Why do I need a Realtor to buy a Foreclosure?

WHY DO I NEED A REALTOR TO BUY A FORECLOSURE?

We received a call at the office today and they forwarded it to me because I've had some successful transactions with HUD homes and foreclosures in San Antonio.  The gentleman was very nice as I explained the difference between lender-owned and HUD-owned foreclosures and how we could find both types of listings.  Then he said "I haven't decided if I'll be using a Realtor to purchase a foreclosure or not".

I didn't pause very long before I gave him a few reasons why he would need a Realtor to purchase a foreclosure in San Antonio.

FIRST:  "You need to know that lender-owned properties in San Antonio are typically listed with local Real Estate Agents so you will have to have an Agent to purchase one of those (whether it's the listing agent or a buyers agent), unless you want to go knocking on the bank doors and ask if they have any foreclosed homes available that aren't listed with agents".

SECOND:  "HUD homes are not easy transactions, and it would be in your best interest to have an Agent who is associated with a HUD-approved Broker, and who has successfully completed a HUD foreclosure sale to avoid many of the headaches associated with the contract-to-close process".

THIRD:  "Buying a home, whether you'll be using it as your homestead or as an investment, is one of the biggest financial moves you will make in this lifetime.  It is truly critical to have a professional guide you through the process - and that's a Realtor".

It's in your best interest to use a Realtor to purchase a foreclosure!