Foreclosure Questions Spike 12% on JustAnswer as Homeowners Seek Help

Foreclosure concerns are on the rise, according to data from JustAnswer, a platform connecting people with verified experts. From January through September 2026, the number of questions related to foreclosure increased by 12%, with a 14% rise specifically in mortgage foreclosure inquiries. This trend comes as national foreclosure activity continues to climb, with ATTOM’s August 2026 U.S. Foreclosure Market Report showing a 13% increase in foreclosure filings and a 42% jump in completed foreclosures compared to the same period a year earlier.

The surge in questions on JustAnswer reflects the challenges homeowners face as they navigate the complex process of foreclosure. Many homeowners are seeking guidance on how to extend or stop the foreclosure process, how to keep their homes when a co-owner is not paying, and how to sell their property before a foreclosure auction.

These questions highlight the personal and financial struggles homeowners face, often with little time to act. Depending on the circumstances and applicable state law, homeowners may have options such as negotiating a loan modification, establishing a repayment arrangement, or selling the property before foreclosure. However, the availability of these options can depend on where a homeowner is in the foreclosure process.

Refinancing, while often seen as a solution, can present its own set of challenges. JustAnswer recorded a 9% year-over-year increase in questions about refinancing difficulties. Many of these inquiries centered on obstacles beyond interest rates or loan qualifications, including outstanding liens, unresolved probate matters, and disagreements between co-owners.

The broader financial pressures facing recent homebuyers add context to these concerns. According to Truework’s 2026 Recent Homebuyer Report, 88% of recent buyers with a mortgage said a single setback, such as a job loss, major repair, or medical bill, could put their monthly payment at risk. While receiving a foreclosure notice can be alarming, it does not necessarily mean a homeowner has exhausted every available option. However, the remedies available can vary substantially by state, loan type, and stage of the foreclosure process. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends contacting the mortgage servicer and seeking help from a HUD-approved housing counselor. Homeowners who have received foreclosure papers should also seek guidance about the deadlines and legal requirements that apply to their situation.

Since 2003, millions of customers have turned to JustAnswer for trusted guidance from more than 20,000 verified and licensed professionals, making it a valuable resource for those navigating the complexities of foreclosure and refinancing.