Make a complete picture of the debt
Collect the arrears balance, normal payment, interest, secured loans and any court dates. Work out an affordable household budget with a debt adviser rather than agreeing to a payment you cannot sustain. Keep a record of calls and proposals.
Ask your lender what arrangements it can consider in your circumstances. Options and eligibility vary; a lender must assess the situation, but no particular payment reduction or pause is guaranteed.
If court action has started
Read every notice promptly, get housing or legal advice and attend any hearing as advised. Tell the adviser about an intended sale and provide evidence, not just a verbal promise from a buyer. The procedure differs between England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Do not assume the lender will halt action because you have accepted an offer. Ask it to confirm any agreement in writing and check what deadlines still apply.
Check whether a sale actually clears the debt
Compare realistic sale proceeds after fees with the lender’s redemption figure and other secured debts. If there is a shortfall, discuss it with the lender and adviser before committing. A discount can reduce equity while debts and costs continue to accrue.
A reputable buyer cannot promise to remove a court deadline. Have your solicitor check whether completion is achievable and whether any lender consent is required.
Use independent support
MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice, Shelter and StepChange can help you find debt or housing advice. Use the official links in Sources & review rather than paying someone who claims guaranteed repossession prevention.
If you are at immediate risk of losing your accommodation, contact your local council’s housing team as well. The assistance available depends on your circumstances and nation.
Talk to your lender first
Before possession proceedings, lenders must consider requests to change how you pay and discuss alternatives. Court pre-action requirements and financial-conduct rules are separate; not every payment arrangement is available to every borrower.
Free, impartial help
- Citizens Advice
- StepChange Debt Charity
- Shelter's housing advice line
- MoneyHelper (government-backed)
Selling before repossession
Selling may be an option, but compare the likely proceeds with your mortgage balance, secured debts and fees. A shortfall may remain your responsibility. Speak to your lender and a free debt adviser before accepting a discounted offer.
Sources & review
Last reviewed:
Selling below the debt can leave a shortfall. No assumption that an auction or quick sale achieves a better financial outcome is supported here.
- GOV.UK — Before a repossession case goes to court
Lenders must consider requests to change payments and tell you about arrears and alternatives before possession proceedings.
- GOV.UK — How to sell a home
England and Wales: selling costs, paperwork, leasehold information, valuations, chains and legally binding exchange (sections 2–7, 16–17 and 21–22).
Review dates record our source check, not the date a rule took effect. Rules can change; check the linked guidance before acting. Legal processes differ across the UK.