The number of homes being added to foreclosure listings in Texas is still increasing despite relief efforts by the Obama administration. According to Texas company Foreclosure Listing Service Inc., 18 of the 19 large counties being monitored increased in foreclosures listed for the April auction, in comparison to the number of properties in foreclosure listings for auctions in April 2008.

The number of individuals who lost their jobs in Michigan last February went up to 12 percent, the highest jobless rate since 1984.

Foreclosed homes rate in the United States increased by 3.3 percent for the fourth quarter of last year, and 1.26 percent from 2007, representing 1.5 million distressed properties.

Antiquated laws related to foreclosed homes have been worsening the difficulties of Americans facing foreclosures, according to the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC). The center claims that more than 30 states have fast-track procedures to turn delinquent properties into foreclosed homes without passing through the courts.

More and more renters across the state of New York are being forced out of foreclosed homes. One of these is Lisa Brown, a 44-year-old single mother of three young girls on Long Island, who has been paying her rent faithfully for the last six months, but who was suddenly given notice to vacate her place within ten days because the property has been foreclosed.

Hispanic Americans and African Americans are experiencing the brunt of the economic recession as indicated by the growing unemployment rate and foreclosed homes in states densely populated by minorities.

Federal Reserve Chairperson Ben Bernanke said in an interview aired on CBS’ television newsmagazine “60 Minutes” that government officials have been working to set the framework for economic recovery and to prevent another depression. He admitted though that there are many obstacles to overcome, such as the millions of foreclosed homes, and that complete recovery from the crisis will take time.

As more than 100 houses in the Chicago area become foreclosed homes everyday, analysts and state officials have been blaming various groups for continued Illinois foreclosures. But they are not alone, across the country, various sectors have been blaming each other for the millions of foreclosed homes that have battered the housing market and the national economy.

Distressed borrowers in New York are being encouraged by various efforts to help them avoid being added to the thousands of foreclosed homes in their state. They are being helped by their state government, several nonprofits and President Barack Obama’s foreclosure program.

Are you finding it hard to look for mortgage loans during these times of foreclosures? Have the loan requirements become too stiff for you?