When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Melanie, Vancouver BC Canada — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:08:38 GMT

Good Lord! Where is human compassion in all of this? Does GREED HAVE TO BE the ENDALL BE ALL? When do we stand up as human beings and declare this "selling off of Live, Limb and Property" for the BANKS gain is over! I just want to know how any human being CAN look another in the eye and SAY "YOU DON'T COUNT"...WE DON'T CARE!!
I can't bear that this loving planet has NO Love for anything but MONEY! TAKE A STAND! ONE WORLD< ONE RACE!!!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mentone-Girl, Mentone CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:08:39 GMT

I've never had the opportunity to buy a house but I hope I never have to go through an eviction, it must be very painful. My heart goes out to some, but those who were overcome by greed, a hard bitter lesson was learned.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

alice carney — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:15:57 GMT

The man he was evicting had lived their ten years with his wife and three children.

Correct: had lived there ten years

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Angie R, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:20:56 GMT

Somebody please answer this question for me......

In the case of a legitimate hardship, WHY CAN'T OUR GOVERNMENT DO ANYTHING? Stepping in to put payments on hold for a predetermined amount of time or accepting payment in the amount the family CAN afford for a temporary period, or do anything that can be done to help a hardworking family keep their home would be helpful.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Trina, Norfolk VA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:28:05 GMT

it breaks my heart to read about this. Especially since I know that very few of these people are deadbeats, they are hardworking people qwho have fallen prey to the economy, many sdont have family nearby and no where to turn. I know b/c I have been there, after a serious illness I couldnt work for nearly a year, but my landlord ( a large corporation) did not tak t that into account when my rent wasnt paid on time and I received an eviction notice, had it not been for my children living nearby I would have been out on the street. In todays economy, the lanlords need to find a way to work with the people who are trying so desperately to stay in their homes, in the long run, the landlords would come out ahead, as their tenants would remain loyal and take much better care of the proprty whwen they know someone is willing to help them out of a desperate situation.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Gail.....Mo — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:30:15 GMT

My heart breaks for these families. While big business gets all the breaks the families are being broken and torn apart.How sad....this is NOT THE AMERICAN DREAM!!!!!!! Just yesterday I heard our President ask how much was gasoline...rather scary.I pray that these families find comfort and can stay together. This can happen to any of us so called use to be middle class. Keep in mind what happen to KATRINA.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Wishing them strength, OK — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:31:24 GMT

I remember this happening when I was about 8. My parents told me to pack what I could because in a few days we would have to leave. I didn't understand and it was really hard for so long afterwards. We moved constantly for 3 years before my aunt took us in and helped us get on our feet. I found later that my dad had been laid off and my parents didn't want us kids to worry because they thought he would find another job, but he didn't in time and everything fell apart around us. I feel for so many of these people and the kids, so sad.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Kenneth, Richmond, VA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:36:46 GMT

Wow, this has to be one the the more heartbreaking stories. To loose your home has to be very devastating. The Deputy Sheriff's have a thankless job, and I do not envy them one bit. I could not do what they do, not at all. I would have tears streaming down my face right along with the (former) homeowner.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Laura P. Buena Park, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:37:45 GMT

I wish I could afford a home, imagine being in a worse situation.. these people lost their homes, and has a chance to take their belongings. You compare it to a house fire, but what house fire gives you 72 hours notice to pack? These people were once in a situation to afford a home.... I think there are people that are worse off... what about the 2 parents and 3 children sleeping in their car and begging for money at the gas station? At least these families got to live a day in the american dream.... there is definately more people out there that are much more worse off.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

M Martinez — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:39:36 GMT

But on the bright side, the bank gets to sell the house again!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Del Grommon Kingman Az — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:43:17 GMT

You should buy a house you can pay for,dont to exepct to live in a mollion dollar and hav a motor home and boats when you should be in a 100000 dollar house and pating your bills,dont ask me for help I live in a small house I can aford and no motor home or boats and other toys for the rich.l

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

werkbot, Long Beach, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:46:23 GMT

In an atmosphere of greed and consumption, we all suffocate eventually.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Sarah, Tri-cities Washington — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:47:25 GMT

I have a hard time feeling bad for people who do not pay their bills. Sometimes it is hard to evict a single parent from their homes, but at the same time, we cannot afford to let people live at our homes for free. We have our own mortgages and bills to pay and when we're not getting the income, when our budgets are falling short and we're getting tight necked by the boss, we don't have a whole lot of options but to follow through with our promises of the contract. If we don't do it, someone else will.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

John Q. Public — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:51:32 GMT

Oh Poor Me....Who is going to take responsibility for my actions? I got a clue for ya...Take responsiblity for your own actions...Pay your bills...Don't buy something you can't afford! Don't break the law! Good grief people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Cindi Lanoue Oxford Mass — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:55:32 GMT

Thank-you to Mr. Bush who has squandered all the country's money on his war and left all his fellow Americans to slowly lose everything. He may claim to be a Christian, but it is obvious by his selfish and destructive policies that he is not.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

teach — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:10:15 GMT

There but for grace go I, and who knows when that might happen. I send prayers up and out for all those affected by the foibles of this administration and of their own understandable overzealousness. I pray all find a new home.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

AM, Chicago, IL — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:12:06 GMT

What a difference an admistration can make. Gas at $4.30 a gallon, the dollar at it's lowest level, endless wars, ect. ect.. Yep! George Bush did well for us.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Natalie, Warrenton, Va — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:20:16 GMT

Oh, I want Alice to come over for dinner. She seems like a fun person! See you their!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Pissed Off — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:20:42 GMT

I wish I could afford a small house of my own, instead of living in a bad part of town in a crummy rental, but I know what I can and can't afford. Everyone is feeling so sorry for these people . But you know what, maybe they shouldn’t have been so greedy in the first place. A 3000 square foot home!! I know MANY people who would be thrilled to even have 1000 square feet. If you bought more house than you could afford or played in the high risk investments you are getting what you deserve. Don’t expect me or my taxes to bail you out!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

John T — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:21:31 GMT

If they had been "Illegal aliens" the sherriff probably wouldn't bother them

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Dusty, Tampa, Fl — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:23:50 GMT

Every one condemning business. Lets change the scenerio from a mortgage to your wages being unpaid and see what your opinion is.
Many are living in houses, and trying to keep a life style well above their means. Like Waylon sang "So busy keeping up with the Jones,
four car garage and we're still building on"

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Jennifer, Truckee, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:24:47 GMT

While I am sympathetic to people whose illnesses have left them unable to pay their mortgage, many of the stories involve people who have agreed to make payments that they could not make. That is THEIR mistake, not mine. Our adult children have wisely decided to rent for now since the payments they would have to make (that they were approved for)on amortgage would be unrealistic. Why should I bail out people who made bad financial decisions?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Susan Rosenlof, Ingleside, IL — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:27:10 GMT

God Bless these people and be at their sides as they go forward from such a devasting loss. I couldn't disagree more with these comments made eluding to "pay your bills", "buy what you can afford"...these are tough times, costs surging higher and higher for everything, and I'm sure these people have fallen on very hard times where they CAN'T pay their bills. Perhaps they were laid off, perhaps they suffered a medical emergency. Where has compassion gone?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Martin Shellabarger, Madrid, Spain — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:28:40 GMT

Strange how the government (ie. Mr. Bush) can give TRILLIONS for tax breaks for the rich, but just can't seem to come up with the money to help anyone else.. . Time for a change.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Bill KC MO — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:29:59 GMT

pay your bills and this wont happen dont buy something you cant afford

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

brfiesin, Syracuse, NY — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:32:03 GMT

I can't believe how many people say "why cant the government do something"! haha... If your getting kicked out of your home, theres only one person at fault- you! You shouldnt have bought the house since you couldnt afford it! I don't see why it's my problem (the tax payer) that you bought a house you couldnt afford? Heck, if the governments going to bail people out, why don't I run out and buy a 10 million dollar house even though I only have a salary of $30k per year. then YOU can pay my house payment... sound good?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Richard W. Chicago, IL — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:33:18 GMT

Wow! It amazes me at that some people cannot even spell correctly but, can make comments about a complex situation. This country needs to address this situation and fast otherwise, this problem will lead to more in the near future.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Shirlee Gordon — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:43:46 GMT

I do not understand how Bush can hold his head up. What he has done to this wonderful Country is unconcionable. He is reponsible for every life lost in battle, and the military homes effected by this terrible War is unthinkable. I don't believe a Christian President would have put his beloved Country in this horrendous situation. We NEED to take care of our OWN, my Father used to say, "Charity begins at home". Try it Mr. Bush!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Anna — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:46:55 GMT

I've lived in 800 square foot apartments with my husband and 3 children. Both my husband and I worked hard so that we could finally afford our "dream house". Not the fanciest on the block, but it is a nice and modest home. I got sick and with the cost of everything else (including the insane insurance price and also medical bills on top of the insurance), we can no longer afford our dream. We are still making payments, but don't know how much longer we can afford to do that. It's only a matter or time before we lose our dream house. If it weren't for the medical bills, we'd still be living our little American dream.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Marlene, South Dakota — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:47:29 GMT

I think some of these families made the decision to "have food to eat this month OR make the house payment on time." WIth the price of everything so high these days (thank loser BUSH for that) some families have no choice...

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

NYB, Missoula, MT — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:48:07 GMT

Not all of these people are deadbeats who don't pay their bills. With rising cost of living, gas, food prices, housing and wages not rising with this, the Average Joe is having a very difficult time! The lack of compassion of many here and throughout our nation sickens me. Something I overheard the other day exmplifies the greed of those who are weathering this recession jsut fine: A woman talking to a friend about a home she & her husband wanted to buy. Not for herself or her family to live in mind you. She said that the payments would be under $300 and, "...we could rent it out for $1300 or $1400 a month!" Greed at it's finest and at the expense of others! In a city with a bad housing siuation already!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

cheryle,tennessee — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:50:59 GMT

let me get this right,our gov, bails out old freddie and fannie to the toon of billions, but the people whos taxes make this possable, just get the boot, where is the justice in this great nation?GOD HELP US ALL.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

SRM Arlington TX — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:52:49 GMT

These stories are sad, yet many of them are the result of the subprime market and adjustable rate mortgages.

Buyers - Don't purchase a home you can't afford.

Banks - Don't loan money to risky borrowers.

Remember the guidelines of having six months take home pay in your savings? That recommendation was made to help carry you through those times of a job change or housing change brought about by an employment or medical emergency.

People have over extended themselves on their credit, and banks have been too willing to support it.

And come on people...George Bush is not responsible for home foreclosures! (Look instead to Alan Greenspan's economic philosophies) Nor is he responsible for $4.30 a gallon gasoline. (Although his energy policy has not been the best, he is not the person denying us access to our own national oil reserves.)

We went though this stuff with the savings & loan collapses and real estate speculation in the eighties. We'll get through this mess too. It's just that more individual homeowners could be hurt because the bad lending practices and speculation extended so deeply into the ranks of those who lacked enough financial resources to weather the storm.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Becky, Morgan City, La. — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:57:20 GMT

Just remember that all middle class people are a paycheck away from eviction!!! Some do fall on hard times & I have felt thier PAIN!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

jane smith, tampa, florida — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:58:35 GMT

i used to work in real estate and see these closings take place. many people just didn't understand about ARM and balloons or interest only loans. education from the lender was sadly lacking. when you do a reverse mtg you have to see a counselor. i think for all loans the buyers should have to see a counselor before signing. its not the buyer's fault.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

SickOfTheWhining — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:58:50 GMT

Lesson #1: The bank is not in the friendship business, they are in the money making business.

Lesson #2: Don't take money you cannot repay.

Lesson #3: Your foreclosure affects my ability to get a decent interest rate, so PAY YOUR BILLS.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

BRANDI, HUNTINGTON IN — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 21:59:33 GMT

I DO FEEL SORRY FOR THESE PEOPLE BECAUSE I WAS ONE OF THEM. I DIDN'T OWN ANY "RICH PEOPLE THINGS". WE HAD A 820SF HOUSE. BUT WHEN BOTH WORKING PEOPLE LOOSE THERE JOBS...WHAT DO YA DO? I WENT FOR MANY JOB FAIRS ONLY TO FIND 2,000 PEOPLE FOR 5OO JOBS. THERE WERE 7 FACTORIES THAT CLOSED DOWN IN A MATTER OF 2 YEARS. ITS NOT ALWAYS THE PEOPLE FAULT. (BTW OUR JOBS WENT MEXICO WHERE ITS CHEAPER LABOR)

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Regular Daily Nightly Poster — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:01:28 GMT

I lived through my parents' foreclosure 12 years ago and I was very angry at my parents' inability to keep things going. (We got out before that final last day.) It is a feeling that is hard to forgive and forget. It just adds to the trauma of leaving. My dad never fully got over loosing his home that he built himself.

I don't think the mortgage industry is totally to blame. In my parents' case, it wasn't anyone's fault but their own in so many ways, boiling down to bad budgeting because the money was misappropriated. The bottom line, though, was that our growing family just cost too much money on my dad's blue collar salary and he got to the point where he wasn't/couldn't/didn't going to cut back anymore.

There are no clear villains in this war. For those feeling like the mortgage companies are all at fault, I can personally tell you its not always the case.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Personal Responsiblity USA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:09:04 GMT

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY:
Do not purchase what you cannot afford
Always pay your bills on time
Be dilligent in understanding what you sign
Take responsiblitiy for your own actions

and you will not find your self in this situation!

as a former property manager I have evicted several tenants over the years, and I have never seen one who didn't completely deserve it. Medical/ health related is the only valid reason for some kind of special arrangement.

1) Cut your loses, sell and rent where you can afford
2) work out a deal with the banks, they are under pressure from bleeding hearts these days
3) dont get into this situation in the first place

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

mike elrod, montgomery, alabama — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:09:42 GMT

we are all to blame, the government,businesses, you and me. eazy credit, living over our means. looks like it is time to tighten our belts, and be conservative. we have lived to close to the edge of the cliff for to long, now a lot of use are falling off. time to go back to planting gardens, a tv antenae with 3 stations(gasp), one phone, one car, a average house of 1500 square feet with a poarch and swing, dinner with the family, kids playing outside, work within walking distance, businesses closed on sunday. we really need to take one big step backwards and take a big breath and regroup. if we dont the america we love and cherish may be a thing of the past.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

mike elrod, montgomery, alabama — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:10:09 GMT

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Gracie Landers — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:12:28 GMT

The guy has a $4,800 mortgage? And his economic problems are somehow George Bush's fault? For the last 20 years and maybe more, American's have been buying everything they can get their hands on with money they haven't paid. Americans are responsible for the downfall of our economy...not the President. People who buy houses and all sorts of junk they can't afford, who don't lay up enough money to survive in case they get sick or lose their job are not wise. Being an American means that you have the right to pursue happiness, it doesn't mean you are actually entitled to it. It's not the greed of banks that is the problem...it's the people who are never satisfied, who borrow money they can't pay back. They shouldn't have purchased a house they couldn't afford. It's highly likely that a lot of these people never even put any money into the house in the first place...with a zero down 125% financing loans.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Doesn't matter — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:12:31 GMT

You guys are rediculous. "Don't buy things you can't afford". Well, let me tell you that at $120k a year, I could afford a 2.5k house payment,car payment and more. But then I lost my job. As a Sr. manager I expected that I shouldn't have much problem finding another, but it took almost 9 months. I had used up all of my savings (three months worth around 30k) and it was only luck that got me a job and a good ear at my credit union who held my HELOC who refinanced my house. We closed the day the deputy posted the notice on our door. There are thousands out there that could afford their homes when they bought them but circumstances led to a lose in wages. Don't fricken judge people on the basis that they lost their homes because they over spent.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Single Mama, Denver, CO — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:13:44 GMT

Don't buy a house you can't afford...I LOVE that comment! Most people buy houses they can afford and then their mortgage company raises rates...or completely collapses. Or the cost of living goes up and their wages don't. A lot of people out there are working EXTRA jobs just so they don't have to make that choice...food or gas! And THAT doesn't even help all the time. These are good people who got caught up in the economy. For those of you who can't seem to muster any compassion for these people being put out in the street...try to put yourself in their shoes! The way things are going...you just might be there soon!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Chris, Kansas City — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:16:49 GMT

All of keep saying "buy what you can afford." Have you stopped to think that maybe when they bought their homes they were buying what they could afford? You do not know what has happened in their lives to cause them to be in this position. It is not our place to judge, but at least show a little compassion.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

L.M Spokane, WA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:34:15 GMT

My heart goes out to those in need but look for what's really important in your lives. I gave my 49 year old wife CPR for 15 minutes while paramedics showed up. I walked her daughter down the isle at her wedding two days later. Took her off life support the next day. I'd trade all I have and sleep on the street to have her back.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

lynda, Arizona — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:34:34 GMT

I'm sure some of the people lost their homes because they overextended themselves but some of us were living in a small home with a fixed rate for a short amount of time that changed to an adjustable rate. When it came time to refinance, because of the economy, our homes were no longer getting the appraisel needed to do the refinancing we needed to keep our payments at an affordable rate. My payment jumped $500.00 a month. I am a single mother living with one income and an extra $500.00 a month was more than I could do...lost it. Up until that time I had NEVER had even one late payment. For all those in the same situation, I'm sorry. I know how it feels.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Jazmo, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:35:17 GMT

Ok, blaming the president for war and high gas prices I understand. Blaming him for people being evicted from their houses for not paying their mortgage? Ridiculous. George Bush is no great statesman, but this is giving him way too much credit, even negatively. There is no right to own a home in the United States. If you cannot afford one, you shouldn't make a binding contract promising to pay for one. It is too bad that lives are altered in evictions, but for many of these people poor decision making and bad budgeting are the causes. Also, demonizing banks for wanting their money that is outstanding on loans is ignoring the issue. If a private person owns a home and rents it out, they have the same right to evict a non paying tenant. Remember, the economy has taken a huge hit from all of the billion dollar write downs on loans that banks had realized they were never going to get paid on. Bottom line, blame the real culprits in this mess, the greedy subprime lenders that shouldn't have loaned money and those unwise people that bought much more than they could afford.
I agree with all of those that encourage people to have charity. That's fine, give a handout from your own pocket, just don't waste more of our tax dollars on another irresponsible idea.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

C. Moran, Anchorage, Alaska — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:36:03 GMT

alice are you a teacher or do you feel better about yourself correcting others mistakes. Isn't the spelling thats important, but the message. My son got hurt badly and was out of work over a year, his insurance company put a cap on what they'd cover. Wow. They COULD afford it when he got hurt, but barely managed to make it throught this. All the talk about don't buy what you can't afford, man,etc. some incompassionate people out there. You're young and buy a home with the amt of room you're suppossed to have and things are going well. Then tragedy hits. MAYBE a cap on Dr.s costs, hospitals, labrotories and decent health insurance would help!!!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mary Johnson, Holt MI — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:37:40 GMT

At the time they purchased the home, the mortgage rates were probably affordable, but now due to inflation of everything including flexible mortgage rates, they have a mortgage that is almost double what they started out with. Why can't we be more tollerant of someone who is down on their luck, even if it may have been poor choices made in the past. We ALL make mistakes in life.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

lynda, Arizona — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:40:38 GMT

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Kevin — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:42:28 GMT

FOR ALL YOU PEOPLE WHO SAY DONT BUY SOMETHING YOU CANT AFFORD, WELL THE SAME GOES FOR BIG CORPROATIONS DONT EXPECT MY TAX DOLLARS TO BAIL YOU OUT BECAUSE THEY WANTED TO BE GREEDY AND MAKE LOTS OF MONEY

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

jlessert, phx az — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:54:57 GMT

everything goes up except wages. even if you could afford your house youhave to make other concessions. Budgets help but even then youhave to ajust sometimes. if the country can support a war they should be able tohelp the middle income if there is such a bracket. if your in the middle income you qualify for nothing, if your in the low the govewrnm,ent subsidizes with food stamps, government housing free medical care. if you're in the upper group you great tax breaks and recession doesn't affect you either way.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Kelly, Greenville, SC — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:57:12 GMT

True, some fall on hard times and the once affordable is now not. But foreclosure takes months, and if you contact your mortgage company as soon as you know you can't make a payment, most times they will try to work with you to keep you from default. It costs banks money to foreclose, and they don't make it up by reselling the property. It's hard to have sympathy for people that won't man up and face their problems instead of ignoring them.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Charles M. DeLettre, Jacksonville, Fl. 32216 — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:00:03 GMT

Wow, what a variety of heartfelt and heartLess thoughts! I can tell you, after going through a
foreclosure with a chronically ill wife, and not
well myself at about 60, and three children--It wasn't easy. And, it wasn't easy to understand the
system of advice and "assistance programs" offered
at that time by the mortgage companies and the Housing
Administration during the late nineties. With an impending darker crisis on the horiizon, I pray that
this storm will pass, regardless of the cause of the
financial failures of corporations, banks, companies,
and the ones left with the load--the families. When the times are showing more and more persons having to make decisions to choose either their medicines or food, find their homes unaffordable also and their auto gas so high, it is impossible to leave one's neighborhood, you know something is definitely wrong.
Our homes are the last American Dream fragment; for those who want to tear these persons facing the losses
of their homes, apart, walk well, as you never know my friend when you will be tested also. I hope you are
not judged as critically as you judge in your words above.
Been there, Our Prayers are with those many losing their Homes and possessions.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Jansen, Hagerstown, MD — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:10:11 GMT

I am one who lost my home. My husband and I did it the way people think you should. We went to college, got degrees, even an advanced degree. We had a child when we were financially able to handle everything, went to a financial planner before buying the home, didn't have a lot of debt, got a 30-year fixed loan. Then I was laid off my job of 18 years. I couldn't find another one even when trying to take a huge salary cut. Because of my experience and education, I would never think that I'd have a hard time finding a job. And, I would have never thought that we'd lose our home, but we did. We saved. Right now we have in the six figures in our 401K that we were/are unable to touch because we aren't old enough and the only way we could get it would be for my husband to quit his job.

I'm here to tell you...you may not think so, but it could happen to anyone.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Jim ( DETROIT ) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:13:08 GMT

Fanny may / Freedy Mac, Bailed out ! The poor slug that bought the house from them ( Screwed )All the mortgage companys did was open the size of the cooky jar so people could get there hands in there further and buy homes they should not have, Normally they would not have qualified to buy such a house.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mark B, Chino, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:14:12 GMT

Wait a minute. I feel sorry for these people, but whose money do you think they borrowed for that mortgage? It wasn't the governements money, it was the investors' money. These people took a mortgage gamble and lost. I DID NOT take that mortgage gamble because I felt the risk was too high. So, now I'm supposed to use my tax money to bail them out of a bad risk? Where's my bail out for my credit card expenses, car loans, etc? Do you people NOT understand economics? Do you think the governement just prints more money to help out people during tough times? Get a clue! Why don't you hypocrits send these people your life savings if you feel so ashamed of the government?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Ernine Doe Lakewood, Wa — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:14:23 GMT

Putting people out of thier homes and on the street solves no problems for anyone! It only means they need public assistance and more resources used from already hard-pressed welfare agencies and food banks and such. Polititions of both parties allowed the death of bankruptcy laws that allowed a judge to reduce payments to where families were able to keep thier homes and remain employed--it's up to us to quit being misslead by the media and our own lack of intrest to put self-serving assholes out of office and enact meaningful laws that will solve these problems. Reform campaigh laws! Limit each politition to a set amount of money--from any source-- to campaign with, and you'll eliminate the influence of special intrest groups and others who buy legislation. we don't need polittions who can "win" a popularity contest but ones who actually care about those they reoresent and lead.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

J K, Harrisburg, PA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:17:20 GMT

Mr Bush has been saying this from day one - maybe his "GOD Bless America" banter is really just an illusion. The truth is always hidden in plain sight, you know. Gold (corporate profits), Oil (corporate energies), and Drugs (corporate pharmaceuticals) are truly what have been inflated during his tenure. It certainly hasn't been the morale of 'we the people'. What if ambiguous 'terror' was just a decoy?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Therese in NV — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:20:46 GMT

What we have here is a no-win situation. Mortgage companies and realtors have driven the price of real estate to the point of nonsense,for that fat profit.Somebody explain to me why a cracker box 3-bedroom, 1.5 bath, 1080 square foot house today costs between 350,000.00-500,000, when the same house sold for 75,000.00-85,000.00 less than 15-20 years ago. The only thing driving up the price is manipulated market profits. Lenders convince starry-eyed home buyers to buy ajustable rates mortgage, because they are easier to get into, knowing these families will lose the place when the rate goes up. But what the heck, lenders can foreclose, re-sell, make another fat commission and start the game over again. Add companies moving jobs overseas for big profits and cheap labor, what chance does the unemployed homeowner have?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Tax Payer, Fallbrook, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:21:03 GMT

Not quite like losing your home in a fire, you usually have little to no notice of a house fire. These people know they have not made their payments, they have received certified letters, notes on their doors and still they do nothing.
My husband and I struggle each month to make our first and second mortgage payments on our family home. If the day comes that we can't make the payment due to job loss or illness we will do what we have to find a less expensive place to live and mitigate our losses, we will not expect the government to jump in and pay our bills. All citizens have to stop behaving as though they are entitled to anything, life throws us all challenges and we have to make adjustments, find help where we can but not expect the government to take over our lives.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

nancy, Buena Park, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:23:21 GMT

I am in the Mortgage/Escrow profession and having managed a little over a year ago to be given a three day notice to vacate from an apartment that I had lived in for five years I can understand how the evicted owners feel. I would not want to be the sheriff who is there to make sure they vacate the premises. However, that being said, the home buyers ARE the ones who SIGNED their loan documents and in the loan documents it was FULLY disclosed what their payments would ultimately be so WHY DID THEY SIGN UP TO MAKE THE PAYMENTS? Pure greed would be my guess. Loan Mortgage Brokers/Lenders tried to convince the home buyers that they could refinance within one to two years of original date of purchase.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Therese in NV — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:27:02 GMT

Average 1080 sq. ft 3-bdrm, 1.5 bath homes often sold for $75,000-85,000.00 about 15-20 years ago. The exact same house is now selling for $350,000.00-500,000.00. What you have is greedy lenders driving up the home costs for huge profits, selling adjustable rates; knowing full well the house will foreclose when the rates jump up. But what the heck, lenders can foreclose,start the game over and get another big, fat profit check. How do investors/lenders get away with it? There is no regulation in the real estate market monitoring unethical selling behaivor. Maybe we should start pricing tents.....

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Meemerz, Virginia Beach, VA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:27:27 GMT

I work two jobs every day. I have faced hard times and near eviction more than once after I became a widow with a small child. I did not turn to welfare or the government. I made choices and worked my way out of it. I have never owned a home and could never afford one at age 50 still. there was no insurance money and I took 2 years to pay the funeral home for my husband's funeral. Im telling everyone this because if there is one thing I have learned in my lift it is COUNT ONLY ON YOURSELF. Dig deep, work hard, and get out of debt as best you can. I am proud to say I have put my daughter through college working my two jobs for the past 12 years. I plan on working two jobs for a while now that she is a college grad and working on a Master's degree. These people knew what was happening and what they were going to face. they should have planned appropriately and worked harder if they truly wanted to keep their homes. My adivce would be downsize and regroup and as long as your family stays together forget the past and move forward....

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Meemerz, Virginia Beach, VA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:28:22 GMT

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mike, San Diego, CA — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:39:42 GMT

A couple years ago I was approved for a $500,000+ mortgage. I knew I could really stretch to make the payment, but with the taxes it would be REALLY REALLY thin. I decided against it and am still renting. I guess I made the right decision, although I would really like my own home for my wife and kids instead of paying to live in someone else's and be at their whim to kick me out when they want. Somehow I don't see anyone coming to "save" me when that happens or to help me buy a home. I feel for these people, but like they say, if it is too good to be true, it probably is.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Chas. E. Martin — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:41:53 GMT

I realize that few people think for themselves anymore. Thank your teacher's union for that. I'd like to point out to the people who are spitting mad at George Bush that he couldn't do a single thing people are blaming him for without the cooperation of Congress. All 435 reps, and 100 senators are more responsible for this mess than George W. Although the talking heads would like you to believe otherwise. And while we're at it - Barack and John have absolutely no power to deliver on any of the promises they're making to the electorate. They can propose - but Congress is the final arbiter because they control the money. Get a brain, people - you've been had by everyone in Washington, not just the "other" side.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Sue Clark — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:45:07 GMT

Heart breaking. The bottom line, tho, is that the responsibility does indeed lie with the person who has lost their home. After all, it couldn't possibly be the fault of the greedy mortgage broker, or the real estate agent that colluded with that mortgage broker to get a loan approved that had less than a 1% chance of being repaid. They still got their commissions and of course were able to lay the loan off to some other greedy investors BEFORE the loan was 'imminently' foreclosable. It isn't about the property at all. The Mortgage business is about the commissions! The current foreclosure crisis is a perfect example of a pyramid scheme that has peaked. The only ones to make any money on the deal are those that got there first. The real estate agents and the mortgage brokers that used people's dreams to sucker them into investing their life savings into this evil pyramid scheme.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Ray Huff Reno Nv. — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:50:56 GMT

From what I understand of the forecloser situation 90% of these are caused by loss of income or unforeseen illnesses. Most of these had a finacial plan to pay. To say "be responsible, pay your bills" shows me a person who has not gone through difficult times. You are already bankrupt, in character.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Barbara Frost — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:57:30 GMT

It's obvious that Martin Shellabarger in Madrid, Spain, is totally clueless about what goes on in the USA. Mr. Bush has never given TRILLIONS of anything to the rich. The wealthy in this country pick up the tab for the other 80% of the citizens. Look around, vote to cut the entitlement programs, encourage competition in education, and watch this country prosper. Lose weight, get fit, get in game, people!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Sheila, Hanover, New Hampshire — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:57:59 GMT

What's really shocking to me is the lack of foresight some of these people have. If you fall on hard times, lose your job, or the interest rate on your mortgage goes up, etc... why don't you put the house on the market and get out while you still can? Having to sell your house because you can't pay for it is really unfortunate but what's worse is an eviction. Take care to protect yourself and your family while you can.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Barbara Frost — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 23:59:23 GMT

The entire 8 years that Clinton/Gore were at the helm,they did SQUAT to stop the terrorists in their blood-thirsty quest. 7 months into his job, Bush saw this country hit on 9/11. Does anyone here remember the facts????

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Paul, Anaheim, CA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:03:34 GMT

We've all heard plenty about the mortgage crisis, and that subprime mortgage lenders are to blame. The irony is, the subprime mortgage industry began because, at that time, there were very few options for the person in financial difficulty. Once you defaulted on your home loan, you went to Foreclosure. Yes, the same banks spurred a mortgage boom the likes of which our nation has never seen, making it MUCH easier for people to get into a home, and to save the home in which they are currently living.
But dream houses shouldn't be purchased on dreams -- they should be purchased on financial abilities. If the banks weren't in such dire straits by figuring out ways to aid those who took advantage of the lending systems for their own personal gains, they would be able to give a little more leeway to those who had purchased their homes responsible and are now truly in need due to circumstances beyond their control, like the folks in this news story.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Frustrated New Homeowner — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:11:19 GMT

Why does everyone feel so sorry for the people who bought more house than they could afford? I live in Las Vegas, where the market has crashed, and was just recently able to purchase the home of my dreams. I have waited for years, but knew that I could not afford a $500k house on $50k a year...If we are helping those people who can't afford their home but were stupid enough to buy it with an ARM, then the rest of us who were smart about purchasing a house should get a bonus check!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Ididnt Vote Forbush — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:19:31 GMT

For all those who say "Don't buy what you can't afford". I hope you get hospitalized or lose your job. Maybe then you will understand that life changes during the typical thirty-year mortgage commitment. I trust it won't take you that long to wise up and realize the ecomomy of 2008 is crap.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Been There and Wore the T-shirt, Texas — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:20:55 GMT

No one is asking for someone to feel sorry for the them...most of the people that lost their homes were not greedy (whether they decided to live in a 3000 sq. ft home or a 1000 sq.ft....at that time...they HAD a job that could afford their living expenses....no one wakes in the morning and says, "I want to lose my job"...or "I want to get sick"...When the money stops coming in...what happens....well, no money.....using your savings and your 401K can go so far...and those are the lucky one that have those...most people even more so now....do not have a savings account. And unfortunately, the GREEDY ONES are the banks/mortgage companies......because guess...most of the homes that are foreclosed on...are still sitting empty...the banks are NOT making any money. IF the government had stepped and helped those families....we would have been a lot better off...but the government prefers to give trillons of dollars to other governments before our own people......history repeats itself over and over......has the economy change? No...it is only getting worse....the mortgage companies are creating departments for bankruptcies and foreclosures....wow....now how does that help. Oh...and the ones that automatically assumes the families are greedy...becareful...because one day, YOU can lose your job and become ill as well....and if you live in an apartment..do you think they care....they care about money even more...YOU can be REPLACED...especially if your rent is due between the 1st and the 3rd....I am sure eviction comes swift and quick..................

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

JC McInnis, Honolulu, Hawaii — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:21:58 GMT

Why does everybody always blame the president, Yes, it is unfortunate. But you should buy with in your means. If you know you lost your job and things are going to get tough. Sell your house and downsize. THere is no way I would ever want to have a $4600. dollar house payment. I chose a small house that is not as nice, but if times get tough I should still be able to pay. If the government bailed out everybody whose chose to live above there means, why do people like me have to keep paying my house, shouldn't the goverment pay my bills too, afterall, I didn't over budget myself

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

J P — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:30:00 GMT

Somewhere in between "live within your means" and "the government should do something" is where the answer surely lies. I agree that many have made bad choices and that is certainly their own problem. I also agree that many have fallen on hard times and that really is a shame, however I personally have nothing left to give. My budget is being stretched to its limit now. It's not a question of greed or money or even compassion as many seem to think, it's simple economics. Even if I wanted to help them I don't have the means to do so. Why don't all the people who see only the humanitarian side of this take over their neighbors mortgages for them so they don't loose their houses? What?! you can't afford to help them either? Gee, I guess you don't have much in the way of compassion after all do you.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

regular joe — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:33:27 GMT

I'm so tired of hearing it's Pres. Bush's fault. No one takes responsiblility anymore.

I realize some people hit hard times and I do feel very sorry for them but also realize that a big part of the problem is twofold: mortgage companies doing business in a bad way and people buying houses they can't afford. Same goes for all the people who bought a lot of nice things on the credit card and then go bankrupt. Those of us paying as we go without new cars & big toys are angry that some people can run up their debt and just wash their hands of it. THAT SHOULDN'T BE ALLOWED! Again, those that hit hard times, I am sorry that happens to people.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

SB, Washington DC — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:34:02 GMT

To all those asking for a logical answer ...
Why can't our government do anything to ride through these rough times
Sorry you may not like what you hear
BUT
Please blame ALL THOSE IDIOTS who voted for Bush / Cheney - TWICE
This duo have permanently changed the face of AMERICA and are busy helping the Iraqis and Afghans and Pakistanis and the Arabs
Building schools, housing, roads, and introducing DEMOCRACY to the Shias and Sunnis
at our expense
Who played the fiddle while America burned ?

Tighten your belts
Worse is yet to come !

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

MIchael, Marshall Minnesota — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:37:26 GMT

While i do totally sympathize with individuals who've fallen on hard times, i recently purchased my first home. I went through lots of credit counseling (my score is high 700s so im lucky/smart), talked with our realtor and mortage agent etc....
my point - i have a plan - i have a mortgage i can afford - not a mcmansion, i have money put away in case of emergencies (and im talking 5 didgets like you ought to have, not 3), and i didnt overextend myself in credit cards etc.

Yes the banks should be held accountable (dropped off a cliff) for predatory lending - but where is accountablity and personal responsibility? I was approved for a 400k house - if i bought that and "had some bad luck" and lost the house - would you feel for me like the individualsin this article? People need to learn to appreciate what they have and what they can afford - not supersize to keep up with the jones' - if you've noticed - the joneses have all fallen!!!!!!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mark McKee, Albuquerque, NM — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:44:25 GMT

I love those idiots who post that they have no compassion for these people. "It's your own fault! Quit crying for the govt. to bail you out!" Yet when W's brother Neil Bush got the whole country in trouble with Silverado and the Savings & Loan scandal back in the 80's, the government was right there to bail them out, and we foot the bill. Most Americans don't realize that the govt. then turned around and sold back those same S&Ls to those same people who created the mess, for pennies on the dollar.
So for all you meat heads that voted for W twice, or think that Obama is going to provide "change", let me put it in simple terms that a child, and maybe even you, can understand. If homeowners got the same deal that Bush's friends and family get, the government would forgive my $200k mortgage and let me buy my house back for $2000. Gotta love those tax and spend Republicans & Democrats almost as much as the ignorant folks who vote for them. But this is crazy Ralph Nader talk, so, never mind...

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mark, Vancouver, WA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:04:17 GMT

We lost our home four years ago. Now we live in a small apartment. It's been rough but we'll have our bills paid off in about two more months. Then we start saving for another home. When you sign a contract, honor it. Including mortgages. Mr. Bush didn't make you buy a giant house you couldn't afford. Maybe it's time you people started making discipline a priority and cut back on the whining.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Jane Doe, Rural Hall, NC — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:16:28 GMT

I was thinking the whole time I was reading these comments; Does anyone know how to spell out there anymore? This country is not only in a financial crisis, it is in an educational crisis!!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

LM — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:19:17 GMT

Sorry folks, these people could get a SMALL apartment and start over. They are given months and months of notices. $5000 a month for a mortgage payment? Wow, that's double the average person's salary in the US.

Just like alcoholics, some people have to hit rock bottom before they will adjust their finances and lifestyle.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Thunderbird — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:22:29 GMT

It is the end of the world, so feel not surprised.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Elaine Anderson, Las Vegas, NV — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:25:50 GMT

Some people are very quick to judge. Every situation is different, and while some people did indeed bite off more than they could chew when they bought a home, others have just fallen upon hard times. It is truly a sad commentary that so many people believe the former about everyone first.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Dion, Yigo Guam — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:26:59 GMT

For those who lost their homes, I feel some sympathy that they did not educate themselves better on the perils of Adjustable rate mortgauges. For those who sit back and bad-mouth the President and blame him for the economy, gas prices, the home foreclosures, and the war, shame on you. I have spent the last 20 years serving my country on active duty, protecting your freedom and mine. You should feel blessed that you live in a country where you can openly speak your opinion. Don't complain do somthing to fix it if it's broke.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

C .Dewitt Seattle,WA. — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:27:32 GMT

This is aweful... All you people who think you have the answers with your your smart comments telling these people to pay the bills, don't buy a house you can't afford ect. Wait because it is people like you, that will one day get yours and see whoo will be there to support you! Where is peoples hearts these days?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Joseph Papirz Jr, Deerfield Beach, FL — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:31:38 GMT

Com'on people. Get over it. Bush didn't tell people to over invest, he doesn't set oil prices, it's Congress that won't allow drilling now just to try to tear down the Republican Party and regain the Democratic majority the recently lost. The man in the lead story lived in his house 10 years. His eviction wasn't a surprise or shock. It was a long time comming. He had time to adjust and didn't use it. Instead he took the re-finance route until he couldn't afford payments anymore. What did he use the money for that he got in refinancing? It's sad, but largely his own making. The people that say the Banks should just forget about the mortgage payments obviously don't have any understanding of economics. If you lend your neighbor tens of thousands of dollars and he can't pay you back in monthly payments like he agreed to are you going to tell him, "That's OK, just pay me whenever you can." When do you think you'll see that money? What do you'll live on or pay salaries with until he decides he can resume making payments again? How long do you wait?

Fiscal responsibility isn't just for Governments and Business entities. It is necessary for individuals too.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

rudolph e mills — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:38:02 GMT

i'm a totally disabled vietnam era veteran and ibought a house after being homeless for many years. and i did't know there was a lot wrong with the house ie i replaced a hvac unit,hot water heater ,numerous plumbing problems,extensive termite damage(and active termites)chimney promblems(caused a smoke/fire damage) damage and the va would'nt give me loan i had to go it alone va inspects houses for veterans that are lucky to get a loan. which is good if you're lucky to get one.i did't know what i was getting myself into i got behind in my arm apprx 9 1/2%( due to increase in aug) mortgage trying to do all the above repair. now i am being evicted from the house now it has been sold at the sheriff's sale. i had to file bankruptcy to try and save it but the winter utilities of 1,300average was too much!and icould'nt i'm on a fixed income.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

april b san bernardino,CA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:41:13 GMT

no one is immune to this problem. be you rich or poor,working class or a big business owner. we may all meet that dreadful day, renters and homeowners the like! So watch your lack of compassion when speaking, and take care to understand yourselves then take a check you got me? one love.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Dee Jay, WA state — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 01:58:34 GMT

I read a story about how in California, people were abandoning their homes because they couldn't make the payments, then other people, I suspect some were illegal aliens, were moving in and was almost impossible to get rid of them. They would just say how they were renting the place. And, for some very strange reason, you can't ask them any questions so they live there. Different story if you're white though or maybe even black.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Dirk, Austin, Texas — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:13:51 GMT

How about no-fault evictions of tenants? I signed my year lease at my 1 bedroom apartment ($585 monthly) where I had spent my previous 7 years. One month later I was evicted because the couple that owned my unit went bankrupt. When I had originally moved in my unit was an apartment, but my complex had been selling off units to individuals as investments and I was unaware that my situation had changed. I had to move into a more expensive apartment and pay tranfer fees and deposits all over again. I'm still financially reeling over this event and have not had contact with any representatives of the new or old owners of the old apartment other than the bankruptcy notice from a lawyer out of state. I certainly could not travel to the court proceedings and do not know the results. No fabled "Cash for Keys" here... just a guy that paid his rent & got punted out anyway. Thank goodness I'm not a family man in a big house that was full of prized possessions, that could've put me completely under!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Delia, Stamford, CT — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:22:32 GMT

It is complex. If you haven't been there, you don't understand. I bought a house I wasn't ready to buy because my family pressured me and that's what my spouse wanted. I've been struggling to make the payments on the house, car, utilities etc for years. Then, after losing my job, it all fell apart. Almost lost the house but working with the lender. Great - got a job, and after 8 months, it is eliminated. I would love to dump my house and start over - but guess what? Who would want to rent to me with my bad credit? And if I move to where life is more affordable, who is going to give me a mortgage after this whole mess? It is a double edged sword, and I don't want a free ride - I just want a chance. So when you pass judgement, keep in mind that it could happen to you in the blink of an eye. I don't get government assistance or try to beat the system like so many I've seen. I'm just an average person trying to make it. I've made mistakes and I've made bad choices, but guess what - I don't deserve to lose my house because I've fallen into tough times. And many of us who have fallen into this situation don't deserve to be demonized. Oh, and by the way - before the market crashed, I had over $100K of equity in my house - which I couldn't get to because my credit is bad. So I can't get to the equity that will help me improve my finances, and if I sell my house, what can I buy? It goes around, and around, and around. Life isn't fair - but you work with what you've got.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Western Washington — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:25:39 GMT

It all started with Cane and Abel. It's all about money, how to get it, keep it and spend it. Without money you are nothing, or close to it.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

sguss omaha, nebraska — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:35:09 GMT

my sister just fell victim to a foreclosure due to an over-inflated appraisal and her lack of financial wisdom...her dreams and hopes out-weighed her good judgement...yes, she is too blame but it doesn't take away from me still feeling badly for her circumstances...

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Benson Stein — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:38:13 GMT

I have no sympathy at all for them. They got sucked in by easy credit during the boom cycle, paid way 0over-inflated prices, and now that things have gone bust, they are learning a cruel lesson in economics.

If you can't afford to buy a house, rent a place. If you have to max yourself out on credit to by some flashly new SUV that sucks gas like a vacuum hose, drive an old junker that you ***own***. Wow, what a concept, no $400 car payment every month. You actually hold the title to your vehicle, how radical a notion is that. It's time for these credit junkies to 'pay the piper.'

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Robert, Spokane, WA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 02:50:58 GMT

Whatever happened to living within your means? If you can't afford it - don't buy it.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

JB — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 03:25:42 GMT

It's not President Bush's fault that no one has any savings these days. My family would have been on the street too when my dad got sick with cancer and subsequently passed away a year and a half later. my mom told me how much they ended up paying after insurance, and it was obscene. but, they pinched pennies all the time and had enough savings to cover the expenses and keep the house. and by pinched pennies, i mean we ate out like once a month at taco bell and used coupons! and guess what, our furniture was the stuff my dad had in college, among other hand-me-downs and such. buy what you NEED, not what you WANT. and learn the difference. I'm glad my mother taught me the importance of financial planning. if the goverment could do anything to help out american citizens, it would be to offer a financial education class. everyone needs to learn how to be responsible for themselves, and when something seriously goes wrong we can help them. the majority of the government budget goes to transfer payments (read: welfare, social security, etc). I would rather pay less taxes and be aware of how much i need to save in case something terrible happens than pay 60% or 70% in taxes and hope the government is solvent and will take care of me.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

rc, chicago, il — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 03:50:56 GMT

For most people, a job loss or illness or other unplanned, uncontrollable loss of income could require them to live of their savings for up to 18 months or longer. Do you really have 18 months of living expenses saved - most people can go only a few months. And, for dual income families, finding another job in the same city, town or state might be virtualy impossible. I really find it hard to believe someone on the brink of foreclosure would refuse suitable work if it would save their house. Unfortunately, these situations are sad and often do not have any easy answers. Forclosures reduce home values for ALL of us, and increase the liklihood of crime in our neighborhoods. Add it the fact that these family probably aren't spending money on other local services, and therefor put additional jobs at risk - perhaps yours. Let's all hope that these families find a way to stay in their homes and contribute back to our communities. Unless you want to bunch of rundown, unmaintained homes on your block...

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Herb Schmirt — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 03:59:23 GMT

I hate to side with the banking industry on this, but people sign mortgage cotnracts every day with useless adjustable rate mortgages and now the federal government wants to step in and bail their butt out of hot water when they should have read the damn contract in the first place. Mortgage bankers are there to make money, not to make sure you can afford the loan. Couple this with the fact that probably 85 to 90 % of the population lives waaaayyyyy beyond their means. Folks, everyone who manages their money is not indebted to bail out the ignorant who get into debt with high interest rate loans that turn out to be too much within three to five years. The greedy ones are the people that used credit to dig themselves so deeply into debt that bankrupcy is the only option. Maybe a good dose of Dave Ramsey economics would help reduce stupid tax in our great country. I'm all about making the best out of what you have, not for cleaning up the mess of someone who is an irresponsible financial boob.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

GENE Boullion, Winnfield, LA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:21:40 GMT

I AM A VICTIM OF MORTGAGE SERVICING FRAUD!

After reading comments prior to this postings, I would like to suggest that each one you go to: MSFRAUD.ORG and read, read, read the real problems...

Read Home Page:
1) Click on "The Issue"
2) Click on "The Fraudsters" (turn you volume up on computers speakers.
3) Click on "The Forum" read the threads.

STOLEN!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Colo Lady — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:34:25 GMT

And when did we become a two person income society?....my parents generation could afford a home on one persons income...if the breadwinner got sick/injured...at least the other spouse could get a job and pay the mortgage....and when I graduated from school I could afford an apartment by myself...now young adults are forced to live with their parents/relatives/roommates.....our current salaries only go half as far as they used to.....What happened?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Lester Moore, Charleston, SC — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:35:05 GMT

Give me a break! Compassion? If you don't pay your mortgage you gotta leave; simple as that! They got themsleves into a mortgage they couldn't afford and now they're whining because they can't stay in a house for free?! LOL

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Bill Carpenter, Cincinnati, Ohio — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:41:50 GMT

This is why you really need to seek out advice when you sign for a house. With all the fancy loans out there for the reason of letting everyone own a house and to allow Illegals to own property you just knew this was going to happen. Adjustable Mortgage rates looked so good but when they started to rise so does the payments. Some loans were given with even a verification of employment. It is sad but there are allot of these loans that never should have been made. I don't know about you all but when i bought mine it was figured on a sheet what my house, insurance utilities, etc and weather my salary could cover it. This should be done ALL THE TIME.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

papa, georgio, ga — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:06:12 GMT

part of this problem is that people get so stinking many payments that if one thing goes wrong, everything falls apart.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Vicki Mare — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:06:53 GMT

Rather than the pity me attitude--Don't just sit there DO SOMETHING like living within your means.Your children will survive without 100.00 jeans and you don't have to have that big screen tv just because you neighbors do. You were warned before the eviction,There are many legal ways to make an extra 500-100 per month but you have to be willing to work at it.I just paid off my place early,drive a very nice van,wear quality Vicki Mareclothing ,have money in my pocket...and I don't have a real job!!!! I sell at craft shows and flea markets.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Danette — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:22:50 GMT

It doesn't end there. When you lose your home to forelosure, any credit you may have had goes to H*ll and therefore any credit card purchases become more expensive. Then there is not to forget the fact that landlords run credit checks. You can't own a home, but without some pretty forgiving landlords, you can't rend one either.

Rent is also being driven up as a result of the high numbers of renters and that causes many to be unable to afford rent. But hey, so long as we bail out the fraudulent lenders and punish those who had the misfortune to be lured into traps. I seem to remember that the 1800's was like this in the U.S. Carpetbaggers anyone? Make a million off the unfortunate anyone? ahhhh, they're already poor, taking more won't change their status.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Danette — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:38:16 GMT

DANG, how quickly everyone forgets. Yep, blame the people who were encouraged, solicited and told by their friend real estate agent, neighbor bank loan officer, "Oh yeah! run out and get another equity loan, loans are cheap, your house value is sky high, do it, you can't lose!" Don't forget that many were told this wasn't living beyond their means. We still see credit card commercials up the ying yang, Still see loan offers on the internet and on television, and yeah, I'm just flabergasted at the "take it ya big baby" attitude. You worried about your taxes bailing these people out? You just bailed out the CRIMINALS who successfully perpetrated the hideous crime. And no one is even putting a single one on trial or in jail. Remember Enron anyone? Fudge the books, win millions, put it in your swiss account, and make sure Bush is your business buddy!

I'm so flabbergasted at the attitude of tough nougies. Not a single one of you can possibly imagine having the rug ripped out from under your feet, and I can bet that a percentage of you who have been such harsh judges will learn that reality yourselves when you realize you were silently sold an ARM mortgage when all this time you thought it was a fixed rate mortgage. Or you work at a corporation who has to downsize, or you suffer catastrophic illness that our wonderful world doesn't provide health insurance coverage for. Geez. When a person has made 10 years of payments on a home, there is most certainly a way to redo a longer term mortgage, which would pocket more money for the bank anyway. The awful reality is, that when a home is already more than 35% paid, it's a HUGE bank profit to foreclose, becuase they can net not only the money left from loan, they can net in addition all profits left above the loan in auction. That money is pronto, and not 20 years or more down the line. Great way to make money banks! Rake it in! For those of you who state that they should take their lumps: Karma people, karma!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Derek H. Muyskens, Newhall, CA. — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:39:35 GMT

Sadly this scenerio has been played out in this country so many times over the years. Why has the financial regulators in government not put into law the legislation to keep these greedy banks and lenders up to the standards of FULL DISCLOSURE on "creative" financing, thus putting an end to Sub Prime, Interest Only mortgages, Reverse Mortgages Etc. to name a few. These are all tactics for the financial institutions to fleece America. Next I agree that the person seeking the loan should keep their feet on the ground, as well as their ability to see that they are getting fleeced both in bad terms for a loan, as well as overvalued real estate which is worth 1/3 of the market value which is overinflated due to real estate speculators driving home prices into the stratasphere. I never fell for it, my marriage ended because I wouldn't allow myself to be victimized by it, and unfortunately couldn't afford to but a house in a non existant sensible housing market here in California. The moral of the story here is listen to the greatest generation that preceeded us, LIVE WITHIN YOUR MEANS!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Rita Atlanta, GA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:42:16 GMT

I'm walking away from my home. Why? I'm retired, purchased well below what I could afford with a huge down payment. The area I returned to had changed drastically and I didn't know it. After having a supposedly good attorney, supposedly good realtor (be careful of Century 21) supposedly good inspection, I had to literally gut the place, and after a year, have run out of money. Bank of America over valued the property by 1/3. Plus it lost another 20% in the correction. My advice? Do your own homework. Trust no one. Go to the local police department and check the crime rate, go to the assessors office and see what they have to say, go to the building inspector and see what information he has on the building. If you've been away for a while, rent first.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:42:19 GMT

Thank the Bush man and all of his boys.... The GOP has screwed us again........

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Hipp-Ee-Chik Broussard,Louisiana — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:12:53 GMT

I have never had a home foreclosed on but I feel bad for both sides,the bank doesn't want to take your home but it's the banks job to make money to make money on these loans to pay for all the money that they loan out and to pay their employees.Most people want to pay their mortgage but for some reason or another just can't,they may have an illness or lost a job or taken a cut in pay to be able to keep their job at all.On the other hand there are alot of people who buy things and never have any intention of paying for them and feel that because others have a nice house,car,boat,etc. that they should too. My husband does financing for a car dealership and he has people that come in wanting to buy a Jaguar,Mercedes,Escalade,etc.so they can get back and forth to work(and have a credit score of 550),when he explains to them that he can't get them financing on a vehicle like that but they have other options of nice,used cars,trucks,SUV's and the leander will give them a free warranty for the 50,000 miles on a vehicle that is only one or two years old they laugh in his face and say they would rather walk.He tells them that the loan companies that he deals with for people with bad credit give warranties so the buyers don't lose the vehicles due to repairs they can't afford.Ninety percent of those people walk out because they don't want a used vehicle.I have never in my life owned a new vehicle and I don't plan on it. I have owned five homes all of which I sold and made money and each time the person that bought it knew that they could not afford the monthly payment after the interest rate changed and all but one lost the home to a finance company within six months of the change of interest rate(I didn't even sell them near market value because my husband and I had found another property to invest in and wanted to make a quick couple thousand dollars as well as give others a chance at owning a home that had equity up front)one person even went so far as to sue us because they couldn't afford the payments,the kicker is that they bought it from us but financed it through their bank,we won of course and they had to pay our legal bills as well but that's what made me realize that there are alot of people out there that you just can't help,they will take advantage of you as an individual or as a lending institution.I have compassion for people but if I can't pay my house note then I should try renting out my home and living elsewhere or selling and possibly take a loss but it's gonna be alot bigger loss if the bank steps in. I hope that no one has to go through this type of ordeal but the sad fact is it happens all the time if not to you usually to someone you know.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Darrin,Los Banos,California — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 06:51:10 GMT

We must seperate the peaple who really deserve the help from the people who don't deserve it. The people who bought homes just to make a profit off it when the market was good don't deserve my tax dollars to bail them out. The people who bought a home to give their family a place to live, and fell on hard times, lost their job, or had a medical condition or possibly was mislead by their realtor when they purchased their home deserve all the help we can give.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

J.Perkins Jetersville, Va — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 07:04:34 GMT

I,ve almost been their, the bank just wanted to foreclose on my house for several late payments, things happen and when you are doing it by your self it makes it even harder, and forbid things start breaking down, the pay check just doesn't go far enough,.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

charrison, Lebanon, Il — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:57:16 GMT

I rent a small trailer that maybe worth $1,000...but at least I have a roof over my head. I can't even afford to think about buying a house. I work two jobs, and it's still hard to make ends meet. I can't understand why people are blaming Bush for their own stupidty. I was taught the eagle doesn't always fly high without it's tail dragging the ground sometime, which means don't think that just because you have a house and nice things, that nothing can't touch you, one day you could lose it all in one sweep, which most of these people have found out.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Somebody's Grandma, Hayward,CA — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:49:21 GMT

I once worked in the credit industry, then to make more money I went into the collections side of the industry.I helped people who were unable to pay because of hardship,& learned some people you cannot help by some bandaid like an extension or interest only payments, because they cannot manage thier money. Sad but true. The only fix for this credit problem is to eliminate unsecured credit & enfrce repo's and evictions of homebuyers if they defaULT ON PAYMENTS. The bible tells us to not be beguiled by deceitful riches. Isn't the whole credit system usury?
I am now medically retired and have had to learn to suvive on less than 25% of my former income. I ve had many debt problems because I hadn't planned on being disabled, no matter I had to default on many debts & found willingness to return stuff bought on credit doesn't work. The ecomomy runs on cash. If you cannot pay for it save for it. Credit is an industry that hurts everyone. The credit system will collapse & this current housing market crises is just the most visible part. The credit system is deceitful riches. The sooner one learns to live cash and carry the less stress they will have in their lives.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Peter W. Luleå, Sweden — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:36:43 GMT

Should people live within their means? Of course. Do people make mistakes? Of course. Circumstances happen. Everyone faces hardships. Look around the world America! Does the government have an obligation to it's citizens??? Or, do the citizen's, for that matter, have an obligation to the government. I think it's both. Think about it.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

MikeInIndy, Indianapolis, IN — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:45:07 GMT

There are no doubt sometimes extenuating circumstances: illnesses, lost jobs once thought secure, etc. And I can't help but remember the retirement plan administrator at one of my clients. Every single one of her employees told her she was an idiot for not getting a huge mortgage while the getting was cheap. When the rates adjusted, every single one of those people was on the street, moaning about how someone should have warned them they couldn't afford what they were buying. Or they'd tapped their equity to buy vacations and cars they couldn't afford, and the way the housing ATM ran out of cash took them by surprise. I'm still renting, but I'm also not losing my home. Now who's the sucker?

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Bleeding Heart Bob — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:52:39 GMT

Oh please Government people; I am ignorant and stupid so will you please give me handouts like the Katrina people. The government isn't responsible for the mess you've gotten yourself into, and definitely not responsible for getting you out on MY tax dollar.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

James Mathews Wilmington NC — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:40:58 GMT

Its so sad. I wish there was and answer. The sign of the times are on us and we better get ready for some real hard times. Take care of our families and live each day as it was our last. God bless us all.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mike Phoenix Arizona — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:03:04 GMT

I am sorry most of these people took the quick cash and lowered their payments so low they all had to know that their arms would come calling soon. When I refinanced we did a fixed loan sure we have a higher payment but I have a hard time feeling sorry you all knew this was coming you should not have been so irresponsible shame on all of you. Now you are bleeding our society and all we hear about is woe is me my house is gone. Most of you got off with umpteen thousands of dollars and boats,cycles,and God knows what else SO I DONT REALLY FEEL SORRY FOR YOU now you have to reap what you have sewn. I feel bad for the children of these irresponsible parents. Sorry kids we gotta move in with MOM, Or AUNT and UNCLE.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Smartass, nowhere, hell — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:05:52 GMT

Looking at how things are today it could happen to anyone, what if tomorrow you lost your job that you had for the past 10 years and yea your income was stable and you could afford that house you're now about to lose how would you like if someone said well you should have forseen that you would lose that job 10 years down the road, honestly people can be down right stupid, they don't think, they think it could never happen to them, open your eyes it's going to get much worst and keeping a job will become much harder, you could wake up and find that it has happened to you and you know what to bad you should have pulled out that crystal ball and seen it coming.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Jeneen Roach West Liberty KY — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:21:36 GMT

For all those people who are saying that these people shouldn't buy things they can't afford. They probably could afford it when they bought it, as the one lady on here quoted, but for the grace of God go I. For all those ready to kick someone while they are down, the difference between you and them could be as close as one missed paycheck, one serious illness or injury. DO NOT judge these people, you do not know their lives or circumstances. Shame on you! It is a sad statement that so many in our society are without compassion.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Tim, Chattanooga, Tennessee — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:29:40 GMT

I certainly have sympathy for these people, "there, but for the grace of God, go I"; but you have to ask yourself, what put them there? Was it a true hardship, or was it materialism? Is your house too big, or too extravagant for your income? Do you have to own all the toys, all the latest styles, the nicest car, etc...How many times have you ran up the balances on your credit cards, then re-financed your home to cover them? There is almost always another way, and it usually begins with not buying something you really don't need.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Mark in Havasu — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:30:40 GMT

The homeowner signed the loan docs........and the lender is just as much at fault by BS'ing the homeowner.
I thank God that I worked my ass off and paid CASH for my home in AZ.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Travis Lyall — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:33:06 GMT

I am going to go out tomorrow and buy a $400,000 home. I won't be able to afford it next year but I can just say the system is broken or ask the government to bail me out.
Or maybe I will just buy a home i know I can afford.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Bob, Lakeland Fla. — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:36:40 GMT

The whole loan process is a mess. Banks and lending institutions have had it made for decades. Why can people purchase an $80,000 dollar car and have it paid off in 5/6 years, but an $80,000 dollar home can take up to 30 years to pay off? Greed, plain and simple......

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

alfred — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:44:04 GMT

ARM = gambling

If you gamble and you lose; don't come crying to me the taxpayer for a government bail-out. Though there are some exceptions; most of this involves fat americans with an 'entitlement' mentality.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Samantha - Cincinnati, OH — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:45:29 GMT

I do real estate investing and have purchased many of these homes. I can't say I feel sorry for most of these people. They get into mortgages and homes they know they can't afford and when it comes time to leave, they don't get out when they have a chance. Instead they stay as long as they can tearing up the homes for the new owner to deal with. I know people come on hard times and lose their job....but as a parent I would do anything for my child. Work 2-3 jobs at less pay to provide a roof over their head and food on the table. I relate foreclosures to tenants who skip out on rent and get evicted. You have lazy parents laying around complaining they lost their posh job and are trying to find something else. What about rent in the meantime.....isn't McDonald's or WalMart hiring? Well I just couldn't work for that amount......well if you're not will to put out the effort then get out. Health situations are another story......I do feel for these people.....but that's why you should have a backup plan. Living paycheck to paycheck is never the way to go.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Di — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:49:33 GMT

Excuse me not all get houses they cant afford, or have the boats the pools or other things that come along with having some money, alot have bought when they had jobs and there health was good, things happen, Divorce, getting laid off, plants closing, medical problems, an if you read the news you see that alot of banks push there appraisels to the limit, an fingagal paper work to make the numbers work to put people in these houses to begin with,(there are people being indited for this now) giving some people false security about what they can afford, Ive seen some give loans to people that already have several other loans out there an substansial credit credit card balances to go with it, and they still give them, Ive seen people that could afford them when they first got them,then they fall on hard times,(laid off,or plant closing or medical) they have to start paying higher interest an late fees, then the car dies or tires blow or the roof starts leaking, Ive seen these people trying their hardest to pay hosbital bills,house payment, electric, keep the car up,gas,clothe and feed the kids to have something else to come along an happen to send them down a little farther, I hope and pray you never have to know that feeling of total emptyness an worthlessness and not know what to do next or where to go.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

alfred — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:51:14 GMT

Nice throwing up statististics of "90% of these are caused by loss of income or unforeseen illnesses"

Too bad that statistic is false but maybe if you say it enough times people will believe it.

A large part of it is ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY (with some exceptions); plain & simple. We saw in this one article people with $4,800 mortgage and 3,000 square foot apartment. Boo Hoo.

I will have compassion for the smaller percentage of them; but not for many, if not most of them.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

J., NY, NY — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:57:53 GMT

What kind of job does one have, to be able to have 6 months worth of income stashed away for "hard times/unforseeable circumstances" in this economy?? OH, you must be a sub-prime mortgage lender...

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

pjr fairbanks, ak — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:05:20 GMT

I believe Mr Huff your figure on Foreclosure of 90% is way to high. People were living way above their means. Loan were given to people who could not afford them and were only thinking in the short term.
FOr all who want the government to bail you our, quit your whining because as a taxpayer I don't want to pay your bills. Nobody bailed me out when the stock market in 2000 or 2008 and I lost money due to bad stock picks.

Congress is responsible for the high gas prices so write your representatives to Drill Here, DRill Now Pay LESS.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Bill Desser — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:27:00 GMT

I blame Greenspan. He was supposed to be regulating the banks and mortgage lenders and didn't. He lowered interest rates way too much and for way too long. He allowed adjustable rate mortgages and non amortazation mortgages and allowed this whole mortgage mess. He is not a hero!!! Congress overspends and overspends then blames Exxon when gas prices get higher, mostly because Congress has weakened the US dollar. And that overspending is not going to stop because Obama will lrun a trillion dollar deficit then raise tases on ALL of us which will then realy cause ALL spending and investment to fall. Depression here we come because we are so stupid!!!

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Colleen, Plainfield, IN — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:28:46 GMT

I live in a decent town with 4 star schools and a nice park. We live in the old part of town, our house was built in the 50's, in a 1015 sq foot 3 bedroom 1 bathroom home. Our home cost us $104,000, we have a morgage payment of $1,030 each month. My husband and I each work 40+ hours a week for about $14.00 an hour, and we both went to college. Add this up then take out taxes, insurance (for car and health and we both drive older cars with no payments), food, student loan payments of $60.00 a month each, gas, health care, and child care for one child at $110.00 a week. We both work very hard, but barely make it by each month. Rents around here run just a much as our house payment for a 2 bedroom appartment, so we didn't make some wild rash decision about buying our home. And we are not talking about living in OC California, we live in Plainfield, Indiana. Also, around here we do not have the infastructure to be able to walk everywhere or even ride bikes, my closest grocery store is 9 miles away, try walking it with a kid and icecream, I have. If people are willing to work hard they should be able to live the American dream and own a home in a decent community, have a car and have 2.5 children if they wish, but that is not the way it works anymore. Are you any better than the guy who works 50 hours a week at minimum wage but can't afford a place to live? Something is wrong with our country when hard working people can't afford the necessities to live a decent life.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Josie Latorre, Deltona, Florida — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:55:25 GMT

The way I see it, is that it can happen to anyone. weather you are rich or not. Dont tell me that if you have money and a great job, you will not go out thier and buy that nice house or expesive car. Dont lie to yourself. Losing everything can happen to anyone. I know hard working people with children that are not rich and thier homes are cheap, and one day they lost everything and now have nothing. Why? because one of the spouses got sick, then came the bills, then they lost thier job. The other could not afford the $800 rent which is the average in some places in Florida. Did they deserve this? NO. A rich person or a poor person do not deserve to go throught anything like this. Now for you folks out thier that state -- "pay your bills or else", or "dont buy that big house if you cannot afford it", you really need to think about what your saying, becuase the next person that can loss thier home can be you. It only takes a illness or lay-off from work to lose everything. I pray for those people that have lost thier homes and hope that they can get back on thier feet.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Renee, Oakton VA — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 01:58:22 GMT

Wake up people. If you don't pay your mortgage, you don't get to live in the house for FREE. It isn't the bank's fault. People overextend themselves financially, then cry the blues when they have to move out of the home they should have never bought in the first place. I suppose those of us who make sound fiscal decisions should take up the slack for those who don't? Get real.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Joey Machado, Texas — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 02:10:53 GMT

People need to take some time and appreciate what they have and be thankful for what they do have. Living beyond their means and living for material things will always end up with the same result. Learn to live with what you have not what you wish to have. By doing what you can afford now and putting a little away eventually you will have more than you ever dreamed. Baby steps....Best of luck... and have faith

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Maple Leaf , British Columbia, Canada — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 08:29:40 GMT

I live in Canada,and my husband lost his job around 6 years ago. It took him 7 1/2 months to find another job. We used up all our retirement savings, then were forced to sell our house.We used a lot of our equity to pay off our bills. We bought a smaller house,then sold that 2 years later and used more equity to pay off more bills. We moved down again into a townhouse, and we are now selling that 1 1/2 years later, paying off the last of our bills. We have lost so much of our equity that we can no longer afford to own our own home. We are going to be renting again, for the first time in our 30 years of marriage. It would have been much easier to have declared bankruptcy but we took the high road and paid everyone back. It has taken us 5 years of a hellish existence to do so, but we have succeeded.If we had not been in a strong real estate market,and able to buy the last two properties low and sell higher, than we wouldn't have been able to have kept earning more equity back and using it to pay our bills. We were fortunate that we could do that , and that my husband got another decent paying job. It is however significantly less than what he made before. Not everyone would even have the choice to pay back their debts, if they didn't have some of the options we had. I have nothing but compassion for people losing their homes in the U.s. I think the same plague is going to hit Canada very soon, for different reasons. Not so much because people are getting mortgages they can't afford, but the cost of living here is so high, and families are so overextended just trying to make ends meet. One lost job, two lost jobs, an illness, and disaster is going to hit. It makes my heart ache to even think about it. I am not surprised however by some peoples lack of compassion, because we have experienced the same thing. Everyone we know ran for the hills when we were struggling. Many have behaved as though we deserved what happened to us. Meanwhile I am sure that one day God will humble those who sit in arrogant judgement of those going through terrible suffering. It is so easy to stand on the outside of storm, untouched by the destruction, and judge others who are being ripped apart from stem to stern. I feel sorry for all the people who have been so lacking in mercy towards others, because the mercy they show others is the same mercy that God will show them. It is a thing called "justice". Amen.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Amy Carter, Farmville, Virginia — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 03:05:06 GMT

I am going through foreclosure right now, not because my husband and i couldn't afford our payments. We got our construction loan and payed it just fine then the loan company that was doing us a "no-document loan"(because I had a very high credit score but, I owned my own business that had just started) went bankrupt a couple days passed and then Bush passed a law due to all of the foreclousures that lenders could not do "no-document loans" anymore. We stayed in our home but the construction loan termed out and now we can't do anything to keep it b/c they won't extend our term until i can verify my years worth of income. I am only 24 years old and thought I was doing great for myself with the way the economy is today. Now I will have to file bankruptcy and forever be afraid to purchase anything because this was definatly not my defalt--who do I blame???

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

Dee Porter — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:54:27 GMT

To all of you who scream pay on time God Bless you. I am assuming you never had to choose between food, water, gas, electricity, as a means of survival. Yes people make mistakes but there has to be a better way to deal with this situation. So go ahead make your personal judgements if you like, but remember this could be you or someone close to you anyday now......No one is looking for a handout but a helping hand.....I will pray for those of you who are so closed hearted that you cannot see where we are all headed and that your possessions, homes etc are not safe either

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

J Harris, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:29:25 GMT

My fellow Americans, after reading this story I wonder wouldn't it be a better deal to bail-out the homeowners than the banks? Why not pay the money to the banks for these bad mortages? Let the homeowners stay in their homes and continue paying their same mortage amount rather than an increased one.

When everything is gone: Witnessing evictions

starr, chicago, IL — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:40:56 GMT

OMG, to afford a $4,800 mortgage (which is $57,600 per year) he would have to make AT LEAST $200,400 per year in salary...was this guy some kind of CEO of a huge company?? How in the world did he qualify for that mortgage!!!????