Foreclosure paperwork is not the same everywhere. The document you received depends on your state, whether the foreclosure is judicial or non-judicial, the stage of the process, and which party issued it. This page helps you identify the paper in front of you and points you to the right guide.
Not every homeowner receives every type of notice below. Some notices apply only in certain states or at certain stages. Use this page to narrow down what you are looking at, then follow the matching guide for the general explanation.
Find the description that matches your paperwork. Each entry gives a brief general explanation and links to the full guide — this page is a router, not a replacement for the detailed guides.
Commonly associated with default and non-judicial processes in some states. It generally indicates that the lender or servicer has begun the default process. Whether the same document exists, and what it triggers, depends on your state's procedure.
Read the Notice of Default GuideMay indicate that a foreclosure sale has been scheduled in a non-judicial process. The document is sometimes issued by a trustee under the deed of trust, and its terminology and requirements vary by state.
Used in judicial foreclosure litigation, where the lender files a lawsuit in court rather than proceeding by power of sale. Response requirements and deadlines depend on the jurisdiction and the case.
A public notice, recorded in the land records, that litigation affecting the property is pending. It is most commonly seen in judicial foreclosure cases and clouds title while the case is open.
Lis Pendens GuideMay relate to the sale stage in a judicial foreclosure process, where a sale is conducted under court supervision rather than by a deed-of-trust trustee. Procedure varies by state.
Sheriff Sale GuideGather the documents you received and review them carefully. Response requirements, notice periods, and available options depend on your state and the specific facts of your case. A free case review can help you understand your paperwork and what may come next.
Disclaimer: Dream Legal Solutions is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. The information on this page is educational and general in nature. Foreclosure notice terminology, procedures, and deadlines differ by state, and this page does not describe a universal process or universal deadlines. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your state.