07/28/2026
Hi! I’m Josephine, the Queen of Real Estate. I’ve been proudly licensed in the real estate industry for over 42 years, helping families protect their homes and build wealth.
Today I want to share something very important that could help you avoid a serious financial problem.
A major mortgage loan servicer has reported a sharp rise in foreclosure activity, and one of the biggest reasons is a lack of awareness about escrow accounts.
So, what is an escrow account?
It’s an account where your mortgage lender collects money each month for your property taxes, homeowners insurance, and, if required, private mortgage insurance. The lender then pays those bills on your behalf when they come due.
Here’s what’s happening.
Those expenses don’t stay the same. In California, your property taxes can increase each year, and homeowners insurance premiums have risen dramatically in many areas. When those costs go up, your lender adjusts your monthly mortgage payment to make sure there’s enough money in your escrow account.
Unfortunately, many homeowners have their payments set up on automatic withdrawal and assume everything is fine. They don’t realize their payment has increased because they never opened the notices their lender mailed them. Before they know it, they’re behind on their mortgage, the missed payments add up, and catching up becomes extremely difficult.
So here’s my most important piece of advice:
Open your mail. Read it every month.
If you discover your payment has changed, address it immediately.
And if you’ve already fallen behind, don’t lose hope.
Many lenders have options available, such as loan modifications or repayment plans that allow you to catch up over time with smaller additional payments. But you’ll never know what’s available unless you contact your lender.
So remember:
Number one: Call your lender.
Number two: If you still need help, call a qualified real estate or mortgage professional.
Or number three: Call us.
Heritage Mtg Inc
DRE #01322890
909-606-8107
Or contact:
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate – The Heritage Group
DRE #01508076
800-401-5626
We’ll do everything in our power to help guide you through your options.
And of course, you’re always welcome to call me personally.
I’m Josephine, the Queen of Real Estate.
DRE #00866142
909-680-1699
Remember… open your mail, read it every month, and if you have questions, ask for help early. It could make all the difference.