You may be aware that if you don't pay your mortgage amount on time your house may be at risk. It doesn't mean that if you miss one payment you will be asked to leave the house. In 2007, nearly 27,100 homes were repossessed by mortgage lenders. Some of the reasons to avoid repossession are as follows:

As soon as you start meeting repayment problems, speak to your mortgage lender. Try to switch from repayment mortgage to an interest-only mortgage. Speak to specialist organizations like Citizens advice, Consumer Credit Counseling service or National Debt line, who can provide you solutions regarding debt and credit problems. Do get a quick personal finance check up to see how well you are doing and what steps you can take next to improve your position. Many people may wish to cash in your misfortune. Do read the papers carefully before signing any agreement. Always keep paying something to your mortgage lender if not full amount. As you're paying something, chances of negotiating a better deal can happen. Check if you have any mortgage protection insurance and can make a claim on it. You can raise some money by letting out your property or rent somewhere cheaper. Before renting or Selling your property, do get lender’s permission. If you want to cut your losses, better sell your home yourself rather than abandoning it to your mortgage lender. Don't hand over the keys. You will be responsible for repayments and building insurance until the property is sold.