The Simple Facts can be downloaded and printed, so you can use them when you speak to bankers or services about which options you should consider. You'll get descriptions of common types of mortgages and workouts, reasons people choose or don't choose specific alternatives, a basic discussion of risk and a list of questions you should always ask.

Don't leave your biggest financial decisions up to others; educate yourself with the facts and evaluate what is best for you. While mortgage bankers are experts in the real estate finance field, you are the one who has to live with the loan—not the real estate agent, the broker or the servicer. Use The Simple Facts to research the alternative that fits your budget and your future plans the best. Armed with the facts, talk with a lender about your options.