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One of the most valuable aspects of NOAH’s Foreclosure Prevention Program is that all services are provided for free, in both English and Spanish. In this interview, we explore how the team works tirelessly to provide support to homeowners through financial counseling, education, and advocacy with lenders. Carolina Suárez, Senior Housing Counselor at NOAH, explains that counseling is primarily offered through Zoom or by phone, which allows greater flexibility for clients. “Some people prefer phone meetings, while others prefer to come in person, and we’re always here to adapt to their needs,” she adds.
The team also has a translation service that offers support in other languages through telephone interpreters, although most of the material is available in English and Spanish.
During the interview, Carolina shared a touching experience from her work in the Foreclosure Prevention Program. “I had a client who was on the verge of losing her home. When she first came to us, her loan was over a year behind, and she was facing multiple hardships at once. An illness had temporarily kept her from working, and her expenses rose when her roommate moved out. She spent sleepless nights worrying about losing her home. We worked together for over a year, reviewing her budget, applying for a loan modification, and exploring ways to manage her finances better. Despite the challenges, she increased her income by working extra hours and taking on side jobs. After several months of negotiating with the lender, we successfully modified her loan, extending the terms and lowering her monthly payments, bringing the loan back into good standing. Now, she can sleep peacefully, knowing her home is safe.
Such stories are common at NOAH. The team strives to provide solutions even in the most complex cases, offering not only financial advice but also essential emotional support. “It’s rewarding to see the impact we have on people’s lives, especially when we manage to prevent them from losing their homes,” reflects Carolina.
NOAH’s program has become an essential tool for many homeowners in Massachusetts facing difficulties maintaining their homes. Designed to assist consumers at imminent risk of losing their homes, it offers a range of accessible and personalized solutions for each financial situation.
Carolina, who is originally from the Dominican Republic, is a key figure in NOAH’s program. As a Senior Housing Counselor, her role involves conducting classes for first-time home buyers and providing financial counseling to those seeking to improve their financial situation, whether through purchasing a home or modifying a mortgage loan.
“The most important thing is to educate homeowners about their options and help them make informed decisions,” says Carolina. NOAH has HUD-approved counselors who work individually with each client, developing action plans based on each person’s unique needs. These plans can include everything from budget creation to negotiating loan modifications with lenders.
“What stops people the most is the lack of information,” says Carolina. “With the education and counseling we provide; we remove those barriers and give them the tools they need to become homeowners.”
One of the most powerful elements of NOAH’s work in the Foreclosure Prevention Program is the bond created between counselors and clients. Carolina recounts how many of her clients have expressed gratitude for the constant support throughout the process, even during the toughest times.
“It’s not just about the services we offer, but the human touch we provide. Clients feel that we are always there for them, and that makes a big difference,” comments Carolina. This personalized approach has allowed NOAH to build a strong reputation in the community, changing lives and helping people achieve the financial and emotional stability they need.
Learn more about the connection between financial well-being and mental health and why it is important.
NOAH’s Foreclosure Prevention Program is an indispensable resource for homeowners in Massachusetts facing difficulties. Through personalized counseling, financial education, and a human-centered approach, NOAH’s team is making a difference in many lives. Whether needing help to avoid foreclosure or in the process of buying their first home, NOAH is there to support them.
If you are facing difficulties maintaining your home or need financial counseling, do not hesitate to contact NOAH for free, personalized assistance.