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What Is a Lis Pendens and What Are My Options?

Published February 7, 2026 | Reading Time: 6 Minutes

If you’ve received notice that a lis pendens has been filed against your property, you may feel overwhelmed. But here’s the truth:

A lis pendens is not a foreclosure — it’s a warning.

And that warning gives you time to act.

What Does “Lis Pendens” Mean?

Lis pendens is Latin for “suit pending.” It is a public notice that a lawsuit involving your property has been filed — typically related to foreclosure.

It acts as a red flag attached to your property’s public record.

The Foreclosure Timeline

Stage 1: Lis Pendens Filed

You are officially in pre-foreclosure. You still own your home. Your options are wide open.

Stage 2: Pre-Foreclosure Period

The lender prepares for auction. You still have time — but options narrow daily.

Stage 3: Auction Scheduled

An auction date is set. Immediate action is critical.

Stage 4: Foreclosure Auction

Ownership ends once sold at auction.

Your Options When Facing a Lis Pendens

1. Loan Modification

Negotiate with your lender to adjust loan terms and reduce payments.

2. Traditional Sale

If you have equity, sell before auction and protect your credit.

3. Short Sale

If underwater, sell with lender approval — sometimes with deficiency forgiven.

4. Deed-in-Lieu

Voluntarily transfer property to lender to avoid foreclosure record.

5. Cash Investor Sale

Sell quickly (7–21 days) to stop foreclosure fast.

6. Bankruptcy

Temporary legal pause — should be considered carefully with an attorney.

What You Should Do Right Now

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