What Is Lis Pendens?

A lis pendens is recorded at the start of a judicial foreclosure (and other property lawsuits) to put the world on notice that the property is subject to pending litigation. In Florida, it's filed alongside the foreclosure complaint.

Once a lis pendens is on record, it becomes very difficult to sell or refinance through conventional means — buyers and lenders see it as a cloud on title.

A property with a lis pendens can still be sold to a cash buyer who understands the situation and can close before the foreclosure completes. This is often the most realistic exit once a foreclosure lawsuit has been filed.