What is lis pendens?
A recorded notice that a lawsuit involving the property has been filed, often the first public sign of a foreclosure.
Why it matters to an investor
A lis pendens is often the first public sign of a foreclosure. It is recorded when a lawsuit that affects the property is filed, so it appears before any sale date.
How investors use it
- Watch new lis pendens filings in your county each week.
- Check how much time is left before the sale in your state.
- Reach the owner early, while they still have equity and choices.
A real example
Right now Cuyahoga County, OH has 4,881 properties in foreclosure in its county records (refreshed weekly). See the Cuyahoga County list →
Questions
Is a lis pendens a lien?
No. It is a notice that a lawsuit affecting the property is pending. It warns buyers that title is in question.
Does every county publish them?
Not in the same way. Some counties show them in the recorder's index, others only in the court docket.
How we make these guides
Written by the LeadCounty editorial and data team from official county, court and state sources and our own weekly counts. We name the office behind every number, say what we cannot see, and fix mistakes when you tell us. See our editorial standards and methodology. General information, not legal or financial advice. Refreshed weekly.
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