FROM THE FLORIDA CFO ALEX SINK'S OFFICE

Q. What is a Florida Housing Help workshop?
A. FHH workshops were developed by CFO Alex Sink to fight foreclosures in Florida by providing struggling homeowners with resources and information to help them determine their best option for avoiding foreclosure. The workshops provide an opportunity to talk directly to representatives from mortgage companies, financial institutions, HUD, and local assistance organizations as well as experts on a variety of relevant topics including short sales, force-placed coverage and mortgage fraud.

Q. Who should attend a FHH workshop?
A. Anyone who is in the foreclosure process, is facing the possibility of foreclosure or wants to learn more to protect their home from foreclosure.

Q. What do I need to bring with me to a FHH workshop?
A. Homeowners will need to bring copies of the following documents to leave with their lender:
• Two most recent paycheck stubs for all household applicants. • Two most recent checking and savings account monthly statements. • Drivers License or picture ID of applicant(s). • Social Security cards for applicants/co-applicants. • Income tax returns for current year along with W-2 forms. If self employed, proof of quarterly tax payments for the last four quarters and two years signed and dated income tax returns. • Hardship Letter of explanation for any explanation of delinquency of mortgage payments and any gap of employment during the last two years. • Divorce papers, if applicable. • Statements documenting ALL monthly household expenses, i.e., telephone, cable, utilities, etc. • Last mortgage statement / year-end summary. • Most recent correspondence from Mortgage Company. • Current property tax bill and proof of Hazard (Homeowners) Insurance. • It is helpful, but not necessary, for homeowners seeking assistance who have access to the Internet to go to www.annualcreditreport.com and request a free credit report. Please note that signing up for any other service, including a credit score is not necessary. All that is needed is the free credit report.

Q. Will my request for a refinance or a modification be granted at the event?
A. Possibly. If your lender is at the event, it is possible to have your refinance or modification completed at the workshop. If your lender is not at the workshop, HUD counselors will begin the process and work with the lender on your behalf.

Q. Are there any tips or facts I need to know about foreclosure and mortgage fraud prevention?
A. Consumers can visit the FHH Web site to find information about facts and myths of the foreclosure process and what consumers can do to protect themselves. Find our Foreclosure Fact Sheet at www.myfloridacfo.com

Q. Where can I go to find a calendar of FHH workshops around the state?
A. You can go to the Florida Department of Financial Services Web site at www.MyFloridaCFO.com and click on the Florida Housing Help button on the right hand side of the page.