Foreclosure filing, active case, scheduled sale: what each means
A filing means a lender started a case. A judgment means the court fixed the debt and allowed a sale. A scheduled sale means an auction has been noticed. Many cases stop between these steps, and the gaps can be years.
Reviewed
| Stage | What it means | What it does not mean |
|---|---|---|
| Notice of pendency | A claim against the property was filed | That the owner is behind today, or that a sale is coming |
| Summons and complaint | The foreclosure case has started | That it will reach judgment |
| Order of reference | A referee will compute the amount owed | That a sale is scheduled |
| Judgment of foreclosure and sale | The court fixed the debt and authorised a sale | That an auction date is set |
| Notice of sale | An auction date has been published | That it will go ahead; sales are often adjourned |
| Stayed or discontinued | The case is paused or over | That the debt is gone |
A notice of pendency in New York lasts three years unless extended, so an old one may not mean a live case. Always read the latest docket entry.
This guide explains public records. It is not legal advice; confirm anything you rely on with the court, the agency or a lawyer.