Banks increased foreclosure activity in August, contributing to an increasing number of foreclosures in the third quarter of 2011. This brings to a close a nearly year-long let-up in foreclosure activity across the state.

According to DataQuick, the number of notices of default filed increased by close to 26% over the second quarter. During the second quarter, the number of notices of default filed had dropped to a three-year low. During the quarter that ended September 30, an estimated 71,275 notices of default were filed against California homes. For any homeowner or California foreclosure alternative lawyer, filing of a notice of default denotes the first step in the foreclosure process.

Most of the homes that are now going into foreclosure were purchased with loans that were made between 2005 and 2007, the peak of the housing bubble. During that time, many loans were made to people who did not have the means to repay them, resulting in numerous foreclosures.

Investigations found that banks had used faulty documentation and shoddy practices in order to speed up loan approvals. Additionally, there were numerous investigations into foreclosure and mortgage practices that led to a backlog of distressed properties. Now, banks have accelerated foreclosure activity again.

The increase in foreclosures also comes as talks between California and federal officials over a broad foreclosure settlement have stalled. The talks involve the five largest national mortgage service providers, and state attorney generals. California recently decided to drop out of the talks, and resolve the foreclosure crisis in the state on its own. California Atty. Gen, Kamala Harris has been unhappy with the negotiations with mortgage service providers because she believes that the banks are being offered broad relief from legal liability in these foreclosures.