In response to a rise in foreclosure filings, Chester County, Pennsylvania, has established an “opt-in” foreclosure conciliation program. The program was announced in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, Doc. No. 25-145, published on February 1, 2025, and will take effect on March 3, 2025.

Under this initiative, conciliation is available for owner-occupied residential mortgage foreclosures. Defendants served with an Urgent Notice alongside the foreclosure complaint will be advised of the program and must contact Housing Opportunities, Inc. to schedule a meeting with a housing counselor. The counselor will assess eligibility for the conciliation program. If deemed eligible, the defendant must execute and file a Certificate of Participation within 30 days of service. Failure to timely file the certificate will require leave of court to participate in the program.

For more information, refer to the official Pennsylvania Bulletin announcement attached hereto. Mercer County PA Bulletin