Often times when I consult with people I am trying to create a plan that saves thier home.  In our area (Naples, FL) homes are often upside down – the owners owe more than the house is worth.  One way of saving a home in this situation is to strip the second mortgage so that it is discharged along with the other unsecured debts.  Doing this can sometimes make it prudent to keep a home that I would normally recommend be surrendered in a bankruptcy.