(a) In general

(1) Referral to Attorney General

If after deducting the payments provided for in section 3762 of this title, the price at which the security property is sold at a foreclosure sale is less than the unpaid balance of the debt secured by the security property, resulting in a deficiency, the Secretary may refer the matter to the Attorney General who may commence an action or actions against any or all debtors to recover the deficiency, unless such an action is specifically prohibited by the mortgage.

(2) Other recoveries

In any action instituted pursuant to this section the United States may recover—

(A) any amount authorized by section 3011 of title 28; and

(B) the costs of the action.

(b) Limitation

Any action commenced to recover a deficiency under this section must be brought not later than 6 years after the date of the last sale of the security property.

Ask a real estate law question, get an answer ASAP!
Thousands of highly rated, verified real estate lawyers.
Specialties include: All Real Estate Law, Landlord and Tenant Law, Foreclosure, Homeowners' Association, Trespassing, Property Law, General Legal and more.
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

Terms Used In 12 USC 3768

  • Foreclosure: A legal process in which property that is collateral or security for a loan may be sold to help repay the loan when the loan is in default. Source: OCC
  • Mortgage: The written agreement pledging property to a creditor as collateral for a loan.