Some Truths About Foreclosed Properties

By Doc Schmyz

When you say the word FORECLOSURE, most people have two popular notions about foreclosed homes: that they are being sold at bargain prices and that they are only located in crime-ridden areas. The former is not always true while the latter is definitely not always the case.

The price of foreclosed properties can be 30% to 40% cheaper than their current market values but that doesn't necessarily apply to all. Most houses will likely be sold at about 5% less than their current value. This is because banks decide the listing price with respect to the condition of the property. Factors including the location and the type of neighborhood where the property is will also affect the listing price of the property. A common notion that a foreclosed home can be bought cheap, only requires a little fixing up, and can be sold at a hefty price is a big misinterpretation. Well, some properties may fit this idea, but this is no longer the norm for this type of real estate investment.



For foreclosed property buyers, this means one thing: in order to get the best deal, you really have to put in the time and legwork in finding the best property on sale. One thing you have to remember if you are considering this kind of investment is that banks will definitely not sell off the properties at cheap prices as they are being appraised first before they go into listings. They know the value of homes that they have foreclosed and they don't treat them as liabilities, but as assets.

What about those properties that sell at bargain prices? Most, if not all, require major repairs or have eviction issues, or both. Electric and plumbing issues are the most common across the country. Followed closely by wood rot and decay. These handyman specials can be a great deal IF you can do the work.

Foreclosed properties can be found everywhere and can come in any form, shape, size, and price. This is contrary to the popular belief that foreclosed homes can only be found in crime-ridden areas. Meaning, finding a country villa, log cabin, beachfront home, and prime property among many others are within your viable options. But you should never, ever expect that these properties are sold dirt cheap. As the old saying goes, "you get what you pay for." So, if you are eying a premier foreclosed property, just expect to pay the real cost or slightly lower than its current value because in the end, saving you from the trouble of repairs and dealing with the bad neighborhoods are really worth the extra bucks. - 31862

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