Facing Foreclosure in DFW and Considering a TRO?

If you’re facing foreclosure in the DFW Metroplex, you’ve probably heard someone say:

“Just file a TRO — it’ll stop the foreclosure.”

But what does that actually mean?
And more importantly — is it the right move for you?

Let’s break it down.

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What Is a TRO?

A Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a court order that can temporarily stop a foreclosure sale from happening.

In Texas — including Dallas–Fort Worth — foreclosure sales typically happen on the first Tuesday of the month. Once the clock runs out, the property can be sold at auction on the courthouse steps.

A TRO is essentially a legal pause button. It asks a judge to temporarily prevent the lender from moving forward with the sale.

But here’s the key word: TEMPORARY.

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How a TRO Works in Texas

When a homeowner files a lawsuit against their lender, their attorney may request a TRO at the same time.

If granted, the court can:

• Stop the foreclosure sale
• Schedule a hearing
• Give both parties time to present their case

In Texas, TROs typically last up to 14 days unless extended by the court.

That means:
It does not cancel the foreclosure.
It does not erase missed payments.
It does not eliminate the mortgage.

It simply buys time.

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When Does a TRO Make Sense?

A TRO may be appropriate if:

• The lender made a legal error
• You were not properly notified
• There are servicing violations
• There is an active loan modification under review
• Bankruptcy isn’t the right fit but time is critical

In some cases, it’s a powerful legal tool.

In other cases, it just delays the inevitable — while legal fees pile up.

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The Reality of Filing a TRO in DFW

Here’s what many homeowners aren’t told:

Filing for a TRO usually requires:

• Hiring a foreclosure defense attorney
• Filing a lawsuit
• Paying court filing fees
• Posting a bond (in some cases)
• Attending a hearing shortly after

Legal costs can range from a few thousand dollars to significantly more, depending on complexity.

And if the court ultimately denies the request?
The foreclosure sale can proceed.

That’s why a TRO should be part of a larger strategy — not a last-minute panic decision.

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Alternatives to a TRO in the DFW Metroplex

Before filing a TRO, homeowners in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Garland, Plano, Irving, and surrounding areas may also consider:

1. Loan Modification

Working directly with the lender to adjust loan terms.

2. Repayment Plan

Catching up on missed payments over time.

3. Bankruptcy (Chapter 13)

This can automatically stop foreclosure under federal law.

4. Selling the Property Before Auction

Sometimes the cleanest way to protect your equity and avoid long-term credit damage is to sell before the foreclosure date.

Many homeowners in North Texas don’t realize that even if foreclosure is scheduled, they can still sell — often right up until the auction.

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Why Timing Is Everything in Texas Foreclosures

Texas is a non-judicial foreclosure state, which means lenders don’t need to go through a long court process to foreclose.

That makes the timeline faster than many other states.

If you’ve received a Notice of Trustee Sale, the clock is already ticking.

Waiting until the week before auction to explore options can severely limit what’s possible.

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Should You File a TRO to Stop Foreclosure?

Here’s the honest answer:

It depends on your goal.

Are you trying to:

• Stay in the home long-term?
• Negotiate leverage with the lender?
• Buy time to sell?
• Delay while figuring things out?

A TRO can be a strategic move — but it should be evaluated alongside all other options.

In many DFW situations, homeowners benefit from reviewing every path before spending thousands on emergency legal filings.

If You’re Facing Foreclosure in DFW

First — take a breath.

Second — don’t ignore the notices.

Third — talk to someone who understands how foreclosure works in North Texas and can explain your options clearly.

Whether that involves legal defense, restructuring your loan, or selling before auction, the most important thing is acting early.

Because once the property sells on the courthouse steps, your options shrink dramatically.

Need to Sell Fast Before Foreclosure in DFW?

If you’re in pre-foreclosure and the auction date is getting close, you may not have weeks to figure this out.

While legal options like a TRO can buy time, sometimes the simplest and most financially responsible decision is to sell the property before the foreclosure hits your record.

That’s where JCA Freedom Homes can help.

We work with homeowners across the DFW Metroplex who need to:

• Stop foreclosure before the auction date
• Sell quickly without repairs
• Avoid agent commissions
• Close on their timeline
• Protect as much equity as possible

We understand how fast Texas foreclosure timelines move — and we move just as fast.

If you’ve received a Notice of Trustee Sale or are behind on payments, don’t wait until the last week before auction.

📞 Let’s Talk About Your Options

There’s no pressure. No obligation. Just a clear conversation about what makes the most sense for your situation.

Reach out to JCA Freedom Homes today and find out how fast you can sell — before foreclosure makes the decision for you.