Friday, January 20, 2012

Looking for a 'Screamin' Deal'?

Hi there! Today's topic: Screaming Deals. Real Estate buyers are always looking for the best value in property. So let's talk about value - specific to real estate.

In today's real estate market - generally speaking - buyers are receiving a great deal of value with their property purchases. This is because our real estate market has experienced decline over the last couple of years. When prices fall a buyer gets more 'bang for the buck' from their purchase = greater value = screaming deal. Nothing new here - all of us hear about the struggling real estate market in the news - day after day after day after . . . Remember: It is a buyer's market - and opportunities abound!

That brings us to back to screaming deals, and, foreclosures - their presence being a solid indicator all is not well with the housing market. However, purchasing a foreclosure is the greatest kernel of opportunity for a buyer looking to land a 'screaming deal'. Remember this: even though the presence of foreclosed properties in the market are an indication the market is not 100% healthy, foreclosed properties are absolutely 100% opportunity for the knowledgeable and ready buyer.

Unfortunately, not all foreclosures are created equal. To put it another way, a prospective buyer has to be very, very careful and well guided when considering a foreclosed property. Why, you ask? Two words: as is. Foreclosed properties (also called 'bank owned' properties are sold 'as is'. This means if a person purchases a foreclosed property with major plumbing issues, they are the buyer's major plumbing issues. Foundation issues - buyer's problem. If the roof leaks - the buyer owns the leaking roof. 'As is': two very small words that can pack a powerful punch!

To help alleviate some of the 'as is' risk I strongly recommend a potential buyer invest in a home inspection - a contingency to the purchase commitment. Have your target property inspected by a trained professional. If there are problems they need to be identified before a purchase price is finalized. Additionally, find a professional, experienced real estate agent to help guide the process.

Earlier I mentioned a buyer not only needs to be knowledgeable but also ready. A prospective buyer needs to be ready to act quickly when the target property is offered for sale. A prospective buyer should be pre-approved to make the purchase commitment if financing will be a consideration.

Make a plan to be the best prepared buyer in the market - as opportunities can evaporate quickly.

The final item I would like to mention is really exciting: I have joined the Realty Trac Agent Network! You can check out my Realty Trac search tool here.

Realty Trac is a nationally recognized resource for property foreclosures. They provide a powerful, up-to-date search engine that will give serious buyers of foreclosed properties an incredible advantage when trying to secure the somewhat elusive 'screaming deal'. Want to better improve your odds with a foreclosure opportunity? Check out my Realty Trac page now - or call me . . . now!

The clock is ticking - your dream property might be slipping under your nose at this very moment!

Sincerely -

Jon Drews - your real estate partner - and area foreclosure expert.

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