and may accelerate foreclosure.
Better approach: Keep the focus on your mortgage as your primary concern, even if you’re juggling other bills in the background.
Mistake #6 — Saying You’ll Pay “Next Month” Without Proof
This sounds like a delay tactic, and lenders hear it every day from people who never follow through.
Better approach: If you promise payment, be ready to back it up with a date, amount, and method.
Mistake #7 — Getting Angry on the Call
The person on the line can’t stop your foreclosure alone, but they can make notes about your attitude. Hostile calls often lead to less flexibility later.
Better approach: Stay calm, no matter how frustrated you feel. Your goal is to keep the door open to solutions.
Why This Matters If You’re Behind on Mortgage Payments
Every conversation with your lender either moves you toward help or toward foreclosure. The more carefully you handle those conversations, the more options you’ll have, whether that’s keeping your home, restructuring your loan, or selling before the clock runs out.
The wrong sentence can lead to a legal notice in your mailbox before you even realize it’s the start of foreclosure. And once that clock starts, every month, sometimes every week, matters.
Next — The Letter That Changes Everything
Avoiding these mistakes is one thing. But what happens when a certain legal notice shows up in your mailbox?
Most homeowners toss it aside without realizing it’s the official start of foreclosure, and by the time they find out, it’s already too late to undo the damage.
In my next video, I’ll break down exactly what that notice means, how it’s served, and what you must do the moment it arrives.
Because if you miss that window… you could lose your home without ever knowing you had a chance to stop it.
FAQs — Behind on Mortgage Payments
Q: What happens after I miss one mortgage payment?
A: Your lender will mark your account as delinquent and may start contacting you. Late fees apply, and missing more than one payment can trigger default procedures.
Q: Can talking to my bank hurt my chances of getting help?
A: Yes, if you say the wrong thing. Certain statements can make you ineligible for programs or speed up foreclosure.
Q: How can I prepare before calling my lender?
A: Have your account info ready, know your hardship reason, and prepare a clear plan or request, like asking about repayment options.
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