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Property ManagementWhen making an REO purchase, it is important to understand market value in your chosen area. REO offers are usually FAXED to the bank because the listing agent needs your originals and there is no formal presentation so keep in mind nothing happens evenings and weekends because banks are closed. An REO can be financed through a number of methods including cash, hard money, conventional and FHA. Many investors overestimate current and future market rents when analyzing a potential REO cash flow rental house. This is a highly critical step and should involve an expert resource on real estate market rent conditions. Unlike a traditional purchase an REO buy is as is and the seller will require many disclosures to be signed that absolve them of liability. the buyer must exercise great care in analyzing their purchase. It is best that an REO investor understand a smaller slice of territory very well than have a vague understanding of a larger area. Sometimes banks will pay for repairs on REOs, but typically will not agree to do so at the offer stage. If there are problems found during a home inspection, renegotiate after your offer has been accepted. It typically takes about 30 days for an REO to be prepared for sale by the REO listing agent. In some cases they must evict the homeowner through the court system. Many REO investors use a mix of handy men and general contractor to complete their repair jobs. Discussing cash flow numbers and formulas with you CPA or real estate lawyer is a good idea to fully understand the long term tax implications of a buy, rent and hold REO deal. HomePathRenovation Mortgage Financing is special financing is available on only Fannie Mae homes you make your primary residence. REO buyers, don't rule yourself out of qualifying for FHA loan to buy a home or refinance your existing mortgage because of credit issues until a mortgage professional has reviewed your credit. You will have greater negotiating power if you make offers on homes that have been on the market for longer than 30 days. A proof of funds letter is frequently used in property short sale and REO purchases to provide explanation that a real estate investor or buyer has the ability to purchase the property they are making an offer on. Many investors shy away from REO properties or HUD homes because they feel they have less negotiating power or simply lack the capital to make aggressive offers and play along with the rules that REO lenders stipulate. The bank will not do or pay for any repairs on REO's in many cases. You will be buying the REO property as is. Make sure your offer includes an inspection contingency that allows you to withdraw if the inspections reveal significant problems. Many municipalities are fighting the subprime blight in their communities by levying heavy code enforcement fines at REO buyers. REO tip..if you are unclear if a street or neighborhood is rough, you call call the local sheriffs department and ask if they have a high volume of calls to the area. Buying a bank-owned or REO property may take an equal amount of time and angst, but the property will be vacant and easier to inspect. In fact, some banks will put a little money into prepping the home for a better sale for them: paint, handyman work, landscaping, etc. Homes are sold without guarantee because the bank has never lived in the home and is selling as-is. REOs are a safer method of buying a home than foreclosures and short sales, but you might be paying more than you bargained for and be faced with repairs and replacements. |
