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Rents, mortgage payments due amid financial hardship

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Posted at 4:34 PM, Apr 01, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-01 20:21:14-04

SAN DIEGO — SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — Rents and mortgage payments were due April 1 for residents across San Diego County amid coronavirus related financial hardships.

There is currently a moratorium on evictions in California, and the federal government has banned foreclosures for most mortgages for the next 60 days. Those who cannot make the payments must document financial hardship to claim the exceptions.

The virus has caused San Diego retailers, restaurants and hotels to shutter, leaving upwards of 350,000 San Diegans without work.

RELATED: San Diego food, retail workers could see nation's highest rent burden

Still, while there may not be late fees, the rents and mortgage payments will be due in full eventually.

"We are encouraging people to pay what they can and then make a payment plan for the rest," said Kendra Bork, a property manager who heads the Southern California Rental Housing Association.

Bork said she has not seen a big problem with tenants making rent this month but fears it could get worse in May.

RELATED: Solana Beach Landlord waives April rent for small businesses

"if we aren't able to find a solution to get back to work i think it is going to become a bigger issue," she said.

Many car companies have offered forbearance during this time, and San Diego Gas & Electric is not cutting anyone's power because of coronavirus related hardships. Still, housing can take upwards of 50 percent of a household's monthly income, making it the biggest bill most people face.

RELATED: City Council puts stop on evictions during coronavirus pandemic

George Braudaway, who manages about 800 units in the South Bay, said about 20 people have contacted him to say they can't afford the rent.

"People can't pay the rent, everybody is scared," Braudaway said. "If you can't pay it, call us, let us help you we will make arrangements."