Facing foreclosure?
There is now a toll-free number (866-946-7432) offering information and counseling to those with mortgage problems. It is operated by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA). Last week the state announced two new programs: one to help families with adjustable rate mortgages who need a lower-interest fixed rate mortgage, and another program to assist people with delinquent mortgages at risk of losing their home. Both programs are available to those with household incomes at or below $72,250, with a home price no greater than $216,750.

Foreclosure Assistance Links
From the State Bar of Michigan

Homeless Assistance Recovery Program (HARP) (Questions and Answers)
A program from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority that administers the Section 8 Voucher Program.

Housing Bureau for Seniors
Works throughout Washtenaw County to enable and assist older adults with seeking and maintaining appropriate and affordable living arrangements.
Terry Allon, Elderly Foreclosure Prevention Coordinator
2401 Plymouth Road, Suite C
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Telephone: 734-998-9341
Email: tavny@med.umich.edu

Harriet Bakalar
Elderly Eviction Prevention Coordinator
Telephone: 734-998-9339
Email: hbakalar@umich.edu

Justice Department Settles Disability Rights Case With National Provider of Retirement Housing
Announcement of settlement agreement with the owners of Phoenix Village Apartments in Fort Smith, Arkansas. They had refused to rent apartments to families with children. The defendants will pay up to $165,000 to compensate the victims of discrimination and $20,000 in civil penalties to the United States. Note that Michigan is one of the states involved.

Michigan Housing Locator (Michigan State Housing Development Authority)
To find affordable rental housing.

Michigan State Housing Development Authority
Provides financial and technical assistance to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing.

Neighborhood Service Organization
A private non-profit human service agency.

New Law Regarding Principal Residence Exemption (April 17, 2008)
Governor Granholm recently signed a bill into law that significantly changes the way the Principal Residence Exemption, also known as the homestead exemption, applies to Michigan property owners.

South Oakland Shelter
Dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness.

Tenants and Landlords - A Practical Guide (MSU - Detroit College of Law)
A booklet designed to inform tenants and landlords about their rights and responsibilities in rental relationships.

United Community Housing Coalition
A non profit that focuses on community improvement and also offers free legal services to Detroit residents facing housing issues.

Unlawful Eviction in Michigan
In Michigan, a landlord is precluded from using self-help to evict a tenant. The landlord must use the court system and may not harass or try to force the tenant to move out by using violence or threat of violence.

A Reverse Mortgage Solution (Mortgage Now, Inc. - John Markoul)
In today's adverse financial climate many seniors find themselves either unable to comfortably meet their mortgage payments and or need additional income to meet their obligations. Selling your home in a declining real estate market may not be a wise option. Tapping the equity in your home through a reverse mortgage is worth considering.

Reverse Mortgage (Wells Fargo - Tim Thomas)
A quick Q&A guide on how to optimize retirement cash flow without selling your home.

Leavitt v. City of Novi (State of Michigan Court of Appeals - 11/18/08)
Appeal challenging judgment rejecting challenges to City of Novi's denial of request for a principal residence homestead exemption.

Money Back in Michigan 2008 (Michigan League for Human Services)
An outreach effort that promotes awareness of various federal and state tax credits and deductions available to low and moderate-income households. This packet is designed to assist organizations that serve low income individuals and families by providing timely information about credits for which they may qualify. It includes flyers that can be distributed or displayed in local offices, libraries, community centers, and retail businesses.