A nonjudicial foreclosure auction is a public sale of real property initiated by a trustee on behalf of a lender. This process typically occurs when a borrower defaults on a mortgage or deed of trust. The property is sold to the highest bidder, with the proceeds used to satisfy the outstanding debt owed to the lender. For example, if an individual fails to make mortgage payments, the lender can initiate the necessary steps to conduct this type of sale, recovering funds through the property’s transfer to a new owner.
This mechanism provides a relatively swift and cost-effective method for lenders to recoup losses associated with defaulted loans, compared to judicial foreclosure processes. Historically, it streamlined the recovery of collateral, protecting the interests of lenders and maintaining stability within the real estate market. It offers an opportunity for investors to acquire properties potentially at below-market prices, while simultaneously mitigating losses for lending institutions.