Wow, every Real Estate office that I pass has a banner, marquee, or sign claiming the above. Just stop on in and pick it up. Since I deal with a large number of foreclosures as a listing agent, I thought I'd share a couple of thoughts.
I get calls every day for foreclosed listings that sold two to four weeks ago. They're definitely not being found online. Are offices not updating these lists or are consumers picking them up and letting them sit for weeks before they act? Hard to say, maybe some of both.
If you are interested in foreclosures, here's a few other thoughts. First, properties under $80,000 go very, very fast. If they're financeable, that is in good enough shape, they're absorbed quickly. In general, a lot of homes under $50,000 cannot be financed because they need too much work. Unless you are getting a rehab loan or a construction loan, you'll need to buy cash.
Are you handy? If you are, the above example is OK. If you're not, what good is buying a $20,000 house if you have to hire out all of the work to make it habitable? You might as well spend more on a home that can be financed and perhaps needs only re-decorating. Will you live there yourself or rent it out? Maybe it's a home for an older child. All are OK, but know your strengths and plan accordingly.
Of course, I am biased as a Real Estate Professional, but unless you have done a lot of buying and selling on your own, I strongly recommend that you work with an agent of your choice. They will help you refine your plan, get you listings that are appropriate and guide you through the buying process.
Remember, you have to know what you can handle in terms of repairs and expenses. If you're looking at the low end of the price range, you have to be prepared to act quickly or lose out to another buyer. I am amazed at the number of people buying under $50,000 homes for cash. Your best bet for a successful purchse is to work with a real estate agent that knows bank owned property procedures.
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