Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsIf your home is worth less than the amount needed to pay off your mortgage, you have negative equity (often called being “underwater”). The gap alone does not require you to sell, refinance, or stop paying. First verify the actual payoff and likely sale proceeds, then separate an equity problem from a payment problem.
If you can afford the payment and do not need to move, keeping the loan and waiting may be reasonable. If a payment is difficult or a default is possible, contact your mortgage servicer immediately and request a HUD-approved housing counselor. The available solution depends on your loan, income, liens, state law, and the lender or investor that owns the loan.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Start by measuring the real shortfall
An online estimate is not the same as cash you would receive from a sale. Work out three separate figures:
Recommended Free Tools
- Mortgage payoff amount: request a current payoff statement from the servicer. It can differ from the balance shown on a monthly statement because of accrued interest, fees, and a payoff date.
- Other liens: identify every home-equity loan, second mortgage, judgment lien, or other claim that would have to be paid from sale proceeds.
- Estimated net proceeds: use realistic comparable sales and subtract commissions, transfer taxes, attorney or closing charges, repairs, and other selling costs.
For example, a market estimate of $300,000 does not establish that you are $20,000 underwater if the first-mortgage payoff is $285,000. After a second lien and selling costs, the amount needed to close could be much higher. Conversely, a negotiated payoff or a different sale price can change the result. Ask the servicer and a qualified real-estate professional for figures in writing.
#1 Best Overall
- Compact & Portable Design: This Small Excel, Word, PowerPoint, & Windows Cheat Sheet Mouse Pad measures 11.8" x 9.8", offering a portable mouse pad. Its compact size fits in bags or laptop cases, suitable for professionals, students, or travelers.
- Multi-Software Shortcut Guide: Featuring essential shortcut keys for Excel, Word, PowerPoint, & Windows, this small mouse pad provides a quick reference for frequently used shortcuts, offering a reference designed to support workflow efficiency
- Smooth & Precise Surface: The finely-textured surface ensures precise mouse control, allowing for smooth and accurate movement during work or gaming sessions.
- Durable & Non-Slip Design: This Multi-Software Shortcut Mouse Pad features stitched edges to reduce fraying. The non-slip rubber base helps keep it securely in place, and the water-resistant fabric allows for easier maintenance.
- Clear Print Quality: Displays high-resolution printing intended to remain legible through regular use and cleaning
Decide whether the problem is equity, payment stress, or both
When payments are affordable
Negative equity by itself is not a delinquency and does not force a sale. If you can keep making payments, expect to stay for several years, and have no urgent move, you can keep the existing loan while the balance amortizes and the market changes. No one can reliably forecast your home’s future value, so base the decision on affordability, expected time in the home, maintenance needs, and local market uncertainty rather than a promised price rebound.
When a payment may be missed
Payment risk requires prompt action even if you are not yet behind. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) advises contacting the servicer right away and requesting a mortgage-assistance review. The servicer should assess an application and tell you which options are available for that particular loan. Do not wait for a foreclosure notice before asking for help.
When foreclosure papers have arrived
A HUD-approved counselor can help with budgeting, documents, and communication with the servicer at little or no cost. CFPB lists the HOPE Hotline at 888-995-HOPE (4673). If a lawsuit, summons, sale notice, or other legal paper has been served, consult a foreclosure or consumer-law attorney promptly; deadlines are controlled by state procedure.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #2
- [MULTIFUNCTIONAL]You'll get 2 pieces computer monitor memo boards that you can stick on the left and right edges of your monitor, and they're the perfect office desk organizers and accessories. Computer monitor side panels desktop organizer are suitable for home work or office,bringing convenience. Desktop memo is used to organize meeting memos, important messages, business cards, planning notes.Paste on the message board to keep track of important things and to-do items to prevent forgetting.
- [🌟HIGHLY QUALITY] The material of computer screen side note holder is transparent acrylic. Durable, simple, stylish, light weight, easy to use, not easy to fall off or break. This cute office supplies for women desk can be used for a long time. This computer desk accessories is waterproof and dirt resistance, and look simple and stylish. The transparent acrylic sticky note holder as cubicle accessories is easy to notice the context of your sticky notes.
- [📋Easy to use] Office must haves cool office gadgets for desk ready to tear, easy to install and remove, not easy to leave traces. You only need to peel off the protective film on the surface of the computer side board memo, wipe off the dust on the edge of the computer monitor, and then stick the desk essentials for women office on the right or left side of the tape, and you're done. A perfect gift for your colleagues, friends or classmates and family members or relatives
- [🏢MULTI-SCENE USE] This desk supplies computer memo board can be applied to home and office, clear your office decor for women, suitable for most computer monitors, screens and cabinets, you can put it where you think, this cute office decor serve as a reminder. Stick on the computer side. It’s a good office gadgets can remind work improve office productivity. Pasted cabinets, dressers, refrigerators, walls, etc as cubicle accessories. To make life more orderly.
- [💌NOTE] The adhesive force of the computer sticky note holder is very strong. It can not be directly pasted on the computer screen. It should pasted on the black edge of the screen. Narrow edge not recommended!!! If you are not satisfied with your purchase, or if the product is damaged or broken in transit, please let us know immediately. We will promptly solve your problem.
Prepare for the servicer conversation
A complete package makes it easier for the servicer to evaluate loss-mitigation options. Gather:
- A short explanation of why payment is difficult and whether the hardship is temporary or lasting.
- Recent income records, benefit statements, bank information, monthly expenses, and a list of assets.
- The current mortgage statement, payoff request, property-tax and insurance information, and details of every other lien.
- A realistic budget showing what monthly payment you can sustain.
Ask these questions and request written answers:
- Who owns or guarantees the loan, and which assistance programs apply?
- What documents and deadlines apply to the application?
- Will an option change the interest rate, term, principal, payment, or amount deferred?
- How will unpaid amounts be repaid, and will interest or fees continue to accrue?
- Will any deficiency remain after a sale, deed transfer, or foreclosure?
- How could the arrangement affect credit reporting, occupancy, relocation, and federal or state taxes?
Compare the available paths
Compare alternatives by the outcome that matters: whether you can stay, how much payment relief is needed, the total debt after the change, required approvals, and whether you receive a written release from any deficiency.
| Path | How it works | Principal tradeoffs and questions |
|---|---|---|
| Keep paying and wait | The current loan remains in place while you stay in the home. | Consider how long you expect to remain, payment affordability, maintenance, market uncertainty, and whether a future sale would cover payoff and costs. Negative equity alone does not require a sale. |
| Refinance | A new mortgage pays off the old one, potentially with a lower rate, longer term, or both. | You must qualify and pay closing costs. Ask lenders whether the specific program accepts your loan-to-value ratio, occupancy, income, and payment history; ordinary refinancing is not guaranteed for an underwater loan. |
| Loan modification | The servicer changes one or more loan terms. A modification may extend the term, reduce the rate, or forbear or reduce principal. | Availability and terms depend on the servicer and loan owner. Compare the new payment, total amount owed, term, fees, and any deferred or non-interest-bearing balance. |
| Repayment plan | Overdue amounts are spread over time while you resume regular payments. | The temporary payment can be higher. Obtain the schedule in writing and confirm that the amount fits your budget. |
| Forbearance | Payments are temporarily paused or reduced during a short-term hardship. | Forbearance is not forgiveness. Before accepting, get the exit plan: whether missed amounts are due in a lump sum, added to the balance, or handled another way. |
| Short sale | With servicer approval, the home is sold for less than the mortgage balance. | You leave the home. Obtain approval from every relevant mortgage servicer, clarify who pays transaction costs, and secure a written deficiency waiver. Some states permit collection of a remaining deficiency, and canceled debt can raise tax issues. |
| Deed-in-lieu of foreclosure | You voluntarily transfer ownership to the lender instead of going through foreclosure. | You leave the home. The agreement should state whether it resolves the entire debt and all liens, whether a deficiency is waived, and whether relocation assistance is available. A tax consequence may still be possible. |
| Foreclosure | The lender uses a legal process to enforce its security interest after default. | You can lose the home and may face separate deficiency and tax questions. Contact a counselor early and obtain legal help when proceedings or court papers are active. |
Understand the options that involve leaving the home
Short sale
A short sale is still a sale: CFPB describes it as an alternative to foreclosure, but “because it is a sale, you will have to leave your home.” The servicer must approve the transaction, and a second-mortgage or other lienholder may also have to approve it. Approval to sell does not automatically prove that the remaining debt is forgiven.
Rank #3
- Stay Organized with Ease: Our To Do List Notepad provides multiple sections with plenty of space to jot down all of your important tasks.A versatile office supply perfect for daily task management, helping you keep track of everything that needs to be done and prioritize effectively.
- Achieve Your Productivity Goals: Begin each day on a positive note, reminding you of your potential, strength, and the significance of staying focused on your goals. Our Daily Checklist Notepad is the ultimate tool to streamline your daily planning and elevate your productivity. With a clear and concise overview of your tasks, you can effortlessly prioritize what truly matters and make consistent strides towards achieving your goals.
- Reliable and Stylish: Our to do list planner combines functionality with durability. With a transparent PP cover, the inner pages are well-protected from dirt and wear. Additionally, the back cover is crafted with thick paperboard, offering a stable surface for your writing needs. Each notepad includes 52 pages of high-quality, 100gsm paper, which is thick and non-bleeding, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable writing experience.
- Versatile Use: This daily checklist notepad, suitable for teacher supplies and a wide range of applications, proves invaluable in various settings including work, school, and home. Whether you need to organize your daily tasks, plan a project, or create a grocery list, this notepad serves as the ideal tool. Its compact size ensures easy portability, allowing you to conveniently carry it with you throughout your day.
- Perfect Present for Anyone: Our Daily To-Do List Notepad is the perfect present for those who value organization and productivity. With its stylish design and versatility, this office desk accessory is also a practical addition to school supplies. Suitable for students, professionals, and homemakers alike, it helps keep tasks and priorities in check effortlessly.
Before closing, insist on a settlement or approval letter that states the sale proceeds accepted, who pays each cost, and whether the lender waives collection of any deficiency. Keep the final documents. State law can permit a creditor to pursue a deficiency unless it is waived, and the rules differ by loan type and jurisdiction.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Deed-in-lieu
With a deed-in-lieu, you transfer the property voluntarily. The written agreement should identify every debt being resolved, release you from further liability where promised, address liens, and state any move-out date or relocation payment. Do not sign a deed or “assumption” document presented by an unsolicited company without independent legal advice.
Know what a modification or forbearance really changes
CFPB defines a mortgage loan modification as “a change in your loan terms.” A lower monthly payment can result from a lower rate, a longer term, principal reduction, or a principal amount moved to the end of the loan. A lower payment can therefore increase the time you pay or the total interest. Compare the original and proposed amortization, all fees, and the treatment of any deferred balance.
Rank #4
- 【Adjustable & Ergonomic】：This laptop stand can be adjusted to a comfortable height and angle according to your actual needs, letting you fix posture and reduce your neck fatigue, back pain and eye strain. Very comfortable for working in home, office and outdoor.
- 【Sturdy & Protective】 ：Made of sturdy metal, it can support up to 17.6 lbs (8kg) weight on top; With 2 rubber mats on the hook and anti-skid silicone pads on top & bottom, it can secure your laptop in place and maximum protect your device from scratches and sliding. Moreover, smooth edges will never hurt your hands.
- 【Heat Dissipation】 ：The top of the laptop stand is designed with multiple ventilation holes. The open design offers greater ventilation and more airflow to cool your laptop during operation other than it just lays flat on the table.
- 【Portable & Foldable】：The foldable design allows you to easily slip it in your backpack. Ideal for people who travel for business a lot.
- 【Broad Compatibility】：Our desktop book stand is compatible with all laptops from 10-15.6 inches, such as MacBook Air/ Pro, Google Pixelbook, Dell XPS, HP, ASUS, Lenovo ThinkPad, Acer, Chromebook and Microsoft Surface, etc.Be your ideal companion in Home, Office & Outdoor.
Forbearance postpones or reduces payments for a specified period. It does not erase them. Before entering, ask exactly when the regular payment resumes, whether a lump-sum payment will be demanded, how the missed amount will be reported, and what happens if the hardship lasts longer than expected. Get the agreement before relying on a verbal promise.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Tax and legal issues require current, fact-specific advice
Canceled mortgage debt
Internal Revenue Service Publication 4681 states that canceled debt is generally included in income unless an exclusion or exception applies. Bankruptcy and insolvency are important possibilities. For insolvency, the comparison is made immediately before cancellation: total liabilities are measured against the fair-market value of all assets.
Why 2026 timing matters
IRS guidance describes qualified principal-residence indebtedness as excludable for discharges before January 1, 2026, and a transition for a written agreement entered into before January 1, 2026. That does not create a blanket tax-free rule for a discharge occurring in 2026 or later. A short sale, modification, deed-in-lieu, or foreclosure can have different tax results depending on the dates, documents, loan use, insolvency, bankruptcy, and state rules. Re-check current IRS guidance and consult a tax professional before assuming an exclusion.
Best Value
- Twin-Ball Design : Hiacry gel pen features a double ball conical tip that reduces writing resistance and provides a stable and smooth writing experience. 0.7mm quick drying black ink ensures no jumping, leakage or seepage.
- Quick-Dry Long Lasting Ink：0.7mm black ink can slide effortlessly, dry immediately, & is not easily dirty. It has a high-capacity reservoir (up to 1300 meters), which is very suitable for left-handed & right-handed users.
- Sleek Design for Journaling & Planning: Engineered with a low center of gravity and precision tip for steady ink flow, these journaling pens excel at note-taking, sketching, planning, and more. They combine stylish pens with top-tier performance.
- Rolling Ball Design：The pocket clip with roll ball design can be easily attached to notebook pockets and binders, in addition, the fidget on the pen clip is also a small toy for your daily thinking to relieve stress.
- Comfortable Non-Slip Grip：The ergonomic pen barrel has a soft rubberized coating for a comfortable, non-slip grip, so you won't get fatigued even after long hours of writing.
Do not confuse the often-quoted home-sale gain exclusion with canceled-debt relief. IRS materials cite thresholds of $250,000 for many qualifying single taxpayers and $500,000 for many qualifying married couples filing jointly. Those figures concern qualifying gain on a home sale, not automatic exclusion of forgiven mortgage debt.
Deficiency and state law
Whether a lender can pursue a deficiency depends on state law, the foreclosure method, the loan documents, lien priority, and the written settlement. Ask an attorney to review any waiver, release, or deed-in-lieu agreement. Keep copies of payoff statements, approvals, closing disclosures, and tax forms.
Spot mortgage-relief scams
CFPB warns against companies that:
- Demand an upfront fee before providing a service.
- Guarantee a modification, short sale, or foreclosure result.
- Tell you to stop paying your servicer or stop answering its calls.
- Ask you to sign over title or transfer ownership before explaining the agreement.
- Tell you to send mortgage payments to a third party instead of the servicer.
Use your servicer or a HUD-approved counselor for initial help. Legitimate counseling can assist with budgeting, paperwork, and option comparisons without requiring a paid mortgage-relief company.
A practical decision sequence
- Request the payoff and lien information. Include all mortgages and estimate selling costs.
- Protect payment status. If a payment may be missed, call the servicer now and document the representative, date, and reference number.
- Submit a complete assistance package. Explain the hardship, provide financial records, and meet stated deadlines.
- Get independent help. Contact a HUD-approved counselor; obtain legal advice for active foreclosure, a deficiency dispute, or a proposed deed transfer; obtain tax advice for canceled debt.
- Compare written outcomes. Evaluate stay-versus-leave, payment and total debt, approvals, deficiency release, credit and relocation effects, and tax consequences.
- Keep a permanent file. Save applications, agreements, payment histories, sale approvals, releases, closing documents, and IRS forms.
This is general U.S. information, not a determination of eligibility, legal liability, or tax liability. The right path depends on your state, payment status, loan owner and type, other liens, sale estimate, and whether you want to remain in the home.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
