California Foreclosure Timeline: Complete Process & Deadlines for 2025
Understanding California's foreclosure process could save your home. Here's exactly what to expect and when to act.
California Foreclosure Timeline Overview
California uses primarily non-judicial foreclosures (about 95% of cases), which are faster than judicial foreclosures. Here's the complete timeline:
Phase 1: Pre-Foreclosure (30-120 days)
- Day 1-30: First missed payment
- Day 30-90: Late notices and collection calls
- Day 90-120: Notice of Default (NOD) filed
Phase 2: Notice of Default Period (90+ days)
- Day 1: NOD recorded with county
- Day 10: NOD mailed to homeowner
- Day 90: Earliest Notice of Sale can be filed
💡 Key Point: You have at least 90 days from NOD to cure the default and stop foreclosure.
Phase 3: Notice of Sale (21+ days)
- Day 1: Notice of Sale (NOS) recorded
- Day 1-21: Legal notices published and posted
- Day 21+: Foreclosure auction can occur
🚨 Critical: After NOS is filed, you typically have only 21 days before auction.
Your Options at Each Stage
During Pre-Foreclosure (Best Options)
- Loan Modification: Work with lender to modify terms
- Sell Your House Fast: Get cash offer and close quickly
- Refinancing: If you have equity and good credit
- Forbearance: Temporary payment reduction or pause
After Notice of Default (Limited Time)
- Reinstatement: Pay all past due amounts plus fees
- Cash Sale: Sell to cash buyer (can close in 7 days)
- Deed in Lieu: Voluntarily transfer ownership
After Notice of Sale (Emergency Options)
- Emergency Cash Sale: Find buyer who can close in days
- Bankruptcy: Can temporarily halt foreclosure
- Full Payoff: Pay entire loan balance
California-Specific Protections
- Homeowner Bill of Rights: Additional protections for California homeowners
- Dual Tracking Protection: Lenders cannot pursue foreclosure while modification is pending
- Right to Cure: Opportunity to bring loan current even after default
- Military Protection: Additional rights for service members
Don't Wait - Time is Critical
The earlier you act, the more options you have. We can help you explore all possibilities and get a cash offer within 24 hours.
Get Your Free Consultation NowFrequently Asked Questions
How long does foreclosure take in California?
The complete foreclosure process in California typically takes 120-200 days from the first missed payment to auction, but can be longer depending on circumstances.
Can I stop foreclosure after Notice of Default?
Yes, you have at least 90 days after NOD to cure the default by bringing your loan current or exploring other options like selling your house.
What happens if I can't stop the foreclosure?
Your house will be sold at public auction. If it doesn't sell, the lender takes ownership (REO). You may still owe money if the sale doesn't cover the full loan amount.