How To Sell Your House while in Pre-Foreclosure in Des Moines

What Is Pre-Foreclosure?

Pre-foreclosure begins after a homeowner misses a few mortgage payments—usually 90 days or more. At this point, the lender files a notice of default or a lis pendens, which is the legal warning that foreclosure is approaching.

However, the home hasn’t been taken yet. You still legally own it and have the chance to catch up or sell before it goes to auction.

How to Tell If You’re in Pre-Foreclosure

Here are signs you’re in pre-foreclosure or heading that way:

• You’ve missed multiple mortgage payments
• You’ve received default notices from your lender
• You’re getting calls or letters from your bank or mortgage company
• A lis pendens has been filed with the county

If you’re unsure, you can call your lender or check public records to verify your property’s status.

Options to Keep Your House in Des Moines, Iowa

If you want to stay in your home, here are some possible solutions to explore:

1. Loan Modification

You may be able to negotiate new terms with your lender—such as lowering the interest rate, extending the loan, or adding missed payments to the back end of the mortgage.

2. Forbearance Agreement

This temporarily pauses your mortgage payments for a set period. It won’t erase the debt, but it gives you breathing room to get back on track.

3. Refinance (If You Qualify)

If your credit hasn’t dropped too far yet and you have enough equity, refinancing into a new loan might help reduce monthly payments.

4. Iowa Mortgage Help Program

Check with the Iowa Finance Authority or local nonprofit housing agencies. They may offer resources or financial assistance for homeowners at risk of foreclosure.

5. Rent Out the Property

If you can move elsewhere affordably and rent out the home, the rental income might cover or exceed your mortgage payments.

When It Makes Sense to Sell the House

Sometimes, trying to save the house just isn’t realistic—especially if:

• You’re already months behind and can’t catch up
• The house needs repairs you can’t afford
• You’ve gone through a divorce, job loss, or major life change
• The stress is affecting your health or well-being

Selling the house before foreclosure hits allows you to protect your credit, walk away with some equity, and avoid having a foreclosure on your record—which can impact future housing, loans, and employment for years.

Contact us today to get your offer!

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Why Sell to DSM Swift Home Buyers?

If you’re in pre-foreclosure and need a fast, no-hassle solution, DSM Swift Home Buyers is here to help.

We buy houses in any condition across Des Moines—as-is, no repairs, no showings, and no commissions. We’ll make you a fair cash offer and can close in as little as 7 days, which is often fast enough to stop the foreclosure process entirely.

Here’s why sellers trust us:

✅ We buy homes as-is—even with missed payments or legal notices
✅ We work fast—often closing in 2-4 weeks
✅ We pay all closing costs
✅ No agent fees or commissions
✅ We’re local and experienced in helping Des Moines homeowners in tough spots

Even if you’re unsure whether selling is the right move, we’ll give you honest guidance—and if we’re not the right fit, we’ll point you to someone who is.