WHO WE ARE 
We specialize in helping individuals recover surplus funds left over after property foreclosures or tax sales. Our team guides you through the technical process to ensure you receive the funds that legally belong to you.
After a foreclosure sale, extra funds may remain if the auction price exceeds the total debt owed.
These funds belong to the previous property owner or rightful heirs under law.
Many people never claim them because they don’t know they exist, or the process is too complex.
HOW IT WORKSProperty owners must pay annual property taxes. If taxes go unpaid:
The county sells a tax certificate to an investor who pays the unpaid taxes on the owner’s behalf.
If the taxes remain unpaid for a certain period (usually 2 years), the certificate holder can apply for a tax deed sale.
The property is auctioned to the highest bidder at a public sale.
If the property sells for more than:
Property owners who have a mortgage, must pay it. If it is not paid then:
The process often begins when a borrower misses a payment (90 days +)
The lender files a foreclosure lawsuit with the Court (Judicial) or a Notice of Default (non-Judicial)
A public auction is sold at a public auction to the highest bidder.
If the property was sold for more than what was owed, then there is a Surplus that belongs to the owner or their heirs
Property owners must pay their HOA fees and assessments. If not paid then:
The HOA send formal notice of overdue balance. If not paid, then HOA files a claim of lien against the property
The HOA files a foreclosure lawsuit and records a Lis Pendens and obtains a court judgment.
A public auction is sold at a public auction to the highest bidder.
If the property was sold for more than what was owed, and there are no other debts or liens, then a Surplus is created. This Surplus belongs to the owner or their heirs
At Sanchez Mendez Asset Recovery Team (SMART), we focus on identifying and recovering surplus funds owed to former property owners and rightful heirs.
Here’s how we facilitate the process:
We investigate foreclosure and tax deed sales to determine whether surplus funds exist and who may be legally entitled to them.
We review public records to confirm ownership history, lien priority, and claim eligibility.
We prepare and organize the required claim forms, affidavits, and supporting documentation needed by the court or county.
We submit claims properly and monitor the case to ensure deadlines are met and requirements are satisfied.
If hearings or additional documentation are required, we help coordinate the necessary steps to move the claim forward.
