Of all properties that were foreclosed last year, something like 80% of the owners did virtually nothing to intervene and help themselves.

Hard to say why, but my guess is that most people feel it's useless to try to stop or slow the process. Lenders aren't great at offering any useful information, and I have to say that distressed owners feel no one is listening to them anyway.  Then, too, there's the embarrassment of it all.

The Oregon legislature has made it mandatory for foreclosing lenders to confer with the owner and go over available options. It's a start.

But the best start comes from the owner. Don't be afraid to pick up that phone and call your lender's Loss Mitigation Dept.--BEFORE the Notice of Default comes out. You'll be amazed at how much that simple step will help.