The ultimate guide to how to stop a home repossession

avoid scam
Get A Free No-Obligation Offer

I'm going to start with a question...

Have you ever woken up in a cold sweat, worried about losing your home?

You see, it's a nightmare that many face, but few know how to handle.

It's a very real problem.

With the rising cost of living, it's not uncommon to find yourself struggling to keep up with your mortgage.

But what happens when you fall behind?

Is repossession inevitable if you've missed mortgage payments?

Is there anything you can do to stop house repossession?

Will it go to a court hearing?

Do you have to pay legal and court costs?

Are you going to have to sell your property?

I’m Dan Green and in this ultimate guide to stopping house repossession, you'll find out the answers to those questions and learn everything you need to know about how to stop repossession, including practical steps you can take right now.

We'll explore questions like ‘can a repossession be stopped?’, 'what's a suspended possession order?' and ‘if my house is repossessed, do I still owe money?’

You'll also find out ways to avoid repossession of your home and understand what happens if your house is repossessed.

This comprehensive guide is essential for anyone facing financial difficulties and looking to protect their home, so let's take a nice deep breath, make a cuppa, then dive in and uncover the steps you can take to stop house repossession, regain control of your finances, and secure your future.

Ready? Let's gets started...

Chapters:

  • Understanding the fundamentals of the house repossession process

  • The reposession process

  • Stop repossession

  • Advanced strategies for stopping house repossession

  • Practical tips and strategies

  • Future challenges and opportunities

  • Conclusion

  • Key takeaways

  • Frequently asked questions (FAQs) 

  • Glossary

  • Further reading

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Understanding the fundamentals of the house repossession process

What is Sale and Rent Back in the UK?

Home repossession is a legal process initiated by mortgage lenders when homeowners have missed mortgage repayments.

This process allows the lender to take ownership of the property to recover the outstanding debt.

Typically, proceedings begin after three to six months of missed payments, but this can vary depending on the lender's policies and the homeowner's circumstances. 

Repossession serves as a protection for mortgage lenders; a way of them recovering the debt that is owed to them.

However, for homeowners, it represents a significant loss and upheaval.

In the UK, the process is governed by strict legal guidelines to ensure fair treatment, but the impact on the homeowner can still be severe and emotional when the lender repossesses your home.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

The repossession process

What is a Sale and Rent Back Agreement - and How Does it Work?

To better understand the process, here's a very simple and quick run through of the house repossession process:

  1. Missed mortgage payments: Many lenders will wait for up to three months before they send a formal notice, known as a 'default notice'. You can still stop eviction if you take action within 14 days after being notified.

  2. Court proceedings: A court date will be set after the lender has started legal action. The lender will apply to the court for a possession order. This 'possession claim' is the formal legal action that a lender needs in order to regain possession of a property. It's important to remember that the mortgage provider needs a court action to repossess a property.

  3. Possession hearing: A judge decides whether to grant the possession order.

  4. Eviction: If granted, the homeowner is given a date to vacate the property.

Many homeowners believe homes can be repossessed without warning, which is not true.

Mortgage lenders must grant reasonable time for repayment of any shortfall before proceeding with repossession.

Understanding your rights and options can help you to take proactive steps so as to prevent repossession happening.

Here are some key reasons why it's important:

  • Protection of rights: Knowing your rights ensures you can challenge unfair practices and make informed decisions.

  • Financial impact: Repossession significantly affects your credit score, making it difficult to secure loans in the future.

  • Mental health: The stress of facing repossession can take a toll on your mental health. Understanding the process helps you manage this stress better by knowing what to expect. 

Key facts and statistics

A county court in England and Wales is a civil court that handles non-criminal matters, such as debt recovery, and UK Government information states that historically, repossessions by county court bailiffs fell from a high of 9,284 in the first quarter of 2009 to 934 in the third quarter of 2018.

Then, following the termination of repossession proceedings from March to September 2020 where no repossessions took place, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) guidance advised mortgage lenders not to commence or continue possession proceedings until April 2021 (unless there were special circumstances).

As a result, there were only 10 repossessions from April 2020 to March 2021, although this increased after the Covid measures came to an end and hit a peak of 780 in the second quarter of 2022. 

However, according to LPC Law, a firm of solicitors specialising in civil litigation, repossessions of homeowner mortgaged properties increased by more than a third during the first three months of 2024, with almost 900 properties being repossessed.

They say this is more than 35% higher than the last quarter of 2023 and represents a 9% year-on-year growth.

LPC Law state that the overall number of home repossessions still remains low compared with historic norms and the increase they report is primarily attributed to older arrears cases that are working their way through the system as courts continue to deal with Covid-related backlogs.

The consequences of repossession:

  • Credit score damage: Repossession can severely damage your credit score, making it very difficult to get loans in the future.

  • Moving out: Losing your home means finding alternative accommodation, which can be challenging and stressful.

  • Emotional: The whole process can cause significant stress and anxiety, impacting your overall wellbeing.

In the next chapter, I’ll look at stopping a house repossession order, including practical steps and resources that are available to you.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Stop repossession

How Does Property Repossession Work?

To effectively stop house repossession, you need to arm yourself with the right tools and resources.

Here are some essential ones:

Debt advice services:
Organisations like Citizens Advice and StepChange offer free and confidential advice on managing debts and stopping repossession.

Legal assistance:
Solicitors specialising in housing law can give you support and represent you in court if necessary.

Government schemes:
Programmes like the SMI can provide financial help to struggling homeowners. I’ve put a link in the ‘further reading’ section.

Financial assistance:
Budgeting apps, like Plum, can help you keep track of your finances and ensure timely mortgage payments. There’s a link to Plum in the ‘further reading’ section at the end of this article. 

What to do during a house repossession

Stopping house repossession requires taking a systematic approach.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this challenging situation:

  1. Hidden feesAssess your situation
    First, you’ll need to understand the extent of your mortgage arrears. Check your mortgage statements to see how many months of payments you've missed. Mortgage lenders typically initiate proceedings after three to six months of missed payments, but this can vary.

  2. Contact your lender
    Taking the lead and approaching your lender is so important. Don’t bury your head in the sane and wait for them to contact you. As mentioned above, most lenders will wait up to three months after the first missed payment before they take action to reposessess a home, but don't let things go that far. At the first sign of an issue, explain your situation honestly and ask about possible solutions to amend your mortgage agreement. Lenders are often willing to work with homeowners to find a mutually beneficial arrangement and help you to stop house repossession before the process even begins.

  3. Seek professional advice
    Talk to debt advisors and solicitors so that you can fully understand your legal position and look at all available options.

  4. Create a repayment plan
    Work with your lender to create a manageable repayment plan. This could involve spreading the arrears over a longer period or temporarily reducing your monthly payments.

  5. Consider selling your home
    If you’re unable to keep up with mortgage payments, selling your home quickly may be a viable option. Companies that specialise in fast property sales, like Springbok Properties, can help you to sell your property and avoid repossession, and potentially secure some equity. Selling with an estate agent can take months and with a potential reposession looming, a fast sale is what you'll need. You should be aware though that selling your home can affect benefits you might receive, such as Universal Credit. The proceeds from the sale will be considered when assessing your entitlement.

  6. Find out about government support
    There are government schemes designed to help homeowners in financial distress stay in their home. Take a look at the 'further reading' section for more info.

  7. Cut unnecessary expenses
    Try to review your household income and budget, then cut out any non-essential expenses so that you can redirect these funds towards your mortgage. This may require some lifestyle adjustments, but it’s a biggie for stopping house repossession.

  8. Increase your income
    Yes, this one is easier said than done, but try to look for ways to boost your income, whether that’s through additional part-time work, freelancing, or selling unused items. After all, every little bit helps in making up the arrears.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

To make this section a bit easier to understand, here’s a visual representation of the steps you can try to take so as to stop your house being repossessed:

Step

Action

Assess your situation

Check your mortgage statements and bank apps for missed payments

Contact your lender

Proactively open communication and discuss your options so that it doesn't get as far as them getting court action to repossess

Seek professional advice

Get in touch with debt advisors and housing solicitors

Create a repayment plan

Work with your lender to manage your arrears

Consider selling your home

Look into fast property sale options (rather than an estate agent), such as cash sales with Springbok Properties, to find out the realistic price for which you could sell so that you can go into a rental property and have some cash

Explore government support

Find out about any government schemes that are available

Cut out unnecessary expenses

Look at your bank statements and spot where you can reduce any non-essential spending

Increase your income

Try to find additional sources of income to increase your available funds 

Taking these steps can significantly improve your chances of stopping house repossession.

In the next chapter, we’ll look into advanced strategies for more complex financial situations…

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Common pitfalls to avoid

These are the common pitfalls you’ll want to avoid, so that you can increase your chances of stopping repossession:

  • Ignoring the problem
    Trying to avoid it can lead to the repossession processes suddenly happening and an eviction date looming. It might be overwhelming, and hard to admit that there’s a problem, but always communicate with your mortgage lender and ask for help early on so that things don’t get worse.

  • Not seeking help
    There’s free advice available that can help you to explore all available options. Professional advice can provide clarity and direction. I’ve put links in the ‘further reading’ section.

  • Prioritise your mortgage payments
    Treat your mortgage as a top priority and make sure that your payments are made before any other debts or expenses.

  • Re-negotiate your terms
    Don’t be shy about negotiating with your lender. You may be able to secure more favourable terms, such as a temporary payment reduction or a mortgage holiday.

  • Using an estate agent
    Properties on the open market can take months to sell, if they sell at all. If you are going to sell your home, a fast sale company like Springbok Properties can buy quickly for cash, and buy in any condition; things that an estate agent cannot do.

  • Not being informed
    You can keep yourself updated on any changes that are happening in mortgage policies or government support schemes by reading websites dedicated to reporting news about the housing industry. After all, knowledge is power when it comes to preventing repossession. I’ve put some links to useful resources in the ‘further reading’ section at the end of this article.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Advanced strategies for stopping house repossession

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

For homeowners facing more complex financial situations, further action could well be needed in order to stop house repossession.

These strategies often require a thorough understanding of your financial position and proactive engagement. Time to take a look into some advanced concepts:

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies
  1. Mortgage modification
    Mortgage modification involves changing the terms of your loan to make payments more manageable. This could include extending the loan term, reducing the interest rate, or even temporarily deferring your payments. To pursue this, you’ll need to demonstrate to your lender that you’re facing financial hardship but are committed to keeping your home.

  2. Voluntary repossession 
    While it might seem to be counterintuitive, and could perhaps be seen as something of a last resort, voluntary repossession can sometimes be a strategic move. By voluntarily handing your property back to the lender, you might avoid the legal fees and additional stress of a forced repossession. However, this will still impact your credit score, and you may still owe money if the property sells for less than the amount of the outstanding mortgage.

  3. Equity release
    Equity release allows you to access the equity that’s tied up in your home without having to sell it. This can provide you with the funds needed to clear mortgage arrears and stop repossession. However, equity release products can be very complex and may not be suitable for everyone, so it's very important that you seek independent financial advice before choosing this option.

  4. Renting out part of your home
    If your home has extra space, renting out a room can provide you with an additional income to help cover mortgage payments. This can be a practical solution to generate revenue without making significant lifestyle changes. Of course, you’ll need to do lots of checks to give you peace of mind that the person moving in can be trusted to pay their rent on time. You’ll also need to pay to have a legally binding contract written.

  5. Debt consolidation
    You’ve probably seen TV adverts about this. Consolidating your debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate can simplify your repayments and help to reduce your monthly outgoings. However, this strategy requires careful consideration and should be discussed with a financial advisor before you go ahead, so that you can find out if it’s the solution you need.

My advice would be to always research the government schemes that are available and speak with your lender as early as possible so that you can find a mutually beneficial solution.

If it comes to it and you have to look at equity release or even voluntary repossession, weigh up the long-term impact on your credit score and financial future.

Getting expert financial advice is the way forward so that you don’t make an expensive mistake that you’ll later regret.

Case study

I find that learning from examples can give practical insights and provide some inspiration.

Here’s a case study to demonstrate the successful prevention of a repossession:

Situation: Sarah is 36 and she’s a single mother that fell behind on her mortgage payments after losing her job as a cleaner.

Action: She contacted her mortgage lender straight away and explained exactly what had happened, and what the impact was for her. She also provided bank statements to show that she had no savings to use. By having the conversation early on, Sarah negotiated a mortgage term modification that gave her a payment holiday, extended her loan term and reduced her monthly payments.

Result: The new payment plan allowed Sarah to keep her home while she searched for new employment, and things didn't have to be sorted out with a stressful legal process. Her mortgage provider could see she was taking reasonable steps to resolve her situation, so it didn't have to go to a possession hearing in court.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Practical tips and strategies

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

Here are some advanced strategies for you to consider:

  • Prioritise debt repayments
    Always focus on clearing mortgage arrears before other debts. This might involve negotiating with other creditors to temporarily reduce or pause your payments.

  • Use financial hardship schemes
    Many lenders offer hardship schemes for customers that are facing financial difficulties. These can provide temporary relief through payment deferrals or reduced payments.

  • Regular financial reviews
    By doing regular reviews of your financial situation, you’ll be able to identify potential issues early, before they become a big problem. This proactive approach can help you avoid falling into arrears.

  • Use government support
    Take full advantage of government schemes that are designed to help homeowners in financial distress. Take time to research all of the available options and apply for schemes as early as possible.

By implementing these advanced strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of stopping a house repossession, and thus secure your financial future.

Future challenges and opportunities

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

In the future, homeowners may encounter a range of challenges and opportunities concerning house repossession.

As economic conditions fluctuate, the landscape of property ownership could shift dramatically, influencing the rate and nature of repossessions. 

Potential regulatory changes might either tighten or relax the rules around repossession, affecting homeowners' ability to maintain ownership during financial distress.

Technological advancements could also streamline the repossession process or provide new tools for homeowners to manage mortgage payments more effectively. 

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for homeowners to anticipate and navigate the potential pitfalls and opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of house repossession.

Here's a closer look at what might lie ahead:

Challenges:

  1. Tightening lending criteria: In response to economic uncertainties, lenders may opt to tighten their lending criteria, making it harder for potential buyers to secure mortgages. This could lead to a decrease in homeownership rates and an increase in the rental market. Existing homeowners might also find it more challenging to remortgage or secure favourable terms during periods of financial hardship.

  2. Rising interest rates: Interest rate hikes can significantly increase monthly mortgage payments, putting additional strain on homeowners that are already struggling with arrears. It's therefore essential to stay informed about potential rate changes and plan ahead accordingly.

  3. Regulatory changes: Changes in housing and financial regulations can impact the repossession process. Homeowners must stay updated on any legislative changes that could affect their rights and options during repossession proceedings. Websites that provide news about the housing industry are a great resource. I’ve put links in the ‘further reading’ section to great resources.

  4. Economic downturns: Economic recessions can reduce the overall purchasing power of consumers, leading to a decrease in home buying activity. This can exacerbate challenges for homeowners trying to sell their properties during tough economic times.

  5. Job market instability: Unemployment or job market fluctuations can have a direct impact on individuals' ability to meet mortgage obligations. In such scenarios, homeowners may face increased risks of repossession if they cannot maintain their income levels.

  6. Decrease in property values: A decline in property values can leave homeowners with negative equity, where the mortgage owed is more than the property's current value. This situation makes it difficult to refinance or sell the home without incurring losses, potentially leading to increased foreclosure rates.

  7. Changes in consumer confidence: Consumer sentiment regarding the economy can influence home buying and selling decisions. Low confidence can lead to reduced demand for homes, affecting homeowners looking to sell and potentially leading to increased repossession rates due to unsellable properties.

  8. Impact of global events: Events such as pandemics, geopolitical tensions, or international economic crises can drastically affect local real estate markets. These events may lead to tightened lending criteria, changes in interest rates, and shifts in regulatory frameworks, impacting homeowners' ability to maintain property ownership. Each of these factors plays a significant role in the dynamics of the housing market and can influence individual homeowners' situations, making it essential to stay informed and prepared for varying economic climates.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Opportunities
Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies
  1. Enhanced support schemes: Future government initiatives and support schemes could provide more robust safety nets for homeowners. These may include expanded financial help, improved access to legal aid, and increased funding for housing support services.

  2. Financial education and literacy: Increased emphasis on financial education can empower homeowners to manage their finances better and potentially avoid repossession. Online courses can provide knowledge and resources.

  3. Innovative financial support products: The financial industry is continually evolving, with new products designed to help homeowners manage their mortgages more effectively. These could include flexible mortgage terms, income protection insurance, and alternative financing options.

  4. Community and peer support networks: Establishing community-based support groups can provide emotional and practical assistance to homeowners facing repossession. These networks can also facilitate the sharing of useful information and resources among peers.

  5. Technology-driven solutions: Leveraging technology, such as mobile apps and online platforms, can help homeowners monitor their financial health more effectively, receive alerts about potential issues, and access instant advice or support.

  6. Partnerships with non-profits: Forming partnerships with nonprofit organisations can offer additional resources and support to homeowners. These collaborations might include counselling services, financial planning, and direct intervention programs to prevent repossession.

  7. Government-backed refinancing programmes: Introducing or expanding government-backed refinancing programmes can help homeowners renegotiate their mortgage terms under more favourable conditions, potentially preventing the risk of repossession.

  8. Regular policy reviews: Regular reviews and updates of housing and mortgage policies by government agencies can ensure that they remain effective in providing the necessary support to homeowners, adapting to changes in the economic landscape or housing market conditions.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Conclusion

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

Stopping a house repossession can feel like an uphill battle, but with the right knowledge and strategies, it is entirely possible.

Throughout this guide, we've explored the fundamentals of house repossession, from understanding the process to putting in place strategies to prevent it.

By understanding the repossession process, researching all available resources, and seeking professional advice early on, you can protect your home and secure your financial future.

This guide aims to arm you with the knowledge you need to navigate the often complex world of mortgage payments, legal implications, and financial management to avoid losing your home.

We covered the importance of timely communication with your lender to explore alternatives such as loan restructuring or temporary payment reductions before your mortgage arrears get out of hand and feel overwheling.

And we also emphasised the role of comprehensive financial planning and budget management to avoid falling behind on mortgage payments.

By proactively managing your finances and understanding your legal rights and options, you can create a strong defence against repossession, ensuring you retain your property and achieve long-term financial health.

And remember, many lenders will let you know if they plan to evict you and must have a court warrant for eviction. They can't just turn up at your front door and demand you leave.

Key takeaways

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

Here are the key takeaways:

  1. Early intervention is everything: The sooner you act, the better your chances of stopping repossession and losing your home. Communicate with your mortgage lender at the first sign of trouble.

  2. Use all available resources: Take advantage of debt advice services, legal assistance, and government support schemes that are designed to help homeowners in financial distress.

  3. Explore all options: From mortgage modifications to equity release and fast cash sales for close to market value, consider all available strategies to manage your arrears.

  4. Stay informed and be proactive: Regularly look at your financial situation and stay updated on any changes in mortgage policies or government schemes by reading newsletters.

I hope this guide has been helpful to you if you’re facing repossession right now or worry that it might be on your horizon.

I’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions that address specific queries, and I’ve also compiled a list of websites in the ‘further reading’ section, including debt charities, which can provide help and assistance at no cost to you.

Contact your local council about council tax

You can also get in touch with your local council for help if you think your property will soon be repossessed, and talk to them about a potential payment plan for your council tax.

You should also consider contacting your local Citizens Advice Bureau or seeking out other financial advice.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

To help you understand your options and the steps you need to take, I’ve written a list of 15 frequently asked questions.

These cover various aspects of stopping repossession, from legal rights to financial strategies. Each answer is designed to provide clarity and give you actionable advice.

  1. How many months mortgage arrears before repossession?
    Generally, lenders will start to initiate proceedings after three to six months of missed payments. However, this can vary depending on the lender and the specific circumstances of the homeowner. It's so important that you start to communicate with your lender as soon as you start experiencing difficulties so that you can discuss with them potential solutions and avoid reaching the repossession stage.

  2. Can a repossession be stopped?
    Yes, repossession can often be stopped. By negotiating with your lender, seeking professional advice, and using government support schemes, you can find ways to manage your arrears and prevent the loss of your home. Early intervention is key to stopping repossession, so don't delay in asking for help. It could prevent you from having a repossessed property.

  3. How to stop a house repossession?
    To stop a house repossession, follow these steps:
    - Contact your lender: Don’t wait for them to contact you. Open the dialogue with your lender so that you can discuss your situation and discuss payment plans
    - Seek professional advice: Consult debt advisors and solicitors who specialise in this area of law.
    - Use government schemes: Find out about the Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) by clicking the link in the ‘further reading’ section
    - Create a budget: Cut out unnecessary expenses and prioritise your mortgage payments.
    - Increase income: Consider part-time work, selling unneeded items, or renting out a room to boost your income

  4. What happens if your house is repossessed in the UK?
    If your house is repossessed, the lender takes possession of the property and sells it to recover the outstanding mortgage debt. The process involves:
    - A court hearing where a judge decides whether or not to grant a possession order.
    - An eviction notice if the possession order is granted, giving you a date by which you need to leave the property.
    - The sale of the property, often at auction, to repay the debt. Any shortfall between the sale price and the mortgage balance remains your responsibility.

  5. If my house is repossessed, do I still owe money?
    If the sale of your repossessed house does not cover the entire mortgage debt, then you may still owe the remaining balance. This shortfall is known as a deficiency balance, and the lender can chase you for this amount. Not many people realise that repossession does not necessarily eliminate your debt entirely.

  6. Where are house repossessions recorded?
    House repossessions are recorded in public records, including the court system and credit reporting agencies. This information can significantly impact your credit rating score and remain on your credit report for up to six years, affecting your ability to obtain loans or credit cards in the future.

  7. How long does it take to repossess a house?
    The repossession process can vary in duration, typically taking between several months to over a year. Factors influencing the timeline are:
    - The lender’s policies and procedures
    - The homeowner’s response and engagement with the process
    - Court schedules and decisions. During this time, homeowners have opportunities to seek legal advice and negotiate with their lender

  8. How to avoid repossession of your home?
    To avoid repossession, take proactive measures such as:
    - Maintain open communication: Regularly update your lender on your financial situation
    - Seek advice early: Speak with debt advisors and housing solicitors as soon as you have financial issues
    - Budgeting and financial planning: Adjust your budget to prioritise mortgage payments
    - Explore all options: Find out about government schemes, mortgage modifications, and financial assistance programmes

  9. What is voluntary repossession?
    Voluntary repossession involves willingly handing over your property to the lender when you can no longer afford the mortgage. This option can sometimes prevent the added costs and stress of a forced repossession. However, it still negatively impacts your credit score, and you may be responsible for any shortfall if the property sells for less than the outstanding mortgage, so it is a 'last resort' approach.

  10. Life after house repossession – what can I expect?
    Life after repossession can be challenging, but it is manageable with the right approach. Here’s what to expect:
    - Credit impact: Repossession significantly damages your credit score, making it harder to secure loans or credit
    - Financial recovery: Focus on rebuilding your credit by paying bills on time and managing your debts responsibly
    - Housing options: Consider renting or looking at alternative living arrangements.
    - Support and advice: Seek ongoing financial advice to stabilise your situation and prevent future issues.

  11. What will happen to my property if it is repossessed?
    Repossessed properties are usually sold through auction houses to the highest bidder. This might be a property investor that sells it on for a profit, or lets it out.

  12. If things do go to court, will I have to pay court costs?
    Unfortunetly, yes. Court fees can range from around £400 for a County Court possession claim to over £500 for a High Court possession claim, then there could be additional fees for Warrants of Possession, as well as bailiff fees and the lender's legal costs that are all added to the mortgage debt.

  13. When will the lender start court action?
    A mortgage lender will typically start court action to repossess a property after a homeowner has fallen behind on their mortgage payments; usually after three to six months of missed payments. However, court action is considered to be a last resort and lenders are legally going to explore alternative solutions before starting legal proceedings. As ever, the earlier you take action, the better. If things do go that far, a court date will be set after the lender has started legal proceedings, and this is usually after they've sent warning letters.

  14. Will I have legal representatives in court?
    The Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS) can give free legal advice to stop repossession, and provide representation at court hearings. There's a link in the 'further reading' section below.

  15. Can I make a complaint about my lender?
    If you feel you've been treated unfairly by your lender duing the repossession process, and that they haven't done all they can to assist you, the Financial Ombudsman can help to resolve any complaints, and investigate if the lender has acted fairly. You can find a link in the 'further reading' section below.

Get Your Free Offer Now

A free and no-obligation cash offer for your house

Glossary

This subject can get a little complicated, so here's a glossary section to help explain some of the terms used around reposession.

Term

Meaning

Eviction date

This is determined by a court order after the lender has started the formal legal process.

Missed payments

If you miss your monthly mortgage payments, your lender can start legal proceedings to repossess your home. This process usually begins after three or more missed payments, although it's not a guarantee of repossession.

Mortgage arrears

The term 'mortgage arrears' means being behind on your mortgage. You can think of it as the overdue payment. Mortgage arrears can affect your credit score.

Mortgage lender

A mortgage lender is the bank or building society that has provided you with a mortgage for the purchase of a property.

Mortgage term

This is the length of time to pay off a mortgage based on regular monthly payments. A mortgage term couild be 20 or 25 years but might have to be renegotiated if you need a payment holiday.

Possession order

A court order that requires the homeowner to leave the property. A possession order is typically issued by the court after a mortgage lender has attempted to communicate and then repossess a property. There are two types of possession orders; outright possession orders and suspended possession orders.

Outright possession order and suspended possession order

An outright possession order grants the lender legal ownership of a property on a specific date (usually 28 days after a court hearing), whereas a suspended possession order allows the homeowner to stay in the property if they agree to a payment plan for arrears owed.

Possession hearing

This is a court hearing where a judge will decide if a lender can take possession of a property due to non-payment of a mortgage. You must attend the possession hearing to avoid being at higher risk of losing your home.

Repayment plan

This is an agreement between you and the lender to help you catch-up with missed payments.

Can you trust 'we buy any house' companies

Further reading

For more information and resources on stopping house repossession, here are some UK-based websites.

These resources can provide further guidance and support as you work to stop repossession and manage your finances effectively.

Name

Description

Link

Citizens Advice

Free advice on debt and repossession

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/

StepChange

Debt charity offering advice and support

https://www.stepchange.org/

Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) 

Government programme to help struggling homeowners

https://www.gov.uk/support-for-mortgage-interest

Shelter

Housing and homelessness charity providing legal support

https://www.shelter.org.uk/

Money Advice Service

Free and impartial money advice

https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/

Money Advice Trust 

A charity helping people to tackle their debts

https://moneyadvicetrust.org/

Plum

A smart money app to help with budgeting

https://withplum.com/

National Debtline

Free debt advice and resources

https://www.nationaldebtline.org/

Homeowners Alliance

Advice on buying, selling and owning a home, as well as insurance costs and policy types

https://hoa.org.uk/

Mortgage Solutions

Online magazine dedicated to mortgage news

https://www.mortgagesolutions.co.uk/

Yahoo Finance 

Financial news with stories for homeowners

https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/

Financial Ombudsman Service

An organisation that's free for consumers and investigates complaints about mortgage lenders

https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/businesses/complaints-deal/mortgages

Housing Loss Preventation Advice Service (HLPAS)

A free service for anyone at risk of losing their home to get legal info and representation in court.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/housing-loss-prevention-advice-service-hlpas

Springbok Properties

Fast cash sales for any property with offers close to market value

https://springbokproperties.co.uk/

CASH OFFER FREE VALUATION <
clear