What happens in a foreclosure case after all settlement conferences have ended
If you just finished the settlement conference stage of your foreclosure case, here's what usually happens next.
The court will release your foreclosure
When all settlement conferences have ended, the court will release your foreclosure case from the Foreclosure Settlement Conference Part.
You may still apply for a loan modification
Even after settlement conferences have ended, you may continue to apply to the bank for a loan modification, such as:
- a short sale
- deed-in-lieu of foreclosure
- or other loss mitigation option (way to reduce your loss)
If you need help understanding your options to mitigate (reduce) loss and how to apply for them, contact a housing counseling agency. Most housing counseling agencies offer free or low-cost services. DEADLINE: You may apply for loss mitigation options until 37 days before the foreclosure auction sale date.
The bank is likely to:
1. Ask the court for an Order of Reference and a Summary Judgment
Generally, 1-6 months after settlement conferences, the bank will ask the court for one or two documents: (1) an Order of Reference and (2) Summary Judgment.
An Order of Reference asks the court to appoint a referee. The referee figures out how much you owe the bank. Meanwhile, if the court grants Summary Judgment to the bank, this means that the court determined that a trial is not needed.
2. Ask for a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale
If the court approves the bank’s Order of Reference and Summary Judgment, the bank will file a motion for a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale. This document will state the final amount you owe the bank.
If the court grants the Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, the bank will move forward with a foreclosure auction.
What you can do:
You may oppose the bank’s motions by filing an Affidavits in Opposition. Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (or a legal services provider near you) may be able to help with writing your opposition to these motions. Another resource is the County Clerk’s Office, which offers templates for Affidavits in Opposition.
If your home is sold at auction, you do not need to move out right away
If your property is sold at a foreclosure auction, you do not need to leave your property immediately. The buyer must file an application with the court to have you removed from the property. This is an issue with which our office may be able to help.
This information was provided by Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, serving Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange, Ulster and Sullivan counties. If you live in those counties, call (877) 574-8529 for more information.
Last Reviewed: September 8, 2023