Buying foreclosures
Buying foreclosures is a hot topic for first time buyers. Here in San Antonio the first most asked question I get from first time buyers is “What kind of deal can I get on a foreclosure?” The second most asked question is “If I get an inspection can I negotiate a lower price for repairs?”
To answer the first question. Right now the average sales price to list price ratio is 97.1% for foreclosures sold in the last two months as of today July 23rd. This means foreclosed homes are selling on average for 2.9% less than current list price. In some cases the sales price is much lower than list price in others the sales price actually higher than the list price. HUD foreclosures are currently running a special first time buyer program that allows buyers to purchase a home with as little as $100 down payment. The buyer still has closing cost but this program has been such a success that buyers are finding themselves in competition with multiple offer situations. Buyers can also ask for up to 3% closing cost for HUD homes. The biggest twist this prgram brings to the market is that the buyers must offer a full price offer to get the $100 down program. With that in mind I think the foreclosure market is a great place to start looking for deals that might fit buyer needs here in San Antonio.
In reguards to repairs or reduction in price. Don’t hold your breath. Be prepared to pay for all repairs out of your own pocket. In some cases buyers can find a Fanne Mae home that offers a rehab loan or a HUD that has a repair escrow already attached to the listing for a specific repair HUD has identified as a must fix.
Covenant Partners
http://www.sahomelocator.com
