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 some of the reasons many real estate professionals prefer purchasing a pre-foreclosed properties rather then waiting until they reach foreclosure:
- Pre-foreclosed homes are often sold for less than foreclosed homes. To avoid credit problems a homeowner is motivated to sell their home before the bank takes possesion.
- Because you are working with the owner you’ll be able to ask questions about the property you wouldn’t be able to otherwise.
- Typically less competition then at a foreclosure auction. Foreclosures attracts more of the mass real estate market then pre-foreclosures do.
- More time to evaluate financial scenario then at an auctioned property.
- Auctions can be a skill in itself and many people are not comfortable in that environment.
- You can bring an inspector along with you to inspect a pre-foreclosed home.
- You don’t need as much cash up front like you would at an auction. You can pay a down payment for as low as a few hundred dollars!
As with any house purchase make sure you check for any judgements, or liens against the estate. Bring along someone how is familiar with buying real estate and if possible have the house professional inspected. The risks are comparable to a traditional type of home purchase but with the advantages of foreclosure discounted pricing.
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