Buying Foreclosed Homes Getting a Good Deal
In the U.S, the housing segment was the worst hit by the economic recession. Despite numerous shoring up efforts by President Obama through various schemes, housing values are yet to recover lost ground. Signs of recovery are being seen in some prime areas but still these prices are nowhere near the peak prices of 2007- 2008.
However, this is not all bad news especially for those who are looking to buy their dream home. With many homes going underwater, there are a number of foreclosures happening these days. Buying a ‘foreclosed’ home lets you get your dream home at price that can be really attractive.
Checking with real estate agents and brokers in the area you want to buy into often yields good results. Owners of homes that are being foreclosed typically use agents so that they can maximize the chances of finding buyers who are willing to pay a good price.
Check with some reputed real estate agents in the locality for a list of foreclosed properties in the area. Chances are the agent can even tell you which properties have recently come into the market so that you get a home that has not been standing empty for months, thus falling into disrepair.
A stroll through the neighborhood you want to move into is also a simple yet very effective way of identifying foreclosed properties. Simply look for the ‘Foreclosed’ sign and call the number on the sign to know more. You can get a look at the property in this way and select only those that appeal to you.
The most important thing to verify when buying a foreclosed property is whether the owner has the original title deeds to the property. When the sale is completed, these deeds should be handed over to you or to the lender financing the purchase for you.
In case of any wrongful repossession or other legal issues that may be uncovered at a future date, your investment in the home is protected as long as you or your lender has the original title deeds. Many Americans now opt for title insurance to protect their investment in a new home. This insurance insulates you against fake signatures, fraudulent documentation or even hidden liens on the property.
Some have hesitations about buying a foreclosed home because it seems like they are taking advantage of the owner’s financial distress. This is not really the case because the original owner can get rid of his biggest debt if you buy his property. He gets a chance to make fresh start once the foreclosure proceedings are completed. Buying a foreclosed home may be as advantageous to the original owner as it is to you.