The California foreclosure clock — stage by stage
California uses non-judicial foreclosure. Here's exactly what happens, when, and what you can still do at each stage.
- 1Day 1–90
Missed payments / pre-foreclosure
Lender sends late notices, calls, and letters. No legal action yet. The cheapest, easiest time to engage — most options are still on the table.
What to do: Call Michael. Get the file in front of the lender before formal action starts.
- 2Day 90+
Notice of Default (NOD) recorded
Lender records a Notice of Default with the county recorder. This starts the formal California non-judicial foreclosure clock. You typically have 90 days from this point to cure.
What to do: List immediately. Short sale is still very achievable. Auction is at least ~111 days away.
- 3After 90 days from NOD
Notice of Trustee's Sale (NOS) recorded
Lender records the Notice of Sale. This sets an auction date a minimum of 21 days out. Public posting begins.
What to do: Time-sensitive. Postponements possible with an active short sale and accepted offer.
- 421+ days after NOS
Trustee's sale (auction)
The home is auctioned on the courthouse steps. If sold, ownership transfers to the highest bidder. If not, it becomes REO (bank-owned).
What to do: Last-resort options: bankruptcy stay, last-minute postponement, or short-sale auction-day push.
- 5Post-auction
Eviction / move-out
New owner files for possession. You typically receive a 3-day notice, then a formal unlawful detainer.
What to do: Cash for keys is often available — I can help negotiate a graceful exit.
Ready to talk through your situation?