If you're facing such a situation, it's time to assess your financial situation, and even begin to cut back on your spending.

FORBES: Surviving The Mortgage Mess

This is the simplest of examples, but bear in mind that more exotic mortgage contracts like option adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) and such can leave the household in a similar situation, facing not only impaired equity but also higher payments.

FORBES: Magazine Article

The situation was more grave for value-based retailers such as Aeropostale as it was facing a double-whammy on its margins, first from the increase in production costs due to rising cotton prices and second from the increase in promotions due to stiff competition in challenging retail environment.

FORBES: More Joy For Aeropostale, Pain For Abercrombie