Foreclosure is a legal process in which a lender takes possession of a property from a borrower who has defaulted on their mortgage loan payments. The lender then sells the property to recoup the outstanding loan balance.

Foreclosure proceedings typically begin after the borrower misses several payments. The lender will issue a notice of default, giving the borrower a certain amount of time to bring their payments up to date. If the borrower is unable to do so, the lender will begin the foreclosure process.

Foreclosure can have serious consequences for the borrower, including damage to their credit score and the loss of their home. It is important for borrowers who are struggling to make their mortgage payments to contact their lender as soon as possible to discuss their options, such as loan modification or refinancing.

For potential homebuyers, foreclosures can represent an opportunity to purchase a property at a discounted price. However, it is important to do your due diligence and understand the risks involved in purchasing a foreclosed property, such as potential liens on the property or needed repairs.