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

• Welcome to Freddie Mac's Anti-Predatory Lending Site

  We've all seen the aggressive marketing campaigns for refinance and home equity loans. They may seem tempting but they may not be the best financing alternative — they could even risk a family's financial health, a home's equity and the stability of a neighborhood. Knowledge is protection — learning about refinancing and the mortgage process puts the power to protect both home and family in the homeowner's hands.

  Don't Borrow Trouble is the first comprehensive consumer awareness campaign of its kind, combining public education and counseling services to help homeowners avoid predatory lending scams and foreclosures. Don't Borrow Trouble was pioneered in Boston by Mayor Thomas M. Menino and the Massachusetts Community & Banking Council (MCBC). Freddie Mac has expanded the campaign to communities nationwide.

• A Reliable Source of Information

  Don't Borrow Trouble uses a variety of creative promotional tactics to educate consumers about protecting their finances, and provides a toll-free number that consumers can call for assistance. The campaign's objective is to create a nation of educated homeowners who seek advice, understand their financial options, and know how to avoid the mortgage pitfalls that ultimately lead to foreclosure.

• Campaigns Collaborate for Success

  The campaign pulls together a strong coalition of experts who are ready and able to help consumers with their specific concerns:

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

  Read our Don't Borrow Trouble Campaign Overview [PDF 568K] to learn more about the important progress we've made over the years.

  How do I bring Don't Borrow Trouble to my community?