Who knew a bit of research on the property assessor website could save a home? Suzie, senior housing counselor at Clinch-Powell, recently helped a client stay in her home and pay off a chunk of debt to avoid foreclosure and costly legal fees by locating a forgotten piece of land in her name.

In late September, we received a call from a woman urgently looking for assistance for her 87-year-old mother who owed $17k on her mortgage by October 10. Foreclosure was looming, and attorney fees for the process would be significant. After a house call on September 25 to get all the paperwork in order, Suzie searched the property assessor’s website for home data and value. She found that the client had another property adjacent to hers – an empty lot.

After learning she didn’t have any outstanding obligations or attachment to the property, Suzie asked her if she wanted to sell it. She didn’t think anybody would be interested in a lot that’s “all grown up,” but she gave us permission to contact a realtor to explore this option. It was listed the next day for $22,500 and sold in under 24 hours!

In record turnaround time, the sale was finalized on October 2. The amount owed was paid in full the next day, AND she was able to pocket some extra money for her emergency fund! Suzie is still working with her on tax relief, LIHEAP utilities assistance, and Clinch-Powell’s home repair program, but the urgent need was met, and she can rest easy knowing her home isn’t going anywhere. Thanks to Lisa McBride with Clinch Mountain Realty, and to Lakeway Title Company for working with us!

This may have been a unique answer for this particular client, but CP counselors are constantly getting creative with solutions to keep clients in their homes or help them find affordable, attainable housing. Contact us today if you have a housing hurdle of your own because Housing Can’t Wait!