Foreclosure rates in Mesa County are highest in the state

Mesa County's still home to the highest foreclosure rates in the state, according to the latest numbers from the Colorado Division of Housing.

But, there could be a glimmer of hope, thanks to some local assistance programs.

The latest numbers show Mesa County is still struggling with foreclosure numbers, but not as much as years past.

"Definitely state-wide the foreclosure statistics show some form of recovery happening around foreclosures; that still holds true here in Mesa County," said Amy Case of the Grand Junction Housing Authority.

Foreclosure numbers for Mesa County in November of last year are significantly less than the same month the year before, in 2011. Amy Case says assistance programs are helping that.

"We have three full-time, certified foreclosure intervention counselors that will work one on one with these families. They worked with 469 families last year, said Case.

Even if you don't live in Grand Junction, assistance is available. Counselors travel to Delta, Rifle and Glenwood Springs to help struggling homeowners.

"If families that are struggling with their mortgages work with our counselors, and let us work with their lenders, generally about 90% of the time we can help them avoid foreclosure." said Case.

If you would like some assistance, call the foreclosure hotline at 1-877-601-HOPE to schedule an appointment.