I have been contacted, after 5 years, for the recovery of #23,610.62. I gave back the keys of my flat following a spate of burglaries to my flat - I was burgled 6 times in 2 years by a tenant in another flat who the landlord would not evict even though he was a known drug addict (he was not there when I bought my flat) I was a single parent with a goodish job and a 8 year old daughter. The stress got too much and I had a mini nervous breakdown, quit my job, sold my car and moved into a council flat and started a diploma at University. Nationwide wrote to me in 1997 and I explained my circumstances, ie, I was a student, no savings and on income support. They wrote back not to worry they would review my case again in a year (my bank account is also with Nationwide so I was not hiding) I did not hear from them until 2 June 2000 when Eversheds the solicitors wrote requesting the shortfall. I have contacted them and they inform my that Nationwide are not in the policy of blacklisting people and are looking for a lump sum settlement in the region of #7,000 to #8,000 to write off the debt and close the file.(posted 8725 days ago)I now have a new partner and would like to get a mortgage and therefore it is in my best interests to get this paid. However, I already have loans and, although I am now working, I do not have any savings. I have heard that I should be able to reduce the amount and get them to accept a lower sum. Is this true? Any tips on how? I am quite naive to this game and would welcome any helpful suggestions.