A sheriff sale is how foreclosed properties are auctioned in judicial foreclosure states. Learn how sheriff sales work, redemption periods, and how to stop one before it's too late.
A sheriff sale is the public auction of a foreclosed property conducted by the county sheriff (or a designated officer) in judicial foreclosure states. After the court enters a final judgment of foreclosure, the sheriff is ordered to sell the property to the highest bidder. The sale typically takes place at the county courthouse and follows specific statutory procedures.
Florida, New York, Illinois, Ohio, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Vermont, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Hawaii, Alaska — and others. In these states, the sale is conducted by the sheriff or court officer.
After the court case concludes, the judge signs an order directing the sheriff to sell the property.
The sale date is published in a legal newspaper, typically for 2-4 consecutive weeks. The notice includes the property description, sale date/time, and terms.
The sheriff auctions the property to the highest bidder. The lender often bids the amount owed (credit bid). Bidders typically need certified funds.
After the sale — sometimes after a redemption period — the sheriff issues a deed to the purchaser, transferring ownership.
Get emergency assistance to stop a sheriff sale before it's too late.
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