MADISON, Wis. -- Those who are facing foreclosure often say the fear is the worst part -- not knowing what the next steps are, if they'll be able to bail themselves out, or sometimes worse -- if they'll ever own a home again.

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Some of those up against a financial wall said they often feel that they don't know what options they may have left, WISC-TV reported.

Neil Mathweg, a Sun Prairie Realtor for Century 21, specializes in short sales, an option he said is a viable way to minimize damage to your credit, if you're facing foreclosure.

"If you don't see your situation getting any better, I would definitely take this route, because it is a good route to get out of your house," Mathweg said. "You can always buy another house down the road. If you go through foreclosure, it's going to be very tough."

Compared to two years ago, Mathweg said he's seen the number of short sales skyrocket.

In a short sale, three parties are involved: the seller, the buyer, and the seller's lender.

The seller typically opts to sell the house at a price that will move the home quickly, and it's called a short sale because the price is lower than what is left on the seller's loan. Once the seller agrees to the buyer's offer, the lender must approve that offer since he or she will be taking a loss, WISC-TV reported.

"Everybody sits on hold until that offer gets approved by the bank; once it's approved by the bank we go to closing," said Mathweg.

Below is a list of resources for homeowners facing foreclosure:

Green Path Debt Solutions:
888-776-6735

Hope Hotline:
888-995-HOPE

Dane County Housing Authority
608-224-3636