What Happens If You Miss Mortgage Payments in Michigan
What Really Happens When You Start Falling Behind on Your Mortgage in Michigan
You're Not Alone — And You’re Not Out of Options
Falling behind on your mortgage can feel overwhelming — but it’s more common than you might think, especially in Michigan’s unpredictable economy.
Whether it's job loss, unexpected expenses, or a medical emergency, missing payments doesn’t make you a failure.
It just means you need a clear understanding of what’s ahead — and what you can still do to protect yourself, your credit, and your peace of mind.
What Happens When You Miss a Mortgage Payment in Michigan?
Your mortgage is typically due on the 1st of the month, with a grace period that extends to the 15th.
But once that window closes, here’s what to expect:
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Day 16–30: A late fee is added, usually 3%–6% of the payment.
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Day 30: Your loan is reported as delinquent to credit bureaus — your credit score takes a hit.
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Day 60–89: The lender begins reaching out more aggressively; some offer temporary workout plans.
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Day 90+: The loan is considered in default, and foreclosure proceedings may begin soon after.
How Many Payments Can You Miss Before Foreclosure Starts in Michigan?
In Michigan, most lenders start the foreclosure process after 90 days (three missed payments) — but that doesn’t mean you’re safe until then. Every missed month makes the situation more difficult:
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Penalties and fees keep adding up.
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Your credit keeps dropping.
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The risk of losing your home increases dramatically.
Important: Michigan is a non-judicial foreclosure state, meaning your lender doesn’t have to take you to court.
That means once the process starts, it moves fast — typically just a few months before the sheriff’s sale.
What Does the Foreclosure Timeline Look Like in Michigan?
Here’s a simplified version of how foreclosure plays out in Michigan:
| Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 30 Days Late | Loan is marked delinquent on credit report |
| 60 Days Late | Collection attempts intensify |
| 90 Days Late | Pre-foreclosure notice sent |
| Day 120+ | Sheriff’s sale notice published |
| Day 150+ | Sheriff’s sale occurs |
| 6-Month Redemption | After the sale, you may have up to 6 months to vacate or redeem the home by paying off the debt |
Selling to Avoid Foreclosure in Michigan? Let Me Make It Easy.
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How This Affects Your Credit and Future Housing Options
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A 30-day late payment drops your score by 60–100 points
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A foreclosure stays on your report for 7 years
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Future home loans may be denied or come with sky-high interest rates
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Landlords and credit card companies may reject you
If you're still early in the process, you have a chance to protect your financial future — but the window is closing.
What Can You Do Right Now?
If you're behind on payments, here's what you can do today:
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Contact your lender and ask about forbearance or repayment plans
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Talk to a HUD-certified housing counselor
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Avoid scams promising miracle solutions
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If you’re out of options — consider selling before foreclosure damages your credit further
Selling your house now can stop the foreclosure, settle your debt, and let you walk away with your dignity (and possibly some cash).
For a full breakdown of your options when you're behind on your mortgage, visit this comprehensive guide.
"When you mentioned that you would give us an offer within 24 hours and then close quickly I didn’t really believe that we would have the house sold in only 2 weeks. I’m glad I found you.”
Michelle L. - Michigan
Need to Sell Fast in Michigan to Avoid Foreclosure?
At Dennis Buys Houses, we help Michigan homeowners avoid foreclosure by buying houses fast, for cash, as-is.
No agents. No repairs. No waiting.
We’ll listen to your situation and tell you what makes the most sense — even if that means not selling to us.
You deserve a clear, honest path forward.
👉 Click the button below to discuss your options.
Are You Trying to Understand Your Options?
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We Help Michigan Families Navigate These Situations Every Day
At Dennis Buys Houses, we’re not just cash buyers — we’re trusted problem-solvers who help Michigan families find real answers to their housing challenges.
Since 2004, we've been helping homeowners across Michigan sell their properties quickly and easily—without the stress of agents, repairs, or hidden fees.
We’re a family-owned, local business with deep roots in the community. Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds and hundreds of homeowners in situations just like yours—whether they’re dealing with delinquent property taxes, foreclosure, or simply needing a fresh start.
If you're dealing with a situation and don’t know where to turn, we’re here to help.
Start here:
- Learn how we buy houses in Michigan: How It Works
- See what makes us different: Why Choose Us
- Ready to get a cash offer? Contact Us Today
No pressure. No judgment. Just real help when you need it.
See why so many people recommend us...
“Mr. Fassett – thank you for working with us to buy my Mom’s home after she passed away. When you mentioned that you would give us an offer within 24 hours and then close quickly I didn’t really believe that we would have the house sold in only 2 weeks. I’m glad I found you.”
Michelle L. - Michigan
“Thanks for buying my Mother’s home. It was a big help that you were able to buy it without us having to clean it out and get it ready to sell. My mother had accumulated lots of stuff and after the stress of her long illness I was exhausted and I dreaded dealing with all of it. I also liked it that you gave me a very fair price for the home. I’m on a fixed income and that really helped a lot.”
Henry G. - Michigan
“Dennis – thank you for helping us with our Mom’s home. This was a very traumatic experience for us, and we appreciated your patience with all the emotions we experienced during the process. You were really patient and understanding with us during the sale process, and we’re sure that Mom’s home will be in good hands. God Bless.”
Claudia and Nancy M. - Michigan
Additional Resources:
Refinance or Home Equity Options
What to Do If You Can’t Afford Your Home
When Is It Too Late to Stop Foreclosure?
How to Sell Your Vacant House in Michigan
What Happens When a House Sits Vacant in Michigan?
Vacant vs. Unoccupied Homes: What Michigan Homeowners Need to Know
Or call or text Dennis with your questions: (734) 224-5977
Frequently Asked Questions
Missed Mortgage Payments in Michigan
How many mortgage payments can I miss before foreclosure starts in Michigan?
In most cases, lenders begin the foreclosure process after three missed payments (around 90 days late). However, penalties and credit damage begin after just one missed payment, so it’s best to act quickly.
What happens if I’m only one month behind on my mortgage?
If you're 30 days late, your loan is considered delinquent and you’ll likely be charged a late fee. Your credit score may also drop significantly once the delinquency is reported. You’re still early enough in the process to explore repayment options — or sell before more damage occurs.
When is a mortgage payment considered late on a credit report?
Most lenders report a missed mortgage payment to credit bureaus once it’s 30 days past due. Even if you catch up a few days later, the late mark can remain on your credit for up to 7 years.
Can I sell my house in Michigan if I’m behind on my mortgage?
Yes, and in many cases, selling before foreclosure is the best option. A direct cash sale can stop the foreclosure process, satisfy your debt, and help protect your credit. We can help you do that quickly and discreetly.
Will I lose my house after one missed mortgage payment in Michigan?
No — but the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to recover. Foreclosure typically doesn’t begin until after 90 days, but missed payments add late fees, stress, and credit damage fast.
Is Michigan a judicial or non-judicial foreclosure state?
Michigan primarily uses a non-judicial foreclosure process, meaning your lender doesn’t have to take you to court. Once they publish a notice of foreclosure and schedule a sheriff’s sale, you may have limited time to act.
Can I stop foreclosure in Michigan once it’s started?
In many cases, yes — if you act fast. You might be able to reinstate the loan, negotiate with your lender, or sell your home before the auction. Learn how to stop foreclosure in Michigan here
What if I just need more time to catch up?
You may qualify for a loan modification, forbearance, or repayment plan, but lenders don’t always approve these options — especially if you're more than 90 days behind. Selling quickly may give you more control over the outcome.
What’s the redemption period after foreclosure in Michigan?
After the sheriff’s sale, Michigan law provides a 6-month redemption period, during which you can reclaim the property by paying off the total debt. However, this doesn’t stop the clock — it only delays eviction.
What happens if I let the house go to foreclosure?
If your home is foreclosed:
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You’ll likely be evicted.
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Your credit score may drop by 100–160 points.
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You could still owe a deficiency judgment if the sale doesn’t cover your debt.
Avoiding foreclosure by selling may help you walk away with fewer long-term consequences.
Know Someone Who Needs to Sell Fast? We Pay Referral Fees.
Talk to Dennis Now – (734) 224-5977