If you are mired in a financial mess and foreclosure seems inevitable, you may have options that you haven't even considered yet. Before you give up on seeking a solution and agree to surrender your property, make sure you have explored every possibility available for stopping foreclosure. If you haven't taken the opportunity to talk to your lender, that should definitely be the first step of any plan for stopping foreclosure. Although many homeowners assume that their lenders will be unsympathetic and unwilling to compromise on missed payments, the current economic situation has convinced many banks to increase their flexibility and work together with homeowners to develop mutually amenable solutions. Contact a third-party organization to get insight and objective advice that pertains to your unique situation. Local community groups often offer free consultations with foreclosure prevention counselors to homeowners in crisis. Be wary of scam artists who are looking to make a profit off of other people's misery. Unfortunately, the recent economic downturn has created a cottage industry of fly-b-night foreclosure prevention specialists, few of whom have the expertise to help troubled homeowners. If you choose to contact a counselor or advisory, make sure that they have the proper credentials and a proven track record of success.