Federal law, state law, and your mortgage contract provide you with protections and rights in a foreclosure.
Get tips on what to do—and what not do—if you’re facing a foreclosure.
The terms of the mortgage or deed of trust you signed when getting your home loan usually define what constitutes default.
If you respond to a foreclosure lawsuit, but don’t bring up any valid issues, the foreclosing party will likely ask the court for summary judgment.
If you don’t respond to a foreclosure lawsuit, the lender will ask the court for a default judgment.
With a strategic default, you decide to let your home go through a foreclosure because it's a bad financial decision to keep it. Learn the consequences and alternatives.
If you're unemployed, you might be able to get a mortgage forbearance, loan modification, or temporary financial assistance to tide you over.
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At Nolo, we prioritize quality and transparency because we know how important reliable legal information is to our readers. Our information is meticulously researched, regularly updated, and written in plain English by our experienced writers and editors. Learn more about our editorial standards.