Do Anti-Deficiency Laws in New Jersey Cover Second Mortgages?

Full question:

Do New Jersey anti deficiency laws apply to second mortgages?

  • Category: Real Property
  • Subcategory: Foreclosure
  • Date:
  • State: New Jersey

Answer:

Under New Jersey law, a judgment for deficiency may not be brought in the same action to foreclosure the residential mortgage (a separate action must be brought); this preclusion also includes claims on any personal guarantees. Foreclosure deficiency actions can be brought only once the mortgage is foreclosed; must be brought within three (3) months from the date of the sale and can not be brought against any party who was not a party to the foreclosure action. The deficiency balance sought must be the difference between the foreclosure judgment amount and the fair market value of the property at the time of the sale.

New Jersey’s deficiency statutes do not protect business or commercial loans, one to four family residential dwellings owner occupied at the time the deficiency action is commenced where the mortgage is not the primary security for the debt or where there is a second mortgage lender and the mortgage is subject to a prior lien(s) not held by the same lender.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

A deed in lieu of foreclosure in New Jersey is a legal process where a homeowner voluntarily transfers the title of their property to the lender to avoid foreclosure. This option allows the borrower to settle their mortgage debt without going through the lengthy foreclosure process. The lender typically agrees to forgive the remaining mortgage balance in exchange for the property. However, it's important for homeowners to understand the implications, including potential tax consequences and the impact on their credit score.