Have you just been served with a foreclosure notice and are unsure what to do next? Acting quickly can make the difference between keeping your home and losing it.
At the Law Office of Joel Gonzalez, we understand how stressful it can be to face foreclosure. There are practical steps you can take right now to protect your rights, review your legal options, and buy yourself the time you need.
In this guide, we’ll explain what to do after being served, common legal defenses that may apply, and how working with an experienced debt relief law firm can help prevent or delay foreclosure.
1. Read the Lawsuit Carefully and Mark Deadlines
The first step is to carefully review the documents you receive regarding foreclosure. In Texas, you typically have around 20 days to file a response (called an “answer”) if the foreclosure is handled through the courts. Missing this deadline can lead to a default judgment — meaning the lender could win automatically..
- Check for accuracy: Make sure your name, loan information, and property address are correct.
- Mark your calendar: Write down the response date and give yourself enough time to prepare your answer.
- Do not ignore it: Even if you think the lender is wrong, failing to respond will only hurt your case.
2. Learn Your Legal Defenses
Foreclosures are not always straightforward. There are legal defenses that can be raised to challenge the foreclosure or at least delay the process.
Some possible defenses include:
- The lender did not follow proper notice requirements under Texas law.
- There are errors in the loan documents or accounting.
- You are already in the process of a loan modification or repayment agreement.
Even if you cannot stop the foreclosure entirely, raising these issues can buy valuable time to work out a resolution with the lender.
3. Consider Negotiating with Your Lender
Many lenders are willing to work out alternatives before completing the foreclosure. These options can include:
- Loan modification– adjusting the terms of your mortgage to make payments affordable.
- Repayment plans– allowing you to catch up on missed payments over time.
- Short sale or deed-in-lieu– transferring the property voluntarily to avoid foreclosure being recorded against you.
Having legal representation during negotiations can help ensure your rights are protected and the agreement is enforceable.
4. Get Professional Legal Help Early
The foreclosure process moves quickly, and deadlines are strict. Consulting a debt relief law firm in Texas as soon as possible allows you to understand all available options, including bankruptcy or defense strategies, before it’s too late.
Taking Action Now Can Make All the Difference
What is your next step after receiving notice of foreclosure in Texas? Acting quickly can keep you from losing your home and give you time to work out a solution. The Law Office of Joel Gonzalez helps individuals facing foreclosure in Corpus Christi and surrounding areas by filing timely responses when required, raising available defenses, and negotiating with lenders when possible.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your home and move toward a fresh start.
