The city of Tallahassee held a Foreclosure Workshop that local residents described as “helpful.”
Attorney Keith Halpern gave legal advice to community members who have received notice of foreclosure from their lending institutions and those looking to prevent the much-feared occurrence.
The Division of Equity and Workforce Development presented “Prevent Foreclosure: Education and Information Workshop” on Thursday night at the B.L. Perry Jr. Branch Library.
At the workshop, Halpern shared options for those who are facing foreclosur,e including the forbearance program and modifications. Halpern also addressed individual questions from residents who attended.
“The workshop was very positive. So many in (the area) are in foreclosure,” said Tallahassee resident and homeowner Michael Carter. “This gives the opportunity for citizens to get options.”
Workshop attendee Jackie Miller said Halpern’s advice was some of the best she has heard so far concerning her issues of foreclosure. Miller said the workshop taught her the importance of putting her complaints with her lender in writing.
Tallahassee remains a community affected by the national economic downturn. As of June, Tallahassee’s rate of foreclosure was slightly higher than the national rate of three percent, with a percentage of more than five-percent, according to CoreLogic’s latest reports.
Workshop coordinator and Interim Manager of Equity and Workforce Angela Hendrieth said the city is aware of the public’s troubles and is happy to help.
The workshop offered several booklets and websites homeowners are encouraged to visit including www.foreclosureoptionsteam.com and www.flhardesthithelp.org.