A deficiency happens after a foreclosure when the sale of the home does not fully cover the remaining mortgage balance. The lender may pursue the homeowner for the difference between what the property sold for and what was still owed on the loan, depending on the laws that apply in the situation. To learn more, please contact San Diego Real Estate Attorneys today -- Go to RealEstateAttorneySanDiego.com or call (800) 233-8521 for a complimentary phone consultation.