Poll: Most Don't Know About Workout Options

A poll of late-paying mortgage borrowers finds that 57% aren't aware that their lender may be able to offer plans that would help them avoid foreclosure. However, when specific workout alternatives were mentioned, the percentage of homeowners aware of options like repayment plans and loan modifications actually increased. The poll, commissioned by Freddie Mac and conducted by Roper Public Affairs and Media, also found that 44% of delinquent borrowers are aware of the existence of housing counselors who can talk to them about their mortgage problems. The survey indicated that the percentage of delinquent homeowners who say they recall their mortgage servicer reaching out to them has increased, to 86%, up from 75% in a similar survey three years ago.