My understanding is that California is not a super lien state, and as such the HOA's lien is NOT superior to the loan in foreclosure unless it was recorded first (naturally senior). So yes, the lien does get wiped off the property at foreclosure. I see no reason why the HOA would not be entitled to continue to seek payment from the former owner. Here is an interesting article on the subject: http://www.communityassociations.net/cacondoguru/archives/2008/05/is_there_a_stra.html