Why are affirmative defenses to a foreclosure different than just an answer with denials?

Affirmative defenses to a foreclosure complaint are different than a general denial of the complaint, because the defenses explain why the plaintiff is not entitled to foreclosure.

Practically speaking, they’re important from a strategic advantage, as well. If a defendant does not raise affirmative defenses, it’s much easier for the lender to obtain a foreclosure judgement.

If the borrower has valid, affirmative defenses, it’s important that the borrower assert them so that the plaintiff will have to deal with those defenses before it can obtain a foreclosure judgement.