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How to Finance an REO - Call (888) 319-3789REO listing agents have some degree of influence over the banks asset manager and like to work with investors who have done there research and due diligence. In an REO situation, the bank will handle eviction of the defaulted prior owner, if necessary, and may do some repairs. In a REO situation, a bank will typically set the opening bid at a foreclosure auction for at least the outstanding loan amount and, if there are no bidders that are interested, then the bank will legally repossess the property, and as soon as the bank repossess the property, it is listed on their books as REO (Real Estate Owned) and is categorized as an asset (non-performing). This is the optimum time to learn about REO's and cash flow as there will be a large transfer of properties needed to liquidate the bank owned inventory. It is critical for REO buyers to communicate competence, integrity and ability to close escrow to the listing REO agent. Many REO investors are sitting on their hands waiting to see how government legislation will effect REO inventory in the coming months before they make any offers. Many novice investors make bad purchases by under estimating the repair costs on REO properties. Most REOs are vacant without the water or power turned on. It is hard to verify the functionality of plumbing and electrical systems without visual inspection by an expert. This step must be taken when evaluating REO deals. Many REO homes have not had water service for a long period of time and will require a complete landscaping job. Many investors make the mistake of guesstimating market rents when trying to determine monthly cashflow on an REO purchase. Even if an REO has fresh paint, brand new carpet, new appliances, perhaps even a new roof or siding, it doesn't mean everything in the house is new, or even works. REO buyers should be aware of the following FHA loan qualification guideline: Last two years Income should be the same or increasing. Remember that these guidelines are subject to change at anytime and you should stay abreast of current loan programs. Many banks are moving away from paying typical closing costs for the buyer on REO. Some fees such as transfer taxes, county and state fees, are borne by the buyer and not the bank. Banks do not often pay for pest reports, repairs or home warranty plans. FHA requires satisfaction of appraisal conditions prior to closing. Yet, REO banks typically will not authorize repairs prior to closing. Then, toss into the mix that bank repo buyers rarely want to pay for repairs before they own the home. You should check market prices for homes in your region and calculate the cost and repair time, before deciding that an REO property is a good deal. Buying an REO property is not a simple and straightforward as some imagine. Banks may verbally accept your offer, while trying to find a better offer. In a down market loaded with opportunity, investors should focus on having a successful first project not buying the cheapest house. A good first experience will lead to multiple purchases and ultimately wealth when the up cycle occurs. REO: this is an acronym for Real Estate Owned, and this used to be called the bank department that managed the properties the bank had reacquired through a foreclosure process at the court house steps. REO Part II: Banks have departments that must maintain these homes, keep the lights on and keep the taxes paid. Banks cannot legally sell real estate directly to the public, so they enlist the services of a real estate broker to list the home for sale. Real estate brokers in turn with the REO manager within the bank to negotiate through an offer. We expect REO activity to spike in the coming months as foreclosure delays and moratoria implemented by various state laws come to an end |
