Foreclosure

Learn how foreclosure works in Canadian real estate, what provinces use it, and what both homeowners and buyers need to know about the process.

Foreclosure



What is Foreclosure?

Foreclosure is a legal process through which a lender takes ownership of a property when the borrower defaults on their mortgage payments.

Why Foreclosure Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, foreclosure is less common than in the United States, as most provinces use a power of sale process instead. However, in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia, foreclosure is still a key legal remedy for lenders.

The process involves the lender going to court to obtain the right to sell the home, aiming to recover the unpaid mortgage balance. The borrower typically loses all rights to the property, and any surplus proceeds (after paying off the mortgage and legal costs) may be returned to the homeowner.

Foreclosure can significantly impact a borrower's credit and ability to qualify for future loans. It is generally a last resort after other attempts to resolve the default—such as loan modification, refinancing, or sale—have failed.

Understanding foreclosure helps both homeowners and buyers:

  • Homeowners can explore alternatives before default.
  • Buyers may purchase foreclosed properties at a discount but must navigate legal and condition-related risks.
Legal timelines and borrower protections vary by province, so legal advice is essential for anyone facing or pursuing foreclosure.

Example of Foreclosure

After defaulting on their mortgage for several months, a homeowner in Nova Scotia loses their property through foreclosure. The court authorizes the lender to sell the home.

Key Takeaways

  • Legal process to reclaim a property after default.
  • More common in some provinces than others.
  • Can severely damage credit.
  • Buyers can find discounted properties, with risk.
  • Legal process varies—professional advice recommended.

Related Terms

  • Power of Sale
  • Mortgage Default
  • Credit Score
  • Repossession
  • Judicial Sale

Additional Terms

Recourse Loan

A recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender can pursue the borrower’s personal assets, beyond the collateral, in the event of default.. more

Pari Passu

A pari passu clause is a contractual provision ensuring that multiple creditors share equally in repayment priority from the borrower’s assets.. more

Non-Recourse Loan

A non-recourse loan is a type of loan where the lender’s only remedy in case of default is to seize the collateral property; the borrower is not. more

Net Operating Income

Net operating income (NOI) is the total income generated by a property after operating expenses are deducted but before taxes and financing costs.. more

Mechanic's Lien

A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim by a contractor, subcontractor, or supplier for unpaid work or materials provided for a property.. more

Lis Pendens

Lis pendens is a legal notice filed in the land registry indicating that a property is subject to ongoing litigation that may affect its title.. more

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