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7 Buyers Tips for REO properties

By
Real Estate Sales Representative with Long and Foster Smith Mountain Lake Office

7 Useful Tips for a Buyer that is considering an REO property:

1. The Best time to make an offer on an REO is toward the end of the month.  Banks and financial institutes like to have as many REO properties out of their available inventory by the end of the month.

2. Consider the area that the REO is located and current market conditions in that area.  If the community that the REO is located is well maintained, mostly full time homeowners versus tenants,  the REO property has a much better opportunity to appreciate higher in value.

3. Buyers of REO properties use information provided on the  listing or Internet but this information may be misleading or incomplete, always visit an REO property before making an offer and don't rely on photos.  

4. Work with a real estate agent that understands the market and the   REO  process.

5. Become familiar with a strategy on what Price to offer on an REO.  Look at previous REO sales to see the list to sold prices.  Are there other REOs in the area.   

6. Pre- approvals or proof of funds need to be readily available and must be sent in with an offer on REO properties.   It also pays to check and see if the Bank only accepts pre-approvals from specific lenders, as a pre-qualification before accepting an offer.

7. Knowing a Qualified Home Inspector, carpenter, plumber or electrician,  can help the buyer in preparing their  offer and also alert them to the cost of needed repairs.

Ethan Hutten
Americom Realty - Warner Robins, GA
When EH Hutten Talks....

Thanks for the great tips.  Here are a couple more I learned the hardway. 

1.  Make sure that the contract clearly states that the seller (bank) will have all utilities turned on during inspection/due diligence period. 

2.  Negotiate upfront who will be responsible for termite inspection, damage and treatment if needed. 

Dec 16, 2009 01:13 AM
Glenda and Steven McDaniel
Long and Foster Smith Mountain Lake Office - Smith Mountain Lake, VA

Thanks for spelling out more about the process of purchasing an REO property

Dec 16, 2009 01:44 AM
Marty and Laurie Gale
Utah Realty - South Jordan, UT
Utah Realty | 801-205-3500 | UtahRealtyPlace.com

Great Article. Thanks for the Information. It should help my Real Estate Business in Utah!

May 08, 2010 02:51 AM