top of page
south tampa luxury home.jpg

STOP FORECLOSURE IN TAMPA

Foreclosure notice

​​

 

Stop Foreclosure in Tampa

Falling behind on mortgage payments can be stressful, confusing, and emotionally exhausting — especially when foreclosure notices start arriving. If you’re facing foreclosure in Tampa, it’s important to know that you may still have options to sell your home and protect your equity before the situation escalates.

 

With over 25 years of real estate experience in Florida, I help homeowners understand where they are in the foreclosure process, what choices are available, and how to move forward with clarity — without pressure or one-size-fits-all advice.

 

A Thoughtful, Experienced Perspective

I’m Sandra “Sandy” Cantu, a Licensed Florida Real Estate Salesperson, BBB Accredited, with over 25 years of real estate experience.

 

I work with Tampa homeowners who want:

  • Clear, honest guidance

  • Realistic expectations

  • Strategic options — not pressure

 

My role is to help you decide if, when, and how selling makes sense.

Behind on Mortgage Payments? You Still Have Options

Missing one or more mortgage payments does not automatically mean you’ve lost your home. Many Tampa homeowners experience temporary financial hardship due to job changes, medical issues, divorce, rising insurance costs, or unexpected expenses.

​

Common warning signs include:

  • Missed or late mortgage payments

  • Demand letters from the lender

  • A Notice of Default

  • A Lis Pendens filed in public records

 

The earlier you explore your options, the more control you maintain over the outcome — including how and when your home is sold.

IMG_3054.jpg

 

 

What Happens If a Home Goes to Foreclosure Auction?

If a home reaches foreclosure auction:

  • The sale becomes public

  • The homeowner loses control of pricing and timing

  • Credit damage increases

  • Any remaining equity may be lost

 

Waiting too long often limits choices. Selling earlier typically provides more flexibility, privacy, and better financial outcomes.

​

REO (Real Estate Owned) Properties - What That Means

If a home does not sell at the foreclosure auction, it becomes REO (Real Estate Owned), meaning the bank now owns the property.

​

Once a property becomes REO:

  • The homeowner no longer controls the sale

  • Any remaining equity is usually gone

  • The bank determines pricing and timing

​

Understanding how REO works highlights why selling before this stage is often critical for homeowners hoping to avoid permanent financial loss.

Can You Sell a House in Foreclosure in Tampa?

Yes — in many cases, a home can be sold up until the foreclosure auction date, depending on timing and lender requirements.

​

Many homeowners choose to sell their property as-is during foreclosure, avoiding repairs, inspections, or costly updates. Learn more about selling your house as-is in Tampa and how that option works under tight timelines.

​

Selling options may include:

  • A cash sale when speed is critical

  • An MLS listing when time and condition allow

  • A coordinated sale that satisfies lender requirements

 

The best option depends on your timeline, equity, and goals — not just urgency.

​

​​

​

If foreclosure is a concern, focus on these steps:

  1. Open and review all lender correspondence

  2. Understand your foreclosure timeline

  3. Avoid foreclosure “rescue” scams

  4. Compare legitimate selling options

  5. Speak with an experienced professional

 

You don’t have to decide everything today — but understanding your position puts you back in control.

​

Working with a Florida-licensed real estate professional who understands foreclosure timelines helps reduce mistakes and missed opportunities. My role is to explain all options clearly, whether that leads to a cash sale, an MLS listing, or another solution that fits your situation. Sandy Buys Houses is a BBB accredited business, 25+ years experience in real estate.

What Do I Need to Do Right Now?

Sandy Cantu Sandy Buys Houses

Cash Sale vs MLS When Facing Foreclosure

When foreclosure is involved, choosing between a cash sale and an MLS listing depends on time, condition, and certainty.

 

A cash sale may make sense if:

  • Time is limited

  • Repairs aren’t possible

  • You want speed and predictability

​

An MLS listing may make sense if:

  • There is adequate time before auction

  • The home is market-ready

  • Maximizing price is the priority

 

The right answer is different for every homeowner — and understanding both paths matters.

​

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Foreclosure in Tampa

 

Can I stop foreclosure in Tampa?

In many cases, yes. Homeowners may be able to stop foreclosure by selling the home before the foreclosure sale or choosing another option based on timing and equity. The most important first step is understanding where you are in the foreclosure process and whether an auction date has been set.  Reviewing your Cash Offer vs MLS options in Tampa can help you understand which path fits your situation best.

 

Can I sell my house in Tampa if I’m already in foreclosure?

Often, yes. Many homeowners can sell their property during pre-foreclosure and sometimes right up until the foreclosure auction date, depending on lender requirements. Acting earlier usually preserves more options and flexibility.

 

What is pre-foreclosure in Florida?

Pre-foreclosure is the stage after a lender starts the legal foreclosure process but before the home is sold at auction. In Florida, this often begins when a Lis Pendens is filed. During this time, the homeowner still owns the property and may be able to sell — including selling the home as-is in Tampa without making repairs.

 

What happens if my home goes to foreclosure auction?

If a home reaches foreclosure auction, the sale becomes public and the homeowner loses control over pricing and timing. This stage often increases financial consequences and may result in the loss of remaining equity.

 

What is an REO property?

REO stands for Real Estate Owned. If a home does not sell at foreclosure auction, it may become bank-owned. Once a property becomes REO, the homeowner no longer controls the sale, and any remaining equity is often lost.  At that point, the homeowner no longer controls the sale, which is why many try to sell earlier — often through cash home buyers in Tampa.

 

Should I choose a cash sale or an MLS listing if I’m facing foreclosure?

It depends on timing, condition, and goals. A cash sale may offer speed and certainty when deadlines are tight. An MLS listing may make sense if there is enough time to market the home and maximize price. Comparing cash sale vs MLS: both options helps homeowners choose the best path.

 

Do I need to make repairs before selling a house in foreclosure?

Not always. Many homeowners sell their property as-is, especially when time or finances are limited. Selling as-is can help avoid repair costs, delays, and additional stress during foreclosure.

Aerial View of a Houses

CONTACT SANDY TODAY

We appreciate your submission.A member of our team will be in touch with you shortly.

Real Estate Investor

​

We Buy All Types of Properties, Any Condition Cash Offer Within 48 Hours

​

Distressed, Probate, Fixer-Upper, Inheritance, Foreclosure, Probate, Condominium, Land

  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn

Cash Sale As-Is Options Across Southwest Florida

Serving homeowners throughout Southwest Florida with local, as-is cash sale options

 

Cities and Areas Served, but not limited to:​​

Tampa

St. Petersburg

Clearwater

Sarasota

Naples​

Brandon

Bradenton

New Port Richey

Lakeland 

bottom of page