Highlands County SHIP Program – Foreclosure Prevention

How it works

Highlands County says foreclosure prevention funds are for qualified homeowners who are behind on their first mortgage. The default must have been caused by circumstances beyond the applicant’s control that constitute an emergency. The page says eligible reasons include loss of employment, sudden medical expenses, divorce, death in the family, or an unforeseen home repair bill.

What the money covers

• Mortgage arrearages on the first mortgage

Amounts and repayment

• Assistance is provided as a loan at 0% interest.
• The loan is secured by a recorded mortgage and promissory note.
• The page does not state a dollar cap.

How to apply

• Applicants must submit the Foreclosure Prevention Application.
• The mortgage holder must be a lending institution, not a private individual.

Timing and deadlines

• The arrearage must be at least three months but no more than six months.
• The applicant cannot be under an active foreclosure action.