Notice of Default
You received a Notice of Default. Here is what it means.
It starts California’s foreclosure process, but it does not mean you have lost your home. You still have a window of time and real choices, and that window is closing. Use it.
In plain English
What a Notice of Default is
A Notice of Default (NOD) is a document your lender records after payments have been missed. After it is recorded, you generally have 90 days to catch up on what is owed before a Notice of Sale can be recorded. It tells you the loan is in default and states the amount needed to bring it current.
It is a warning, not a sale. A sale date is not set until a later notice.
What happens next
Typical California non-judicial timeline. Your lender, loan type, and any court filings can change it.
Options at this stage
Reinstate the loan
Pay the past-due amount plus fees to bring the loan current, sometimes through a repayment plan.
Ask about a modification or forbearance
Your lender may change terms or pause payments. They decide, and paperwork matters.
Sell before the sale date
If you have equity, a traditional sale can pay off the loan and leave you proceeds.
Short sale
If you owe more than the home is worth, the lender may approve selling for less.
Steps to take today
- Gather the notice and any letters from your lender or their attorney.
- Write down your loan balance, monthly payment, and the amount past due.
- Open mail from your lender rather than setting it aside.
- Be careful with anyone asking for upfront fees to “stop” your foreclosure.
- Consider a free call with a HUD-approved housing counselor as well as with me.
What I can and cannot do
I cannot promise to stop a foreclosure, and I am not an attorney. I can explain your options and timeline and refer you to an attorney or housing counselor when you need one. No upfront fees.
Questions about a Notice of Default
Does a Notice of Default mean I lose my home?
No. It starts a formal process, and you generally keep the right to reinstate until about five business days before a sale. You still have time and several options, though specifics depend on your loan.
How long do I have?
At least 90 days must pass before a Notice of Trustee Sale can be recorded, and you can generally reinstate until about five business days before the sale date. Your exact dates depend on your loan and lender.
Can I sell my home after a Notice of Default?
Yes. Many homeowners sell, or complete a short sale, before a trustee sale. Timing matters, which is why it helps to talk early.
Related: Notice of Trustee Sale · Short sale · Loan modification and forbearance
The clock started when the notice was recorded
Every day counts. Book a free 15-minute call today and I will explain your notice and your options.
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