Florida still leads the nation in foreclosure filings, although foreclosure activity continues to decline, according to data released Thursday by RealtyTrac, the leading source for comprehensive housing data.
Statewide, nearly 71,000 housing units saw a foreclosure filing in July, August and September, a decline of 7% from the previous quarter, but twice the national average.
Florida cities accounted for 8 of the top 10 highest foreclosure rates nationwide, in the third quarter. These cities include Orlando (one in every 134 housing units), Miami, Jacksonville, Tampa and Port St. Lucie.
A short sale is where a buyer buys your home for an amount short of (less than) the amount that you owe then bank and the bank accepts that amount to settle the loan. You only qualify for a short sale if you are late on your payments.