What It Is

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.

A lot of times the banks don’t want to deal with having to foreclose a home, so they will allow the owners to sell it during the pre-foreclosure period. You can get a great bargain in buying a pre-foreclosed home.

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.

- Since you won’t be at an auction, you will be given more time to talk to the home owner about any questions you may have concerning the house.

- Because the masses are more aware of where and when the government auctions are happening there are not as many investors competing for a pre-foreclosure property.

- More time to evaluate financial scenario then at an auctioned property.

- Auctions can be either overwhelming or lead to egotistical or emotional decisions.

- You have time to have a pre-foreclosed home inspected resulting is less risk.

- All you’ll need to buy a pre-foreclosed home is a down payment for as low as a few hundred dollars. At a government auction you would need more cash up front.

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.