Buying a HUD Foreclosure Property

Department of Housing and Urban Development or HUD foreclosure properties are readily available across the USA.  However the process for purchasing such a property is not the same as when buying a home from an individual.  So it is important that you read through this article before you make any decisions to go and purchase a HUD foreclosure property as an investment opportunity.

So what is a HUD property?
If a property has been purchased with a loan that is insured by the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) then the lender can file a claim with them for the balance which is due on the mortgage.  The FHA will then pay the lender’s claim and ownership of the property is transferred to HUD who is able sell the home.

How much do you expect to pay for a HUD property?
Such properties will be appraised and priced at what is considered a fair market value for the property for where it's located.  Any home that is in need of repairs will have its price adjusted downwards in order to reflect any investment that the new owner will have to make to improve the property.

What one should remember if looking to purchase a HUD foreclosure as an investment opportunity is they are sold as seen and the new owner is responsible for all repairs and improvements that are required.

Where do I find a HUD property?
The best way to view any HUD listings is to follow the state links on the HUD’s website.  However it may take a while as each state’s internet destination is set up differently, so take some time to browse their search engine and its layout.

Once you have located a HUD foreclosure property that you would like to see then all you need to do is contact any HUD approved real estate office to arrange an appointment.  These real estate agents can also be found on the HUD website.

To purchase a HUD home can I just simply make an offer for it?
Unfortunately HUD foreclosures are sold using a bidding process and there is a period (Offer Period) of time in which sealed bids can be accepted from an agent.  At the end of the offer period all the offers are opened and generally the highest bid is the one that will be accepted by HUD or they may decide to accept the bid which brings them the highest net profit.

If a home remain unsold after the initial offer period then are bids opened as they are received?

Normally when a bid is accepted you will be notified by your agent within a day or two of the expiry of the offer period and you will be issued with a settlement date (usually 30-60 days from the date when your contract was accepted).  On such sales HUD will pay real estate agencies fees of up to 6% for any homes that are sold so be aware that in order for the selling agent to be paid they must insert the wording in their contracts that verifies that HUD will pay their commission on a HUD foreclosure sale.