Which of the following actions is NOT a response a lender may take toward a defaulted loan without going to foreclosure?

The action that is not a response a lender may take toward a defaulted loan without proceeding to foreclosure is accelerating the debt. When a lender accelerates a loan, it means demanding immediate full repayment of the outstanding balance due to the borrower’s default. This action is often a precursor to foreclosure, as it essentially puts the borrower in a position where they must pay off the loan in full or face significant repercussions.

In contrast, renegotiating payment terms, extending the loan term, and offering a loan modification are all strategies aimed at helping the borrower manage their repayment situation while avoiding foreclosure. These options are designed to provide more flexibility and to support the borrower in getting back on track with their payments. Renegotiating payment terms might involve adjusting the monthly payments or interest rates, while extending the loan term can lower the monthly payment amount by spreading the repayment over a longer period. Loan modifications can involve changes to the terms of the loan itself, allowing for a more manageable repayment plan based on the borrower's current financial situation.