San Jose, and its surrounding neighborhoods, has experienced a 140% increase in foreclosures over the past two years, from 5,838 in 2007 to 13,989 in 2008. This is consistent with the nationwide housing downturn caused by what many experts like to label as "the subprime lending crisis" immediately followed by the "liquidity crisis". No matter what caused the housing downturn (irresponsible lending habits of "major" banks, subprime loans, over-anxious home buyers, unscrupulous financial derivatives) we are all faced with a real dilemma that cannot go ignored. It's nice to know that our local REALTORS are volunteering their time to help those in need.

To date, foreclosures have concentrated in specific geographic areas, particularly in East San Jose, Central San Jose, and along the southern stretch of Highway 101. The number of foreclosure filings is expected to remain high for some time, as a large amount of outstanding bad loans remain. In addition, the region is experiencing a rise in unemployment due to the housing-induced economic recession, exposing more households to the danger of defaulting on their mortgage.

In an effort to respond to the rapid increase in foreclosures, the City has convened the Foreclosure Prevention Task Force, comprised of nonprofit and real estate industry partners. The Task Force has adopted an aggressive and comprehensive strategy that includes prevention, intervention, family re-stabilization and neighborhood stabilization activities under the ForeclosureHELP Program.

Foreclosure Help through the City of San Jose provides information and referral services to assist families impacted by foreclosure navigate through the foreclosure process. Services provided include prevention, intervention and family re-stabilization. Local REALTORS are volunteering their time to assist those at-risk homeowners by discussing their foreclosure alternatives.  Volunteer staff will meet with at-risk homeowners (FREE of charge) to determine their circumstances and connect them with the appropriate resources such as HUD-certified foreclosure prevention counselors, non-profit legal services, emergency financial assistance and other housing services.

If you or anyone you know might need assistance, please send them to the Foreclosure Resource Center website (www.ForeclosureHelpSCC.org) so that they can contact a representative and setup an appointment. The website provides information on the necessary forms for at-risk homeowners to fill out and bring with them, a list of potential foreclosure scams to be aware of including a list of ways to avoid them, legislative updates regarding foreclosure, a common questions and answer section, and much more. There is also a section available to report neglected and vacant homes so that the City can ensure that our neighborhoods stay safe.