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Georgia · What this letter means

Georgia foreclosure letters and notices

The papers Georgia homeowners receive, in the order they usually arrive. Each page uses the name on the Georgia document, explains the deadline it starts under Georgia law, and lists what to do this week.

  1. Step 1

    Notice of the initiation of proceedings to exercise a power of sale (the 30-day foreclosure notice)

    In Georgia, most foreclosures happen without a court case. The lender must mail you this notice no later than 30 days before the sale, and it is a copy of the sale ad going to the county legal newspaper. It is often the only paper you get before your home is sold on a first Tuesday.

    What it means
  2. Step 2

    Deed under power

    The deed under power is the deed the lender gives the winning bidder after a Georgia power of sale foreclosure. It transfers your home to the buyer, who is often the lender itself. It must state that the 30-day notice was given.

    What it means
  3. Step 3

    Notice of hearing on the report of sale for confirmation and approval

    If your Georgia home sold for less than the debt and the lender wants to collect the rest, it must report the sale to a superior court judge within 30 days and get it confirmed. This notice tells you the hearing date. The judge must find the home sold for its true market value.

    What it means
  4. Step 4

    Demand for possession

    A demand for possession is the new owner's written request that you leave the home after a Georgia foreclosure sale. It is required before the owner can file a dispossessory (eviction) case. It is not a court order, and no one can remove you on the strength of this letter alone.

    What it means
  5. Step 5

    Dispossessory warrant (affidavit) and summons

    A dispossessory case is the court eviction the new owner must bring after a Georgia foreclosure if you have not left. The summons gives you 7 days from service to answer, in writing or in person. If you do not answer, a writ of possession can issue without a hearing.

    What it means

Got a letter not listed here? See every foreclosure letter explained, or how foreclosure works in Georgia.