It’s unfortunate but foreclosed homes currently represent half of all of all the homes sold in the US. Before the bank forces foreclosure there is in a period called pre-foreclosure which can last anywhere from two to twelve weeks. Many of the real estate gurus have made a fortune on pre-foreclosures and consider it as one of the best, if not the best, way to invest in real estate.
Many of the ‘for sale by owner’ signs that you see are from owners that are in pre-foreclosure. The bank usually allows the homeowner time in which to try and sell their home before it is foreclosed. This is common because the bank is not in the real estate business and would prefer the current owner sell the home to cut their losses rather then having to seize the home themselves.
Here are many advantages to buying a pre-foreclosed home from a homeowner rather than bidding on a foreclosed home at an auction:
- Pre-foreclosed houses are often cheaper considering as it’s being sold by a home owner that is in a hurry to sell to avoid facing foreclosure and the bad credit that goes along with it.
- Since you won’t be at an auction, you will be given more time to talk to the home owner about any questions you may have concerning the house.
- Because the masses are more aware of where and when the government auctions are happening there are not as many investors competing for a pre-foreclosure property.
- More time to evaluate financial scenario then at an auctioned property.
- Auctions can be either overwhelming or lead to egotistical or emotional decisions.
- Less risk of potential problems because you can get a good look at the house ahead of time, and have it professionally inspected.
- You will be allowed to make a low down payment on a pre-foreclosed house. This is not the case at a foreclosure auction.
Always check to make sure that the pre-foreclosed home you’re interested in has no liens or judgements against it. You should also bring along someone to inspect the home for you so you’ll know of any problems. The risks in purchasing a pre-foreclosed home are similar to purchasing a home the traditional way, only a lot less expensive.
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