Select your state and enter your sale date to see a day-by-day countdown of remaining time, critical deadlines, and emergency actions you can still take.
Trustee sales are the auction process in non-judicial foreclosure states. Learn how they work, notice requirements, how to stop a trustee sale, and what happens after the auction.
A trustee sale is the public auction of a foreclosed property conducted by a trustee in non-judicial foreclosure states. Unlike a sheriff sale (which requires a court judgment), a trustee sale proceeds under the power of sale clause in the deed of trust — without court involvement. The trustee is a neutral third party named in the deed of trust who is authorized to sell the property if the borrower defaults.
California, Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and DC — plus several others that allow both processes.
NOD triggers the reinstatement period (typically 90 days). Borrower can cure the default by paying arrears.
Mailed, posted on property, and published for the statutory period (14-30 days depending on state).
Typically at the county courthouse steps or a designated location. Bidders need cash or certified funds. The lender can credit-bid up to the amount owed.
Upon sale, the trustee issues a deed to the purchaser. In most non-judicial states, the sale is final — no post-sale redemption period.
The trustee sale process is governed entirely by state statute — and the trustee must follow every requirement precisely. Improper mailing, failure to post, insufficient publication, incorrect property description, or other procedural defects can invalidate the sale. This is why reviewing the trustee's compliance is a core part of foreclosure defense in non-judicial states.
Get emergency help to stop a trustee sale before the gavel falls.
Get Emergency Help