EL PASO, Texas -- House after house in the borderland area have gone up for sale.

"They don't want to lose their house but they're really in a bad situation, it's catching up to us, the economy is starting to hit El Paso and we're going to see a higher number of foreclosures,” said Anibal Olague, Border Fair Housing & Economic Justice Center.

The tough economic times not only affect the lower income family, it's also taken a punch at the middle and higher class.

“I'm having a hard time refinancing my house, the interest is kinda high and the way the economy is, no bank will refinance right now,” said Alex De La Cruz, West El Paso.

Border Fair Housing counselors said the main reason for foreclosures and mortgage default is that loans aren't fully explained to buyers and they're also granted a large loan. Olague said buyers should get the full details on their loans before signing the dotted line.

In order to avoid placing a for sale sign on De La Cruz’s home, he sought help just like housing counselors recommend.

"The problem is that people wait until the very end to ask for help and not when they're feeling that they're going to have a hard time making their payments,” Olague said.

Housing counselors can help you in several areas, such as lowering your loan interest and coming up with a payment plan.

Currently the Border Fair Housing is assisting about 30 families.

If you're having a hard time making your monthly mortgage payments or feel you may need some help, call the Border Fair Housing . You can get free counseling and they work with you one on one to assess your situation. The number is 351-2770.