Buying a foreclosed home can be a great investment – but it also comes with its own set of risks and challenges. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a foreclosure?
First, it makes sense to understand exactly what a foreclosure is. A foreclosure is a property that has been repossessed by a lender because of nonpayment. These lenders, typically banks, then sell off the property to recoup their losses.
Pros of buying a foreclosure
One of the biggest reasons that homebuyers purchase foreclosures is the potential to score a great home at a discounted price. Generally, banks are eager to get these properties off their books and are willing to let the home go for a price below comps in the area. Other potential advantages to buying a foreclosure include:
- Potential to get a better house for the price – Since lenders often price foreclosures for a quick sale, buyers may be able to score a larger or nicer house than they otherwise would be able to afford. Foreclosures can be found at every price point, from starter homes to luxury mansions.
- Upgrades can pay off big – If you’re willing to put some sweat equity into your foreclosure, the return you’ll see on the property’s value could be significant.
Cons of buying a foreclosure
While scoring a great house at a low price seems like enough motivation to buy a foreclosure, there are certainly some disadvantages you should consider. These include:
- You may have to pay cash – Some foreclosures are sold at auction to the highest bidder. If you want to guarantee you win the bid, be prepared to pay all cash on the spot.
- You may not get to inspect the house – Most foreclosures are sold as-is, meaning that the buyer absorbs any responsibility for repairs, liens or back payments on utilities. You may not have an opportunity to inspect the home before the purchase, so you will assume the risk for whatever you may find once you get inside.
- You may not qualify for a loan – Some lenders have restrictions on distressed properties, making financing a foreclosure a challenge.
- The property may need serious repair – If the home has been vacant for any period of time, serious issues could have occurred. It’s possible that the property has been vandalized or looted. The previous owner may not have kept up maintenance because of financial hardship. With the utilities shut off, pipes could have frozen, pests could have invaded and cracks may have formed in the walls and foundation.
Is a foreclosure right for you?
The pros and cons listed above are just some of the issues you should consider when buying a foreclosure. If you’re serious about purchasing a distressed property, make sure to do your research and prepare for a closing process that can be more stressful and complex than a traditional sale.
Side Note: Zillow lists homes as “pre-foreclosure” after one mortgage payment is late. Online information can be misleading. Your best resource is a local Realtor.
Susan Matthews is a Realtor serving the greater Charleston area with Coldwell Banker Carolinas. Contact her for more info on selling your home.
