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Property ManagementPositive cashflow reo houses are abundantly available in the Southern California Real Estate market, in particular the Palmdale Lancaster area has great deals for investors. Most foreclosure auctions do not result in bids because, if there was enough equity in the property to satisfy the loan, the owner would have probably sold the property and paid off the bank. Many times homeowners get in over their heads when it comes to purchasing a new home. If they have taken out a loan from the bank and are unable to make their payments their home will be turned over to the bank. From there the bank will place the property on the market for auction or sell. These types of properties immediately become REO Properties and are generally a steal to catch. Although speculative investing is blamed for many of the current economic problems, knowlegeable investors will ultimately end up being a large part of the the solution and help liquidate the bank owned inventory. 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. Just because an REO has a low list price does not mean it is a great deal relative to current market value. Look at the last three months of comparable sales for that neighborhood to determine how much this REO is worth. Try to use only those homes that most closely match the REO regarding square footage, number of bedrooms, baths, amenities and condition. Many of the poor condition and damage issues associated with REO homes is due to the homeower taking out their anger on the property. A novice agent who is eager to succeed can be trained by a savvy investor to work in the REO market. Local unemployment stats should be factored in when determining cash flow on an REO property. 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. You do not have to use Fannie Mae's selected title, settlement, or escrow companies on an REO purchase. You may designate the title, settlement, or escrow company of your choice, subject to the terms of the contract. Bank REOs homes are rarely in turnkey condition. Many have been stripped or vandalized, and some are victims of deferred maintenance. REO lenders with cash buyers don't have to worry about the transaction closing. Lenders often deny loans for pre qualified buyers because the buyers' qualifications sometimes change upon further scrutiny. An REO can be a good opportunity to get a property below market value, with a clear title and free possession. Many REO investors are doing their work by desktop, that is, on the computer and never really get out into the field. This is a sure way to make mistakes that will hurt later. Many REO experts are involved in wholesaling their REO homes. They will pass along a deal they found in as is condition to another buyer for a nominal fee. Many investors believe that the current drop in Southern California REOs mean that the market has bottomed. 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. Because of all the unknowns and requirements with foreclosure auctions many people prefer buying an REO. |
