Workshops in Merced, Tracy

Homeowners concerned about their mortgages will have two opportunities next week to attend foreclosure prevention workshops.

The free events will offer confidential advice from housing counselors who have been certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Representatives from mortgage companies also are expected to attend to talk to their clients about possible options, including loan modifications.

The first event will be 3 to 8 p.m. Aug. 22 at Merced City Hall, 678 W. 18th St.

The second will be 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 23 at Tracy City Hall, 333 Civic Center Plaza.

Homeowners from throughout the Northern San Joaquin Valley are invited to attend either event.

To get the most out of the event, homeowners are encouraged to bring all mortgage documents and relevant financial data.

To help organize their financial information, homeowners can complete the Housing Monthly Budget Worksheet and the Housing Intake Assistance Form posted online at www.modbee.com/housing. The site also offers advice for preventing foreclosure.

This story was originally published August 13, 2008 at 1:54 AM with the headline "Workshops in Merced, Tracy."