Don't Borrow Trouble is a national anti-predatory lending and foreclosure avoidance campaign that combines education and empowerment – teaching consumers to protect their homes and finances.

A printable version of the "Don't Borrow Trouble Campaign Overview" can be downloaded here. [PDF 568K]

• Borrowers Face Tough Financial Choices

  With so many loan options – from purchase and refinance loans to second liens and home equity loans – it's no wonder consumers find it difficult to make the right choices. When those "too good to be true" loans contain hidden fees or unfair terms, the borrowers ultimately pay the price, sometimes at the cost of losing their homes.

• Don't Borrow Trouble Offers Solutions

  Through Don't Borrow Trouble, we are working to curtail predatory lending by creating a nation of educated homeowners who seek assistance and advice, understand their financial options, and know how to avoid mortgage pitfalls that can lead to foreclosure.

  Don't Borrow Trouble was pioneered in Boston by Mayor Thomas M. Menino and the Massachusetts Community and Banking Council. Since 2000, Freddie Mac has been expanding the campaign nationwide. The campaign has reached more than 350,000 consumers through 50 local campaigns in 31 states and the District of Columbia. Today, Don't Borrow Trouble has a reputation for success that continues to grow in communities nationwide.

• Local Campaigns Create Success in Communities

  Through local Don't Borrow Trouble campaigns, consumers have a reliable source of information, guidance, and support – right in their own community. Each campaign uses a variety of promotional tactics to reach consumers and provides a toll-free number that consumers can call for assistance.

  In each Don't Borrow Trouble locality, there's a strong coalition of experts ready and able to help consumers with their specific concerns:

  • Housing counselors work with consumers looking to purchase or refinance their homes.
  • Foreclosure prevention specialists assist those having difficulty making their mortgage payments.
  • Credit counselors help those overburdened with debt.
  • Attorneys provide legal assistance or advice.

• Learn More Today

  Predatory lending and foreclosure have become major problems in too many communities across the country. Learn more about these issues and read our Don't Borrow Trouble Campaign Overview [PDF 568K] to learn more about the important progress we’ve made over the years.