The California Foreclosure Process & Timeline

Day 1

Record "Notice of Default"

Within 10 Days

Within 10 days of recording the Notice of Default, copies of the recorded document (NOD) are mailed to the Trustor(s) and anyone requesting Special Notice.

Within 1 Month

Notice of Default is mailed to parties, pursuant to California Civil Code 2924(c)

After 3 Months

At the end of 3-month, prepublication period, the Lender can then instruct the Trustee to set a sale date.

25 Days Prior to Sale Date

Notice to the IRS must be given, if required

At Least 20 Days Prior to Sale Date

Publish Notice of Sale, post Notice of Sale, mail Notice of Sale

Within 10 Days from first publication of Notice of Sale

Send beneficiary request for property directions

14 Days Prior to Sale

Record Notice of Trustee's Sale

5 Business Days Before Sale Date

Right to Reinstate expires

Sale Date

Property is sold to highest bidder

This information is being provided to try and help educate individuals who may be experiencing a possible foreclosure or potential foreclosure proceeding. Of course you should always seek advice from an attorney when able to do so. In the event you can't make your mortgage payment, or you suffer a hardship, contact your lender, bank, or mortgage company right away. Try and prevent this process from happening to you if possible. There are usually other options available if you take action in a timely manner. Don't wait until you are behind in your payments, or your home is in default to seek councel or get advice from a real estate professional or real estate attorney. Sometimes just knowing the right thing to do, or who to call can make the difference between keeping and losing your home in foreclosure.