Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Buy a cheap house: How to buy foreclosed house or homes at auction


I have bought and sold many foreclosures. I started in the 1980's when many fewer people were doing it. The process varies from state to state. In both FL and NC the auctions are held on the courthouse steps, in the county seat. In FL, lets say the home is sold for $100K. If you don't research the title, you may be purchasing a second mtg. You would then be responsible for the first mtg and the second. It is very important to do your homework. Then, you will need 5% down in the form of cash or a chashiers check made payable to the clerk of the court. The balance will be due after 10 days also in the form of cash or cashiers check. Not very often, the owner will be able to hold off the foreclosure process in that 10 day period by filing for chapter 7, 9, 11, or 13. When that happens, the courts will refund you your money but it takes about 4-6 weeks. In NC, you also need 5% down on the day of the auction but now the 10 day period after the sale is open to anyone that wants to still put in an "upset bid". This process continues until a 10 day period goes by without anyone bidding again. Then the balance is due in the form of cash or cashiers check. All other mtg's are wiped clean in NC. The process is different from state to state. I would suggest you go to the courthouse and lookup the upcoming sales (they are posted somewhere just ask) and watch the process. Then, contact and pay an attorney for advice on how it works in the state you are in. I should say I have all but left the foeclosure business because of the volitility of the market. Be very careful, do your homework, and make sure you know what you are buying.

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