The foreclosure auction occurs and the property is sold to the highest bidder (often the lender). At this point, the former homeowner becomes a tenant at sufferance — no right to remain, but entitled to due process before removal.
The new owner serves a written notice to vacate. The required notice period varies by state (3-90 days). This is the first formal step. You are not required to leave until the notice period expires.
If you don't leave after the notice period, the new owner files an eviction lawsuit. You receive a summons and complaint. You have the right to file an answer and raise defenses.
A hearing is scheduled (often within 20-30 days). The judge issues a judgment for possession if the new owner proves its case. You may have 5-30 additional days after judgment.
The sheriff posts a notice on your door (typically 5 days before lockout). The sheriff returns to physically remove occupants. At this point, removal is imminent.
Some new owners attempt self-help evictions — changing locks, shutting off utilities, or removing belongings without a court order. This is illegal everywhere in the U.S. If a new owner or their agent attempts self-help, you may have claims for wrongful eviction, trespass, conversion, and violation of state landlord-tenant law. Document everything and contact an attorney immediately.
The new owner may offer cash-for-keys — paying you to leave voluntarily by a certain date. We can negotiate: more cash (typically $3,000-$10,000+ depending on property value), more time (30-90+ days), waiver of deficiency claims, and a clean record. Cash-for-keys is voluntary — you aren't required to accept it. But it can provide a meaningful financial bridge during relocation.