If you’ve received a default notice or you’re behind on mortgage payments, understanding the foreclosure timeline in Florida is essential. Every day counts — and knowing what happens at each stage could be the difference between saving your home or losing it at auction.
As a local real estate agent and investor, I’ve helped homeowners across Orlando and Central Florida deal with foreclosure at all points in the process. Whether you’re just starting to fall behind or have an auction date on the calendar, there are still options available.
Let’s break down the foreclosure process in Florida, what to expect at each phase, and what you can do — right now — to stop the clock.
Is Florida a Judicial Foreclosure State?
Yes. Florida uses a judicial foreclosure process, which means the lender must file a lawsuit and go through the court system to repossess your home. This gives you legal rights and windows of opportunity to respond — but the timeline can move faster than you think.
Overview: Florida Foreclosure Timeline
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the foreclosure timeline in Florida, from the first missed payment to the final sale:
- Day 1: First Missed Mortgage Payment
- Day 30–90: Default and Collections
- Day 90+: Notice of Acceleration
- Day 120+: Lis Pendens Filed (Lawsuit Begins)
- 30–45 Days: Court Summons and Complaint
- 20 Days to Respond to Lawsuit
- Summary Judgment Hearing
- Foreclosure Sale Scheduled
- Auction Day
- 10 Days Later: Certificate of Title Issued
Now let’s dive into each stage with actionable steps.
Stage 1: First Missed Payment (Days 1–30)
You’re not in foreclosure yet, but the clock has started.
- The lender will contact you via mail and phone
- You’ll receive notices and late payment fees
What You Can Do:
- Contact your lender and request forbearance or repayment options
- Review your budget to catch up before it escalates
- Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free guidance
Stage 2: 90+ Days Late – Notice of Acceleration
After about 3 missed payments, the lender sends a Notice of Acceleration, demanding full repayment of the loan. This is your final warning before legal action.
What You Can Do:
- Request a loan modification or submit a hardship package
- Sell the house before foreclosure proceedings begin
- Talk to a local cash buyer or agent (like me) for a fast solution
Stage 3: Lis Pendens Filed – Foreclosure Lawsuit Begins
The lender files a Lis Pendens and serves you with a summons and complaint. You now have 20 calendar days to respond. If you don’t, the court will grant a default judgment.
What You Can Do:
- File an answer to the lawsuit to delay or challenge the foreclosure
- Hire a foreclosure defense attorney if possible
- Explore a short sale, deed-in-lieu, or sell the house before court judgment
Stage 4: Summary Judgment Hearing
If no agreement is reached, the lender requests a summary judgment. A hearing is scheduled, and the judge may set a foreclosure sale date right after.
What You Can Do:
- File a motion to postpone or negotiate with the lender
- Sell fast to an investor and use the proceeds to pay off the loan
- Contact your county clerk for sale schedules and deadlines
Stage 5: Foreclosure Auction Scheduled
The property is scheduled for public auction, typically within 30–60 days of the judgment.
What You Can Do:
- Sell your house before the auction — this is still legal and possible
- Redeem the mortgage by paying the full balance
- Work with an investor who can close quickly, pay off the loan, and help you avoid lasting credit damage
Stage 6: Auction and Certificate of Title
If the house is sold at auction, you no longer own it. The court issues a Certificate of Title about 10 days later, and the buyer can begin the eviction process.
What You Can Do (if this just happened):
- Contact a foreclosure attorney immediately
- Explore post-sale surplus funds if the home sold for more than what you owed
- Prepare to relocate — but try negotiating “cash for keys” with the new owner
Key Deadlines in the Florida Foreclosure Timeline
| Stage | Timeframe | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Missed Payment | Day 1 | Call lender, review finances |
| 90 Days Late | Day 90 | Apply for modification or sell |
| Lawsuit Filed | Day 120+ | Respond within 20 days |
| Judgment | 30–45 days after summons | Request postponement or sell |
| Auction | Set by court | Sell to investor, avoid sale |
| Title Transfer | 10 days post-sale | Prepare to vacate |
Selling Before Foreclosure: A Real Option in Every Stage
You can sell your home at any point before the foreclosure auction — even if you’re weeks away from the court sale.
As a local real estate professional and investor, I specialize in helping distressed Orlando homeowners sell fast, avoid auction, and move on with dignity.
Benefits include:
- No repairs needed — we buy as-is
- We handle past due taxes, liens, and legal fees at closing
- Close in as little as 7–10 days
- No agent commissions or hidden fees
Even if the auction is weeks away, there’s still time.
Request Your Cash Offer Today or call (305) 775-8750
Final Thoughts on the Foreclosure Timeline in Florida
The foreclosure timeline in Florida gives homeowners multiple opportunities to stop or delay the process — but only if you act quickly. Waiting too long can leave you with no options, no equity, and long-term credit damage.
If you’re unsure what stage you’re in or what to do next, reach out. Whether we work together or not, I’ll help you understand your options and timelines.
You don’t have to lose your home. Let’s create a plan that works for your situation.
FAQs About Foreclosure in Florida
How long does foreclosure take in Florida?
On average, 6 to 12 months, but it varies by case. Delays are common, but the process can move fast after judgment.
Can I sell my house during foreclosure?
Yes — as long as the property hasn’t sold at auction yet, you can sell it and pay off the loan before title transfers.
Do I get any money after foreclosure?
If the property sells for more than the debt owed, you may be entitled to surplus funds — but you must file a claim.
Can an investor really buy my house before auction?
Yes. Many investors (including myself) specialize in fast, as-is purchases that stop foreclosure and avoid bankruptcy.