RIP-OFF ALERT: In most states, there are public records of who is falling behind on a mortgage. That's created an opportunity for swindlers who show up at your doorstep with a "personalized foreclosure rescue package" for you.

Likewise, we've all seen the "stop foreclosure now" signs on the side of the road. The punch-line in both cases is that you have to pay money upfront to stop the foreclosure. The average amount these swindlers steal from people is around $3,000, according to a recent New York Times report.

Meanwhile, there are some legitimate parallel tracks you can explore if you're facing foreclosure. These include seeking free counseling from a local affiliate of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling or going through the HOPE NOW Alliance. Be forewarned that Clark thinks the latter is a "political puff piece"; he'd prefer you go with the former option.

Lastly, you can try contacting your lender directly if you're in dire straits. It's surprising how many people won't talk to their lender when they get in trouble. Bad move.