Here's a new source of help if you're worried about losing your home

The National Foundation for Credit Counseling has launched a new Homeowner Crisis Resource Center offering a helping hand for homeowners who are having difficulty making their mortgage payments. There's a "mortgage reality check" quiz to help you determine how serious your problems are and numerous resources, including referral information for housing counselors and alternatives to foreclosure.

My advice is to be proactive. Don't wait until you get a foreclosure notice before doing something about your situation. If you know you can't afford your mortgage - or won't be able to when your adjustable rate loan resets - talk to a housing counselor now about your options.

[St. Petersburg Times art by Steve Madden]