Foreclosure filings across the United States have reached their highest level in nearly seven years, with a national foreclosure start rate of 0.24% by early 2026. However, the D.C. area has remained relatively stable, despite a 12.9% increase in foreclosure filings from last year.

Local Foreclosure Trends

The D.C. area recorded 959 active foreclosure filings early this year, up from 849 at the same time last year. However, foreclosure activity in D.C. dropped 6.82% compared to the previous quarter, and is still 16.31% higher than a year ago. The District’s strong job market and support programs have helped many families remain in their homes.

Abandoned homes caught in foreclosure, sometimes called “zombie” foreclosures, have increased slightly in D.C. but remain rare, making up just a small part of the local housing market. The District’s Foreclosure Mediation Program gives homeowners a chance to meet with lenders and discuss options such as loan modifications and repayment plans. Since 2011, 70% of mediations have resulted in homeowners keeping their homes.

Support for Homeowners

Housing counseling and legal support are available through the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking. Residents can also call hotlines at (202) 265-2255 and (855) 449-2255 for advice and support. Officials urge people to watch out for scams and to report suspicious offers to local authorities.

Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.