If there is one word that is quickly becoming the most dreaded word we’ve seen or heard in the last 20 days, it would be—“update”. Nearly every hour brings a new update, a shift in priorities and a change in yesterday’s plans. At Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, we want you to know we get it. And we are committed to this partnership and will do what we can to guide you through this pandemic crisis our world is experiencing.
Among the many questions you are considering at this time, we understand that your home is paramount. At Habitat, we pledge to provide you with the most current information we have available. Please take your time and read through the answers to the question below.
Q: Do I have to pay my mortgage during this crisis?
A: Short answer is, yes. A lot of information is being circulated in the media, published on the internet and spread on social media in reference to mortgage payments. This information is often conflicting, confusing and at times inaccurate. Remember, you have a 0% interest mortgage and much of this information does not apply to your loan.
First, if you’re having difficulties making your mortgage payment due to a loss of income, directly related to COVID-19 closures, reduced work hours, or mandatory quarantines, please call the Homeowner Hotline at (727) 209-2196 to discuss your situation and potential options. Your situation is unique to you, so please contact us, rather than rely on advice from others.
Secondly, there has yet to be a Florida specific statewide order or any local orders suspending mortgage payments or mandating mortgage forbearance. Mortgage payments must be made. You may have seen or read reports of other communities suspending rent/mortgage payments and even utilities payments, however this has not been ordered anywhere in Florida and we do not anticipate such an order to be forthcoming.
The Federal Government has instituted regulations surrounding mortgage forbearances, however it only impacts federally backed mortgages or mortgages obtained through federally owned lenders, which does not cover your Habitat mortgage. All of our Habitat homeowner’s circumstances and situations will be different and treated on a case by case basis.
Note that Habitat is closely monitoring local, state and federal regulations and will answer any of your questions to the best of our abilities. We are also actively engaged in locating community resources to assist you in this crisis.
Know that we are working on a daily basis, in the most effective ways possible, to support the needs of homeowners impacted by COVID-19.
For the most recent affiliate updates and a list of local resources, please continue to check our resources pages below:
Homeowner Hotline: (727) 209-2196
