Do Foreclosed Properties Need an Inspection

In The Twin Cities Minnesota Area the number of foreclosures is increasing. Many times these properties are distressed due to lack of maintenance during the redemption period. Often times the homes suffer damage such as frozen water pipes or are just plain neglected. These homes can sit vacant for many months while the foreclosure process proceeds. Some of these homes are put back on the Real Estate market with little or no repair work and listed "as is" with the seller (the bank) disclosing no knowledge or damages or previous repairs.  buyers must be cautions when proceeding with this type of transaction, the best advice is to hire an independent home inspector who will perform an objective evaluation of the major systems and components of the home.

A vacant residence presents its own types of problems. Although vacant residences typically are unfurnished, meaning that we can see virtually everything, residences that are vacant for any period of time can be expected to present problems upon move-in. Some structural and mechanical components and systems that have not been used on a daily basis can be expected to fail upon first use. A home is meant to be used, meaning that a fully functioning home requires proper use, care, and maintenance. When a residence is vacant, there is no one to do regular monitoring and maintenance.

Think about the "haunted house" in your neighborhood or city when you were growing up. It was vacant and dilapidated, and deterioration was continuing on a daily basis because no one was around to take care of it. Same thing with any vacant residence, new or used. Deterioration is an ongoing process; it does not quit simply because a residence is vacant. We recommend that, before moving in, you compile a list of qualified service personnel (plumber, electrician, appliance repair, etc.) and telephone numbers to assist you in the event of any emergency. The new childrens movie Monster House brought back memories of the mysterious run down haunted house in our neighborhood for me.

Don't buy a Monster House have it inspected and leave the monster to us.