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Zombie Properties: What You Need to Know Before Buying

An Abandoned Tillmans Corner House with an Overgrown LawnAre you considering single-family Tillmans Corner rental properties as an investment? If yes, you need to be aware of the “zombie property” (also called a “zombie foreclosure”) phenomenon. A zombie property is a property that has been abandoned by the owner but has not gone through the formal foreclosure process. This can generate additional hurdles for potential buyers. This blog post will describe a zombie property and discuss the process required to acquire one.

What is a zombie property?

A zombie foreclosure arises when the homeowner abandons a property before the completion of the foreclosure process. If a property owner defaults on their mortgage, they may assume they must move out urgently, even though foreclosure has not yet begun. Alternatively, they could abandon the property for other reasons. Since the foreclosure process isn’t completed, this zombie property is still owned by the homeowner, not the bank or lender. These properties usually end up vacant for long periods, falling into disrepair and causing safety and property value problems for the entire neighborhood. In addition, the home’s financial responsibilities keep growing for the owner, from property taxes to Home Owners Association assessments and fines – and more.

How can I buy a zombie property?

As you can imagine, buying a zombie property can be complicated. While that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider purchasing zombie properties, you must be aware of the risks and take extra steps to protect your investment. Here are a few things you need to do if you’re interested in buying a zombie property:

  • Do your research: Before making an offer on a zombie property, you must thoroughly understand what you’re getting into. This includes researching the property, the neighborhood, and the current market conditions. If you are new to the place, the best strategy is to contact a local property management company with vast experience in investment property transactions.
  • Get a good home inspector: A professional home inspection is even more vital if you like to buy a zombie property. Remember to employ a qualified inspector who can spot any and all potential pitfalls with the property.
  • Have realistic expectations: It’s worth acknowledging that a zombie property is, by definition, a distressed property. This signifies that it will likely need repairs and renovations and may not meet your usual standards. Don’t forget to factor this into your offer price.
  • Get expert help: Purchasing a zombie property can be problematic, so it’s essential to have an experienced real estate agent, Tillmans Corner property management company, and an attorney on your side. They can help you navigate the process and protect your interests.

If you’re planning to purchase a zombie property, be sure to do your research and get expert advice. You may restore a zombie property into a thriving investment with some extra care and attention.

At Real Property Management Azalea City, we work with rental property investors to find and assess properties for sale. Our local market experts can help you comprehensively evaluate the market, set accurate rental rates, and optimize your investment. Contact us online to learn more.

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