Foreclosures in the United States have climbed to their highest level in six years during the first quarter of this year, with nearly 119,000 properties receiving foreclosure filings, according to data from Attom as reported by The Wall Street Journal [1]. This marks a 26% increase compared to the same period last year and is the highest figure since the first quarter of 2020, when pandemic-related mortgage relief measures led to a sharp decline in foreclosures [1].
Analysts cited in the report emphasize that the current foreclosure rate reflects a normalization to pre-pandemic levels rather than a sign of widespread financial distress among borrowers [1]. However, homeowners are increasingly burdened by rising costs, particularly in home insurance and property taxes. Insurify data shows the average annual homeowners insurance bill rose to $2,948 in 2025, up 12% from 2024, while Attom data indicates average property tax burdens increased by 3% to $4,427 [1].
The report notes that while many homeowners benefit from low mortgage rates secured before 2022, those who purchased homes more recently at higher rates may be more vulnerable, especially in areas where home values have declined, potentially leaving some owners underwater [1]. Additionally, options for relief have diminished since the end of pandemic-era programs; for example, the Federal Housing Administration now limits loan modification to once every 24 months [1].
The average monthly payment for all outstanding mortgages reached a new high of $2,005 in the fourth quarter of last year, according to Realtor.com, with new homebuyers facing even higher payments due to elevated mortgage rates. The average monthly payment for new buyers surpassed $2,000 for the first time in September 2022 [1].
CONCLUSION
Foreclosures have returned to pre-pandemic levels, driven by rising insurance and property tax costs, with nearly 119,000 properties affected in the first quarter. While analysts see this as a normalization rather than a crisis, higher costs and fewer relief options could continue to pressure homeowners, especially recent buyers with higher mortgage rates.