Marion County Foreclosure Data

Ask Beth: Finding Marion County Foreclosure Data

Dear Beth:

I’m wondering if you have some information I need. With the current economic climate, I’ve been curious how much foreclosure rates have increased. Does the Clerk’s office track this information? --Curious Citizen


Hi Curious Citizen! The Clerk’s office does track the information you are requesting. The legal process to begin foreclosure proceedings starts in our office in the civil filing division. As the record-keeper for the courts, our office is required to send notice to the homeowner that is facing foreclosure.

Because we make the first official contact with homeowners through the foreclosure notice, I felt it was important that we let them know there is still time to get help. With every notice, we also include a flyer promoting the counseling efforts of the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network.

The Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network sponsors a toll-free hotline
(1-877-GET-HOPE) to help Hoosier homeowners facing foreclosure. The hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. The free foreclosure prevention counseling is completely confidential. You can also learn more by visiting their Web site – www.1877GETHOPE.org.

Back to your question, our Web site provides yearly totals for the foreclosure filings in Marion County. Go to www.indy.gov/clerk, click ‘Court Records & Filings’ in the top tool bar and then select ‘Mortgage Foreclosure.’ This page not only includes foreclosure data but also information on the Sheriff’s real estate sales.

Unfortunately, mortgage foreclosures are poised to become an even larger issue for our community, state and country. When foreclosure is a possibility, it is a very scary time for homeowners. If you or someone you is struggling to meet your mortgage payment, I would encourage you to seek counseling from IFPN or other trustworthy, not-for-profit organizations. There is help available – you are not on your own.

Best Wishes,
Beth


Note to Readers: “Ask Beth” is a monthly column written by Marion County Clerk Beth White and aimed at educating the public about the services provided by her office. For more information, visit www.indy.gov/clerk or call (317) 327-4740.