Legal Definitions - strict foreclosure

Strict foreclosure is a legal process used by a lender to take ownership of a property when the borrower (mortgagor) fails to pay the mortgage debt within a court-specified period. Unlike other foreclosure methods, strict foreclosure does not involve a sale of the property.

For example, if a borrower defaults on their mortgage payments, the lender may initiate strict foreclosure proceedings. The court will then give the borrower a specific period to pay off the debt. If the borrower fails to pay within that period, the lender will take ownership of the property.

Strict foreclosure is a rare procedure and is only used in special situations. It is only permitted in a few states that allow this remedy generally.