Foreclosures are a rising problem in many areas. A lot of things can cause people to lose their homes.

• Lost jobs
• Medical problems
• Mounting credit cards and other debts
• A mortgage that is too high

The above are the top reasons why foreclosures are happening so often. It’s so important that when you plan to buy a home, you do your best to buy within your means. Today, there’s a credit problem in society where people live well above their means and when faced with a financial crisis have no nest egg to fall back on. A mortgage payment can be staggering and if your family is spending more than 25% of your income on your mortgage, you could be in trouble if you face any financial hiccups.

The best advice: Save money! Invest and save money so that you have at least a few months of mortgage payments (preferably 6) put away for a rainy day.

Foreclosures are a scary word to homeowners. Once you have your name on a mortgage, take measures to be sure you can afford that home and that you have a sound financial plan that enables you to keep it.