Receiving a Notice of Trustee’s Sale can feel final, but homeowners still have critical rights during this stage of the foreclosure process. Here’s what to expect—and how to act fast.
1. Understanding the Timeline
Under Cal. Civ. Code § 2924f, a lender can record and post a Notice of Trustee’s Sale (NTS) after the 90-day NOD period expires.
The sale must be scheduled at least 21 days after posting, and notices must be:
- Mailed to the borrower and interested parties.
- Posted at the property.
- Published in a local newspaper.
2. Options After the NTS Is Recorded
Even after this stage, homeowners can still:
- Reinstate the loan up to five business days before the sale.
- Pay off the full balance anytime before the sale date.
- Sell the property (including short sales or investor purchases).
- File for bankruptcy, which can temporarily stop the sale.
3. Postponements and Cancellations
Trustees can postpone a sale for up to one year. Postponements may occur for loan review, payment receipt, or mutual agreement.
Always verify sale dates directly with the trustee—not third parties—since public postings update frequently.
4. What If the Property Sells?
After sale, the winning bidder receives a Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale, transferring ownership immediately. California does not offer a post-sale redemption period for nonjudicial foreclosures, meaning the sale is final unless legal violations occurred.
Even at this late stage, taking immediate, informed action can make the difference between recovery and loss.
Not sure what the next step should be?
We help homeowners and Realtors understand available options.
