Homeowners eligible for a federal flood buyout face a tough choice as many owe more on their mortgages than the current market value of their house.

FEMA will buy out property at current market value. Some owners of homes that chronically flood may have to choose between taking a loss on their house and being rid of it, or staying and coping with flooding again and again. There are 149 homes in five counties approved for buyouts.

Federal buyouts on the way for 149 flood-ravaged homes