The federal CARES Act provided much-needed relief for certain borrowers who could not make their monthly mortgage payments. The Act allowed borrowers who were experiencing a financial hardship due to COVID–19 to pause mortgage payments for up to 12 months. These forbearance plans however only covered federally backed mortgages (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, USDA, VA) and many are scheduled to expire in the next few months. While some homeowners with private loans were offered help, the plans are often shorter and with fewer affordable repayment options.