Robinson The Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) is offering any homeowner in Houston the opportunity to have a free mortgage review which could result in lower interest rates. HAUL, the National Urban League and NeighborWorks America are working in partnership to provide mortgage mitigation counseling to homeowners at no cost. 
NeighborWorks America is the administrator of the National Foreclosure Mitigation Counseling (NFMC) program, authorized by Congress. Judson W. Robinson III, President and CEO of HAUL said the program is urgently needed in the Houston area.
“This program allows homeowners without any current mortgage issues to receive good information on how to remain in ‘healthy’ shape during these changing economic times.  Corporations, churches and other membership organizations are being encouraged to get this information out to those they have access to so that anyone who is interested may benefit from this service being offered. 
Also, statistics show that those who seek mortgage counseling before their mortgage is seriously delinquent fare better than those who seek assistance later.” HAUL’s mortgage counseling program is for all homeowners in the Houston area. 
This program helps homeowners in good standing to save money as well as help those at risk or in foreclosure. HAUL strives to help homeowners to quickly rebound and move forward in their lives.
Recent Case: A borrower was not in foreclosure or default and she was current on her mortgage.  However she has been advised by her employer that reduction in staff will take place in the near future. She currently has an adjustable rate mortgage that will readjust soon. Her HAUL counselor notified her lender and  pre-qualified her for the Making Home Affordable Mortgage Program (HAMP).  She was eligible for the program and will submit a package for assessment for a fixed rate escrowed account with principle, interest, taxes and insurance.  This was a proactive homeowner that took advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity to sustain home ownership while not in crisis.
HUD certified counselors are available to assist clients.  Program in-take is held twice each week on Tuesday and Wednesdays at 2:00 p.m. at the Urban League’s offices at 1301 Texas Avenue 
Call (713)393-8776 for scheduling information.