Obtaining a mortgage is likely one of the most significant financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. Asking the right questions before you choose a loan can mean the difference between obtaining a loan you can afford and losing your home to foreclosure.

Also, if you are behind in your mortgage payments, these materials contain important information about the steps you should take to prevent foreclosure and avoid falling prey to foreclosure rescue scams. Additionally, you may contact the Homeowners' Referral Helpline at (866) 544-7151 to report an abusive mortgage lender or to learn more about your options for avoiding foreclosure.

For homeowners in foreclosure, a new Illinois law requires mortgage lenders to provide borrowers with a notice of their legal rights and options when filing a foreclosure lawsuit. To review these rights and options, please review: Homeowners in Foreclosure: Know Your Rights.