Are we headed for one? The number of foreclosures in Massachusetts continues to inch upward. According to a Press Release from ForeclosuresMass.com, the rate of foreclosures during the month of May are 105% higher than they were in May 2005 and over 165% higher than they were in May 2004.

From Jeremy Shapiro, president and co-founder of ForeclosuresMass.com:

"It is clear that many homeowners, especially those with adjustable rate mortgages, are being pushed closer to the edge as interest rates rise at such a consistent clip. We may be witnessing a 'perfect storm' scenario where a flat real estate market, higher interest rates, rising energy costs and specialty loans are causing significant difficulty for thousands of Massachusetts property owners."

A Perfect Storm might sound a little dramatic. However, interest rates continue their creep upwards and it is expected that the Federal Reserve will announce a 25 basis point increase after their meeting on Thursday. It is expected that there will be a further increase in August.

And like all storms, the only way to protect yourself, your home and your family is to be prepared.