You’ve had some hard luck and you’ve fallen behind a bit on your house payments. You’re terrified you’re going to lose your home, but you don’t know what you can do about it.

If this is the predicament you find yourself currently in, don’t worry. We have a few tips for you that might help keep that foreclosure sign out of your yard.

Don’t Dodge Those Calls

When you begin to fall behind on your payments, you’re going to start getting calls. A lot of calls.

It can be uncomfortable, worrisome, or even downright embarrassing to answer those calls and have to own up to your financial shortcomings, but that’s precisely what you have to do.

Be honest with the people you’re talking to and realize that they don’t want to see you lose your home. They’re not your enemies, but they could become allies. They will likely work with you in any way they can if you give them the chance instead of making them chase you down.

Remember the Pecking Order

With bills, there’s a certain hierarchy when it comes to what should be paid first. The top priorities should be your home and your vehicle. You need a place to live and you need a method of transportation to be able to get to work.

Credit cards and student loans, while important, are the ones that should be last on your list of paying if you don’t have enough money for them all.

If you don’t have enough money for everything, make sure your mortgage payments are being covered before other bills are.

Advertise for a Roomie

You wouldn’t think twice about seeking out a roommate if you were in your early 20s, so why shouldn’t you do it now? You’ll be able to split bills in two and relieve a lot of the financial pressure you’re feeling.

It’s best if you find someone you already know and like who could use a place to stay. If not, you should check references carefully before allowing someone to move in with you.

Ask About a Forbearance

If your delinquent payments are caused by a job loss, you might be able to receive a forbearance while you’re looking for work. A forbearance could decrease your payments or stop them altogether for a while.

A lot of the bigger mortgage lenders take part in a forbearance program.

Find a Side Income

Whether you already have a full-time job or you’re looking for work, if you can’t pay your mortgage, you obviously need more money coming in.

Now’s the time to look at any hidden talents you have that might make you money. If you’re a great photographer, let people know you’re available for wedding photography. Tap into any talents you have and you might earn enough to keep your creditors happy.

If you can’t think of any freelance jobs you can do, you may have to bite the bullet and find lower-paying entry-level positions. It might not be where you envisioned yourself, but if it keeps you in your home, it’s worth it.