It's the numbers no one can ignore -- foreclosures posted for auction Tuesday at the Travis County Courthouse

On this first Tuesday of the month, 396 properties are posted for foreclosure in Travis County. That's up 62 percent from August of last year according to Foreclosure Listing Services, Inc.

"The foreclosures for the last seven years have been extremely high, but basically it appears at least that they have peaked at these very high numbers," said George Roddy, company founder.

Roddy says the federal bailout signed into law last week will help ensure the worst is over. It gives cities nearly $4 billion in grants to buy and repair foreclosed properties like the ones being auctioned off now.

"There are cities that will actually acquire some of those properties and basically go in and do major rehabs. And then offer them for sale," Roddy said.

In Grand Prairie, a training session is underway for future foreclosure intervention specialists. They are in big demand now that the federal bailout provides $300 billion to help 400,000 families hold on to their homes.

"I also think it’s going to create an opportunity for more counseling agencies to provide foreclosure prevention service and also stabilize communities," said Joyce McDonald, foreclosure intervention specialist of Frameworks in Austin.

George Roddy says it's possible to stabilize communities and find a good deal. You just have to know where to look.

"So those people who wanted to take advantage of some deals now would be the time. The window of opportunity is open," said Roddy.

For more information about foreclosure prevention you can call 1-888-HOPE.