| Most properties, which were repossessed, end up | | | | enough to cover the unpaid mortgage balance and |
| with the banks who own the mortgage. After going | | | | the foreclosure cost. In most cases, this amount is |
| through the foreclosure auction without any bidder, | | | | well below the property's current market value. |
| the properties' deeds or titles are reverted to the | | | | Negotiating with the Banks |
| banks. Hence, the term bank foreclosed homes or | | | | With the banks at a disadvantage, buyers and |
| real estate owned. | | | | investors can easily ask for bigger discounts especially |
| Although it may seem that these foreclosure homes | | | | if the property has been in the market for a month |
| are not as attractive as the other real estate | | | | or more. If you want to enjoy additional discount, |
| properties, you will be surprised at how profitable | | | | you can choose not to use the bank's escrow or title |
| they can be. There is actually just one reason why | | | | company. On the other hand, some banks agree to |
| such properties offer great return potential. | | | | lower the list price further if you choose to obtain |
| Banks NEED to Sell | | | | your mortgage loan from them. |
| If you are a mortgage lender, you inevitably incur | | | | When negotiating closing costs, you should inquire |
| losses due to defaults or failure of homeowners to | | | | about transfer taxes, repairs, pest reports and other |
| pay their mortgage dues. Such losses can be hard to | | | | required fees which are usually paid by the buyer. |
| recover since the actual money is tied with the | | | | You can negotiate for the bank to shoulder such |
| house. To make matters worse, the bank's inventory | | | | costs. |
| of foreclosure properties could be growing, leaving | | | | Lastly, when buying bank foreclosed homes, be sure |
| them with more holding costs to consider. | | | | to consult a lawyer which specializes in real estate |
| In situations like this, the smart thing for the bank to | | | | laws. This way, you fully understand the terms of |
| do is to sell the properties at an amount that is | | | | the sale and your rights. |