I will answer my own question, and I would only send people to makinghomeaffordable.gov I recenly earned the first recognized certification in forclosure and short sales, and this website had all the latest updated information on government programs designed to work with banks. There are a lot of so called "experts" online that are all too willing to take a fee upfront to "help" you navigate this process. Be careful with whom you share your personal financial information. And beware paying someone in advance and endlessly waiting. You may lose your home during that time. When in doubt, consult a real estate attoney.