The trustee handling the foreclosure depends on the type of sale:
Mortgage Foreclosure Sale → Usually handled by a Trustee, Law Firm, or County Clerk.
Tax Sale (Tax Lien/Tax Deed Auction) → Handled by the County Tax Collector or Treasurer.
HOA Foreclosure Sale → Managed by the HOA's Attorney or Trustee.
To find out who handled the foreclosure:
Check the Notice of Trustee’s Sale or Final Judgment (usually recorded at the County Clerk's Office).
Look at the Foreclosure Case Docket (some counties list the trustee, auctioneer, or foreclosure attorney).
Check with the County Court or Foreclosure Division (call and ask for the foreclosure case file).
Once you have identified the trustee, use these methods to get their contact details:
County Clerk’s Office Website: Search for the foreclosure case and look for the trustee’s contact details.
Trustee or Foreclosure Attorney’s Website: Many law firms and trustees list their contact information on their websites.
Title Search or Foreclosure Database: Some counties have online foreclosure records that include trustee details.
Pro Tip: If the county doesn't provide the info online, call the County Recorder's Office and request the trustee’s name & contact details from the foreclosure documents.
Once you have the trustee’s contact details, reach out professionally:
Calling the Trustee (Recommended)
Best For: Quick updates, confirming surplus status, and requesting lien breakdowns.
Script for Calling the Trustee:
"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am inquiring about surplus funds from a foreclosure sale that took place on [Sale Date] in [County Name]. I would like to confirm whether surplus funds are available and if there are any lienholders listed. Could you provide the necessary claim process and any required forms?"
Be ready with:
Foreclosure Case Number
Property Address & Owner Name
Sale Date
Emailing the Trustee
Best For: Requesting official documentation, surplus breakdowns, and claim instructions.Sample Email to Trustee:
Subject: Surplus Funds Inquiry – Case #[Foreclosure Case Number]
Dear [Trustee’s Name or Office],
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out regarding surplus funds from the foreclosure sale of [Property Address] on [Sale Date].
Could you confirm if there are available surplus funds and provide information on any outstanding liens or priority claims? Additionally, I would appreciate guidance on the required steps and forms needed to file a claim.
Below are the case details for reference:
Foreclosure Case Number: [Case Number]
Former Owner Name: [Owner’s Full Name]
Auction Sale Date: [Date]
Please let me know how I can proceed with obtaining this information. I appreciate your time and assistance.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Your Company Name (if applicable)]
Sending a Letter (If Required)
Best For: Official requests when a trustee requires written documentation.
Use the same format as the email, but send it via certified mail to the trustee’s mailing address.
When contacting the trustee, request:
Surplus Funds Amount Available
List of Claimants/Lienholders
Priority of Liens (who gets paid first)
Official Claim Form & Filing Deadline
Some trustees have a website where you can download surplus claim forms directly.
If no response within 3-5 business days, follow up via phone or email.
If the trustee does not provide information, check if the county has surplus fund records available online.
If the trustee requires court approval, file a motion with the court to request surplus funds.
