Debt and foreclosure can be one of the most frightening and disruptive events you will ever face. Few situations in life are as stressful and humiliating. Your future is suddenly fraught with uncertainty and upheaval. Your relationships with family and friends can appear strained. If you're like most, you may not know where to turn or who to trust. Much will depend on your ability to stay calm and learn about your options.

Learn about the foreclosure process. Know the difference between judicial and non-judicial foreclosure. Learn which foreclosure process governs in your state. Learn about default, notice of default and election to sell. Learn about reinstatement, partial repayment and the trustee sale.

Learn the how to best deal with your lender. Learn whom you should talk to at the lenders office and the best time to contact them. Learn how to conduct yourself with the lender to maximize your position. Learn about the workout process and what to realistically expect in the negotiation process.

Learn the vocabulary of foreclosure law and find out about important resources that might help you manage the process. Look up the foreclosure rules in your state.