Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Eric and Rachel Foster found themselves navigating a difficult period that tested their resilience. As a medical laboratory scientist, Eric was an essential worker throughout the pandemic, often working overtime to cover staff shortages due to illness. At the same time, the couple was facing mounting medical bills from a chronic disability shared by Rachel and two of their three children, plus multiple college tuition payments and the pressures of everyday expenses. “Money was tight,” says Eric. “We paid what bills we could and were able to defer some payments, but then they eventually came in.” In 2023, Eric lost his job and faced months of unemployment. Despite their best efforts to manage their finances, they fell behind on their mortgage and the bank took ownership of their home.
As the foreclosure process unfolded, Eric and Rachel experienced a mix of emotions. They were shocked to find their home listed online, which left them feeling mortified and terrified. Strangers knocked on their door, seeking to view the property, adding to their stress. “My wife’s anxiety went through the roof,” says Eric. Overwhelmed by notices and communications, they struggled to keep up, hoping for a resolution that felt just out of reach.
The couple has deep roots in the community. Eric and Rachel originally rented the home from Rachel’s parents starting in 2008, but during the financial crisis her parents were on the verge of losing the home to foreclosure. Shortly thereafter, Eric and Rachel bought it, keeping the property in the family. In the 16 years they’ve lived in the home, it became more than just a structure; it was a cherished space where they built their lives together, raised and homeschooled their children, and created countless memories. They had invested time and love into renovations, making the home truly theirs. They were determined to only let go of the home if it was on their own terms, and for now they wanted to stay.
In their search for solutions, Rachel took the initiative to explore options online. “My wife went into overdrive looking for anything we could do,” explains Eric. “One day she was googling like mad and came across BlueHub SUN.” After thorough research, they reached out for assistance. Over six months, they worked with the SUN team to get their paperwork together, negotiate the repurchase of their home from the bank, and secure a new, affordable mortgage. With support from SUN, they were able to avoid eviction and keep their home in the family.
Reflecting on their journey, Eric and Rachel emphasized the importance of seeking help early and being proactive, encouraging others in similar situations to advocate for themselves. “The squeaky wheel gets the grease,” said Rachel.
The couple’s fight to keep their home was not just about preserving a physical space; it was about safeguarding their family’s history and future. With the right support, they turned a challenging situation into a hopeful new chapter, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, there is always a way forward.
