Foreclosure prevention through mediation is one of the most effective and underused tools available to homeowners facing financial stress. At the Dispute Resolution Center of King County (KCDRC), mediation helps residents navigate tough conversations with lenders, resolve misunderstandings, and find alternatives before foreclosure becomes a reality.
This work is closely tied to the HOMES program—Homeowners’ Outreach, Mentoring, and Education Services—which helps older adults, veterans, and people with disabilities apply for King County’s property tax exemption. Together, these services provide meaningful support to residents at risk of housing instability.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where a neutral third party helps people have structured conversations and work toward agreements. At KCDRC, our trained mediators don’t take sides or offer legal advice. Instead, they create space for understanding, problem-solving, and clarity during difficult moments.
In the context of housing, this can mean facilitating conversations between:
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Homeowners and mortgage servicers
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Family members navigating shared property decisions
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Homeowners and county officials or financial counselors
How Mediation Helps Prevent Foreclosure
When homeowners fall behind on payments or struggle with taxes, communication often breaks down. Mediation brings everyone to the table and offers a chance to:
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Clarify the situation
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Identify options such as payment plans, tax relief, or temporary adjustments
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Connect with support resources, including legal aid and financial counseling
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Rebuild trust and reduce emotional strain
Mediation can be especially effective when paired with programs like HOMES (Homeowners’ Outreach, Mentoring, and Education Services), which helps eligible residents apply for King County’s property tax exemption. By addressing both the financial and relational sides of housing stress, residents are more likely to find long-term stability.
Real-Life Outcomes
While every situation is different, here are a few common outcomes of housing-related mediation at KCDRC:
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Agreement on a new repayment timeline
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Coordination of property tax exemption documentation
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Family agreement on shared ownership or financial responsibilities
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Referrals to housing counselors or attorneys when needed
How to Access Help
If you or someone you know is at risk of foreclosure or struggling with housing stress, reach out early. The sooner mediation begins; the more options are typically available.
You can:
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Attend a HOMES workshop to learn about tax exemptions
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Request a mediation session through KCDRC
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Join an Information Hub meeting to explore housing resources
You don’t have to face foreclosure alone. Mediation can be the first step toward clarity, stability, and peace of mind.