Top Mistakes Homeowners Make When Trying to Claim Surplus Funds

If your home was recently sold at a foreclosure or tax deed sale, you might be entitled to surplus funds — the leftover money after all debts and liens have been paid. Sounds simple, right?

Unfortunately, many homeowners lose out on thousands (sometimes tens of thousands) because of avoidable mistakes during the claim process.

Here are the top missteps we see — and how Visionary Surplus Recovery helps you avoid them.

Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to File a Claim

Timing is everything. Florida gives you a limited window (typically 1 year) to claim your surplus funds before the money is transferred to the state’s unclaimed property division.

By then, the process becomes much harder and slower — and sometimes you may lose your right to the funds altogether.

How We Help: We act fast. As soon as we confirm funds are available, we begin preparing your claim immediately and file it within days.

Mistake #2: Filing Incomplete or Incorrect Paperwork

Claiming surplus funds requires submitting legal forms to the Clerk of Court. Even small errors — like missing signatures, the wrong case number, or insufficient documentation — can delay or deny your claim.

How We Help: Our attorney partners review and file every document properly, ensuring nothing gets missed.

Mistake #3: Not Checking for Junior Liens or Heirs

Even if there’s money left after the sale, it might not all go to you. HOA liens, IRS debts, or other mortgages can legally be paid first. Also, if the original owner is deceased, heirs or probate court may come into play.

How We Help: We perform a full lien and title check and, if necessary, help resolve probate issues so funds are distributed fairly and legally.

Mistake #4: Trusting the Wrong People

There are companies and individuals who prey on distressed homeowners. They might:

  • Charge illegal upfront fees

  • File false claims

  • Take a larger cut than allowed (Florida caps fees at 12% without court approval)

How We Help: We follow every Florida statute, never charge upfront, and keep everything transparent with written agreements and attorney oversight.

Mistake #5: Assuming You’re Not Eligible

Many people mistakenly think:

  • “My lender probably kept the money.”

  • “It’s been too long, I missed my chance.”

  • “I don’t even know how to check.”

So they do nothing — and the money sits unclaimed.

How We Help: We do the research for you. If funds are available, we’ll explain your options clearly and handle every step on your behalf.

Let the Professionals Protect Your Claim

You’ve already been through enough. Don’t lose out on surplus funds that legally belong to you just because the process is confusing or risky.

At Visionary Surplus Recovery, we simplify everything:

  • Fast claim filing

  • Attorney-managed process

  • No upfront fees

  • Clear updates every step of the way


We Recovered $64,527 in Just 45 Days! (REAL Case Study)

Think You Might Be Owed Surplus Funds?
We’ll verify it for free.

Click here to contact us or call us now at (813)934-4146.

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What’s the Difference Between Tax Deed and Foreclosure Surplus Funds?

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Why You Shouldn’t Trust Every Surplus Funds Letter You Get in the Mail