Michigan is number 6 in the country on the RealtyTracs foreclosure list.   General Motors announced more layoffs this week.  If I had a magic wand, I would waive it all over our great state.  Consulting with distressed Ann Arbor home sellers is not pretty.  But I have come to realize that going to foreclosure is a choice. Doing a short sale is possibly a better choice.  Not all sellers are qualified to short their lenders.  What makes some sellers qualified to not pay back the lender?  You have to have a hardship that shows that you truly are not able to make the payments. Some examples of financial hardships are: 1.   Payment increase or mortgage adjustment 2.   Job loss 3.   Business failure 4.   Damage to property 5.   Death of a spouse 6.   Death of family members 7.   Severe illness 8.   Inheritance 9.   Divorce 10. Separation 11. Relocation 12. Military service 13. Insurance or tax increase 14. Reduced income 15. Too much debt 16. Incarceration If you or any Ann Arbor home owner you know has experienced or will be experiencing one or more of the above, and thus fear losing a primary residence, we want to help.  We have been closing short sales since 2006.  There are home owner resources.  Aligning with experts is important.  We refer many of our clients to a grant funded legal resource here in Ann Arbor.  You have a choice on who you consult.  We are certified distressed property experts on the Kathy Toth Team.  Again, we are here to help.  Call us 734-426-6669. Search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours...Free! Kathy Toth & Team: Ann Arbor Area Real Estate Experts www.KathyToth.com Keller Williams Realty