Congressman Dreier has been working on ways to provide assistance to individuals affected by the recent housing slowdown.  Dreier said there are programs available through the Departments of Housing and Treasury for people with mortgages in default.  He has also supported legislation that will help homeowners avoid foreclosure by lowering their tax burden during refinancing and protect them from predatory lending.  “Owning your home must remain a part of the American dream, despite the ups and downs of our economy.  Right now, we need to help people get through this crisis and get their finances on solid ground.  Whether it’s credit counseling or tax relief for families facing foreclosure, there is help out there.  Ending the housing slow down is critical to the health of our economy and our nation.” 

If you are having trouble paying your mortgage, visit www.hopenow.com.  You may also contact your lender or a credit counselor at 1.888.995.HOPE.    Additional links to credit counseling information are - NeighborWorks America: http://www.nw.org/network/home.asp, Homeownership Preservation Foundation: http://www.995hope.org/, MyMoneyManagement: www.MyMoneyManagement.net