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        <title>Boca Raton Real Estate News</title>
        <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/boca-raton-news/</link>
        <description>Visit our Boca Raton real estate blog for up-to-date events and current home buying or selling advice. Boca Raton, Florida is a hot spot in today real estate markets.</description>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/red-light-cameras-in-boca-raton-taking-your-safety-into-the-citys-hands.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/red-light-cameras-in-boca-raton-taking-your-safety-into-the-citys-hands.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Red Light Cameras are Installed in Boca Raton</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
It turns out that the crown jewel of Florida isn't just about high end living and unparalleled luxury; the community that is Boca Raton, Florida also makes safety and family values a top priority. Evidence? Look no further than the new red light cameras at six intersections throughout the city, only just made fully operational on April 14, 2012.


The 12 new red light cameras have been installed via contract with American Traffic Solutions at 6 high traffic intersections throughout the city. The cameras will run 24 hours a day, and are estimated to bring the city over $400,000 per year in much needed funding from ticket fees; the city receives $75 of every single driver who's successfully fined.


Here's a sample list of who's getting caught on camera in Boca Raton:




Eastbound and Westbound traffic on Glades Road at NW. 2nd Avenue


Eastbound and Northbound traffic on Glades Road and St. Andrews Boulevard


Northbound and Southbound traffic on Military Trail at Spanish River Boulevard


Northbound and Southbound traffic on federal highway at NE. 20th Street


Northbound and Southbound traffic on Congress Avenue at Clint Moore Road


Eastbound and Westbound traffic on Glades Road at NW. 15th Avenue (delayed; estimated to be operational in August)




Many of the drivers in Boca Raton may see the installation of these cameras as a frustrating hassle, but you'll be hard-pressed to find a parent who isn't happy with the extra safety measure. Some of the area politicians that opposed the institution plead that the increased frequency of rear end accidents caused by the red light cameras would outweigh the potential decrease in red-light-runners. However, since statistically a T-bone crash is much worse than a rear end accident, the argument doesn't seem to hold much weight. 


After months of deliberation and studying the effects of such cameras in other states and cities, Boca Raton finally gave the go ahead for installation, determining that safety is what matters most in the end. Cops love them, drivers hate them, but in the end anything that can potentially make the streets safer is worth a try. Plus, the extra money can be used to further improve one of the most luxurious cities in Florida!
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            <pubDate>Wed, 02 May 2012 10:44:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/activities-offered-by-the-city-parks-and-recreation-department.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/activities-offered-by-the-city-parks-and-recreation-department.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Activities Offered by the City Parks and Recreation Department</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Boca Raton has been described as a “Mecca” for outdoor enthusiasts and it certainly lives up to its name.  But there are dozens of other available activities to suit every taste.  Perhaps one of the most important venues for finding a variety of activities offered at reasonable prices is the Boca Raton Department of Parks and Recreation. This department offers events and activities that will appeal to different age groups.  The Department of Parks and Recreation runs three community centers within the city, including the Boca Raton Community Center.  This center sponsors literally hundreds of classes throughout the year.  Some of the classes are geared towards adults, and some towards children.  It’s impossible to cite the whole list of activities, but a representative sampling should suffice.


Many Boca Raton adults enjoy playing bridge and other card games.  The center offers three levels of bridge instruction: beginner, intermediate, and advanced.  After the instructional period, class members get to put what they have learned into practice by playing a few rounds.  Instruction is continued during this play.  The classes last for two hours and are offered for eight weeks.  Unusual classes like woodturning are also offered.  Lathes, tools and other materials are provided.  Class members make several things including a box, bowl and candlestick.  The classes last for eight weeks, three hours per class.


Dog obedience classes are especially popular and fill up fast.  There’s a beginner dog obedience class and Intermediate one and Intermediate two.  There’s also a puppy kindergarten for puppies ten weeks old to five months old.  It emphasizes housebreaking, walking on a leash, and discouraging biting and chewing. Initially the dogs are taught basic commands and then can graduate to agility exercises. 


There are also many classes for people who have a particular interest such as learning sign language or those who want to learn about “The Top Twenty Secrets of Great Singers: Their Mindset and Methods.” This class teaches those who aspire to be musical performers the musical and non-musical techniques involved in a memorable performance.  And for those interested in fitness, there are a myriad of activities: Yoga at the Beach, Tai Chi, Trim Weight Control, and Judo.


There are also a plethora of children’s classes.  An abridged list would include: violin, archery, baton twirling, pom-poms, tumbling, yoga kids, Bieber Fever (singing, acting and dancing), Musical theater, Mommy and Me Music for Toddlers, and Broadway Superstars.  There are also several types of dance programs emphasizing creativity, rhythm and coordination.  And a special boon to working parents, there’s a summer camp program for children in grades one through eight that runs for six weeks.  As can be seen, the programs offered by the Parks and Recreation Department are plentiful.  Don’t see anything you like?  Check out their website.  There’s sure to be something that will appeal to you!
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            <pubDate>Thu, 12 Apr 2012 07:22:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/excellent-housing-buys-can-still-be-had-in-south-east-florida.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/excellent-housing-buys-can-still-be-had-in-south-east-florida.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Excellent Housing Buys Can Still be had in Boca Raton, Florida</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Economic news in the United States is increasingly more positive.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average recently soared above 13,000 and the unemployment rate is slowly decreasing.  Many economists feel that these milestones indicate that the American economy is beginning to come out of a lingering recessional era.  Most experts believe, however, that the housing market will be slower to respond to the improving economic climate. 


As most people are aware, certain areas of the United States were disproportionately affected when the housing market crashed in late 2006 and 2007.  Florida was one of the hardest hit states.  Consider that during the 1990s and early 2000s, home prices in Florida were ten percent above the national average.  In 2005, the average home price in Florida was nineteen percent above the national average!  Since late 2010, however, home prices in Florida have lagged about twenty percent below the national average. It has been a truly stunning reversal of fortune.


For several years now it has been a buyers’ market.  This is because homeowners and investors have been forced to sell real estate they purchased at the height of the financial boom.  Many of these properties, especially in Florida and a few other states, are “upside down.”  This means that the owner owes more on the mortgage than they can get when selling the home. Because many homeowners also lost their jobs due to the recession, they are no longer able to afford to stay in their homes.  This also holds true for individuals who bought property in Florida for investment purposes. Unfortunately, most of the aforementioned property owners have had to sell their homes at a substantially reduced price or face foreclosure. 


There’s been a great deal of misfortune and personal family tragedy associated with this situation.  Foreclosures in many areas of the United States have been rampant, but this is especially true in Florida.  For example, the Palm Beach County Clerk reported that there were 1,198 new foreclosures in February of 2012.  That’s up 58.5% from the same month in 2011.  Obviously, the sheer number of these foreclosed homes will work to keep real estate prices depressed for the foreseeable future.  Housing market experts predict that the price of the average home in Florida won’t come close to the national average for at least two years. So, for those who are interested in buying a home in one of the most desirable areas of the United States, 2012 should provide the perfect opportunity!


If you are in the Market to sell or buy real estate in Boca Raton, please use our contact form below or call us.


#form-contact#
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            <pubDate>Mon, 26 Mar 2012 07:01:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/florida-to-receive-extra-money-under-the-bank-settlement-program.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/florida-to-receive-extra-money-under-the-bank-settlement-program.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Florida to Receive Extra Money Under the Bank Settlement Program</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
President Obama recently announced the terms and conditions of the national bank settlement program.   The banks are participating in the plan to provide redress for their part in the “robo-signing” scandal.  Two states, Florida and California, were able to obtain special considerations from the five major banks involved in this settlement.  In Florida, the banks will be required to pay a monetary sum that is in addition to what the state will receive under the terms of the national plan.  Under the provisions of this side-deal, Florida will be allotted an additional 1.8 billion from Bank of America, 1.2 billion from Wells Fargo, and 1 billion from J. P. Morgan Chase.  This will provide Florida with a total of 8 billion dollars to aid struggling homeowners and help them avoid the foreclosure process.


The deal that Florida struck with the banks is very similar to the national plan; the only difference is that Florida will receive more money than it would have been entitled to under the terms of the national plan. Both plans will provide credits to banks for reducing the loan amounts on first and second mortgages, for following through on short sales whenever possible, and by granting deeds-in-lieu of foreclosure.  It is hoped that this will help stem the deluge of short sales and foreclosures that are flooding the Florida market.  The sheer number of these “distressed homes” is helping to keep real estate prices depressed in South Florida.


In addition, after a short sale or foreclosure, the borrower is typically left with a deficiency judgment. This means that the borrower has to pay the lender the difference between what the lender was paid (under the terms of the short sale or foreclosure) and what was actually owed. A considerable amount of money may be involved.  In effect, this means that the borrower’s responsibility does not end with a short sale or foreclosure.  The financial stability of the buyer may be compromised long after he has ceased to own a distressed property.  Under the terms of the national bank settlement, the banks will receive credits for not imposing these deficiency judgments.


The banks involved in the national bank settlement are responsible for implementing the above provisions within a specific time frame.  Seventy-five percent of the obligations have to be completed within two years and one hundred percent have to be completed within three years.  If a bank fails to meet these deadlines, it will be assessed millions of dollars in punitive damages.  This would be in addition to the amount of money the bank has already agreed to pay.  Hopefully, this bank settlement program will help alleviate some of the difficulties faced by homeowners, and the Florida real estate market will begin to rebound.
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            <pubDate>Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:25:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/unique-palm-beach-county-events.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/unique-palm-beach-county-events.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Unique Palm Beach County Events</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Boca Raton is conveniently located in Palm Beach County.  And Palm Beach County, as many people are aware, offers some of the most unusual and entertaining activities available in South Florida.  Consider, for instance, two popular attractions that take place in nearby Wellington, Florida. 


The first occurs every year, from January through April.  Those are the months of the polo season in South Florida.  The game of polo used to be the preserve of only the rich and famous.  Even the spectators were from the upper echelons of society.  All that has changed, however.  Now, during the first four months of every year, families can attend these entertaining matches every Sunday.  Yes, there are still private boxes and reserved seating available, but general admission seating can also be purchased – at quite reasonable prices.  There are lots of tailgating parties for those who want to make a day of it.  Attendees can choose to watch the action live outside or on several closed circuit televisions that are strategically placed inside a large pavilion arena.  Inside, complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres are served, and a full brunch can be purchased on Sundays. In addition, there are several restaurants to choose from, including gourmet fare in the Paddock Restaurant as well as lighter offerings in the Deli, Terrace Restaurant and Trophy Room Restaurant.  Most people have never even attended a polo match, but once they have experienced the fierce action that ensues in these medium and high-level goal matches, attendance at the International Polo Club in Palm Beach becomes a Sunday ritual.


The Equestrian Festival also takes place in Wellington each January through April.  This famous horse show features both hunter and dressage classes.  It is one of the oldest and longest (it lasts twelve weeks each year) horse shows in the United States.  Riders from all over the world bring their horses to compete.  The purses are generous, and this attracts some of the best horsemen in the world to the South Florida region.  Even Olympians regularly compete in the show.  There are also children’s classes, which help to make this an experience the whole family will enjoy.  The Equestrian center covers 140 acres so there is plenty of parking and places to picnic or tailgate.  As can be seen, Boca Raton provides a convenient gateway to some of the most interesting attractions available in the South Florida region!
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            <pubDate>Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:43:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/the-housing-market-in-palm-beach-county.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/the-housing-market-in-palm-beach-county.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>The Housing Market in Palm Beach County</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
President Obama recently unveiled a plan to help homeowners who owe more on their homes than their homes are worth (This is commonly referred to as being “underwater.”).  The President announced that his administration and several major mortgage lenders (such as Bank of America and J. P. Morgan Chase) have reached an agreement to provide aid to these owners.  The banks are participating in the plan to provide redress for their parts in the “robo-signing” scandal.  Under this arrangement, the banks have consented to reduce some of the principal on many  “underwater” homes.  In addition, homeowners who qualify will be able to reduce their interest rates and take advantage of the current historically low rates.  This may provide a measure of relief to struggling homeowners, but most housing market experts agree that it is only a beginning.  The recession in the housing market is not going to go away over night.


In Palm Beach County – home to Boca Raton – more than a quarter of the homes sold in 2011 were either a short sale or bank owned properties (often referred to as “distressed” homes).  This statistic is in line with both Florida (22%) and national (23%) statistics.  In February of 2012, nearly 1200 Palm Beach County homeowners went into foreclosure.  There will most likely continue to be many foreclosed homes entering the marketplace in the coming months.  The banks have largely resolved paperwork snafus that kept many foreclosed homes off the market for an extended period of time.  These homes will now be released for sale.


Many market economists are predicting, however, that lenders may be less likely to foreclose on properties in the future.  They maintain that 2012 will be the year of the short sale.  They are predicting this because it is quite costly for a bank to foreclose on a property.  It can be very expensive to evict current owners from the home, complete the necessary paperwork, and maintain the property.  Also, many cities and municipalities are beginning to pass laws that require banks to adequately maintain the foreclosed properties they own.  This is because many abandoned properties have been vandalized and ill maintained.  They are considered community eyesores.


The upshot of all this is that there will be more distressed homes on the market in 2012.  In addition, the banks will be more likely to have made necessary repairs to these homes in an effort to appease municipalities and attract approved buyers.  Hence, 2012 should provide prospective buyers with an unprecedented opportunity to score a phenomenal piece of property in South Florida - and at an extremely reasonable price! 


 


#blog-foreclosures#
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            <pubDate>Sat, 17 Mar 2012 05:03:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/mizner-park-is-a-boca-raton-gem.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/mizner-park-is-a-boca-raton-gem.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Mizner Park is a Boca Raton "Gem"</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Mizner Park is a beautifully renovated mall in Boca Raton.  It’s an outdoor mall that takes full advantage of the temperate Florida climate.  The architecture is a striking Mediterranean Revival. There’s a lush, tropical atmosphere with fountains and decorative walkways.  Many people come to the mall to just enjoy a stroll or sit and relax on one of the outdoor benches.  Of course, many others (especially the women) come to shop! 


Mizner Park is home to many shops and boutiques.  There are stores that cater to those interested in women’s apparel, accessories, jewelry, men’s apparel, shoes, housewares, pets, and children’s apparel.  Chain stores are represented as well as boutiques that carry many one-of-a-kind items.   Some of the stores even offer goodies to munch on while you shop.  Speaking of munching, Mizner Park also offers thirteen eateries.  Family friendly Ruby Tuesday’s is there as well as upscale Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.  There are thirteen eating-places in all, offering such diverse fare as Mexican, Italian and Irish foods.


The Boca Raton Museum of Art is also housed at Mizner Park.  As its name implies, it features prominent works of art by local, regional and even international artists.  Antiques are also spotlighted at the museum.  And if a traveling art show is coming to town, it’s likely to be found at the museum in Mizner Park.  Outdoor concerts are also held in a large amphitheater in Mizner Park.  In April alone there will be a free concert by the Lynn University philharmonic, an annual Easter in the Park worship service, and the Boca Bacchanal Grand tasting event.  This fun affair includes wine tasting and sampling foods from several local restaurants. Be sure to arrive early, as it can get crowded!


And as if that’s not enough, Mizner Park also boasts rental apartments.  There truly is something for everyone at Mizner Park. So for all your shopping, epicurean and entertainment needs, check out Mizner Park.  You won’t be disappointed! 


Contact us about Boca Raton Real Estate 


#form-contact#
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            <pubDate>Thu, 15 Mar 2012 06:05:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/theres-a-restaurant-to-suit-every-palate-in-boca-raton.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/theres-a-restaurant-to-suit-every-palate-in-boca-raton.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>There's a Restaurant to suit every palate in Boca Raton</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
There are a plethora of restaurants to choose from in Boca Raton.  There’s Chinese, barbecue, South American, Thai, fusion, Japanese, German, Turkish, Indian, Greek, French, Vietnamese, and Italian.  The list goes on and on! And that’s just the immediate Boca Raton area.  Within a twenty-five mile radius, there are even more varieties to be found.  No one ever has to crave good food in South Florida.  It’s usually only a stone’s throw away!  And if you ever want to get a sense of how popular and reasonable many of these restaurants are, check out the parking lots during the early bird special time slots (usually between 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.). Excellent food at reasonable prices obviously appeals to many people!


The immediate Boca Raton area hosts such nationally recognized chains as P. F. Changs, The Cheesecake Factory, Capial Grille, Morton's, and T. G. I. Friday’s.  Many people enjoy the delicious fare offered at these nationally popular restaurants.  Most restaurants in the region, however, do not belong to chains.  They are privately owned, local restaurants that cater to individuals who enjoy fine food. The Dubliner Irish Pub is one such restaurant.  It’s located in Mizner Park, an open-air mall.  It’s possible to eat inside in the attractively decorated pub or outside in the attractive Florida weather. It’s your choice.  And if you eat outside, Fido is welcome to accompany you.  In fact, “man’s best friend” may be served some water and a choice morsel before you’re served! The Dubliner serves Irish food at reasonable prices.  It represents casual family dining at its best.


For the health or weight conscious, there’s Season’s 52.  At this trendy restaurant, there are no meals over 475 calories.  Full nutritional information is available.  The restaurant is particularly famous for its flat bread pizzas.  People come from miles around to partake of these tasty, healthy “indulgences.”  There are also a variety of desserts.  They are served in tall shot glasses and clock in at about 250 calories each.  There’s not even a need to feel guilty!


As can be seen, there truly is a Boca Raton restaurant to suit every palate in the greater Boca Raton area.  So check out the Internet, talk to acquaintances, or look in the newspaper and other regionally produced publications.  You’re sure to find a restaurant that tickles your fancy in Boca!
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            <pubDate>Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:42:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/disclosing-distressed-homes.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/disclosing-distressed-homes.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Distressed Homes - Palm Beach Real Estate</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
It is projected that more distressed homes – short sales or homes in foreclosure – will enter the Palm Beach real estate market in 2012.  This is due to a confluence of factors, but the result is that there may be just as many or even more distressed homes on the market than regular sales.  Obviously, this provides opportunities for the discriminating buyer to find that “dream home” at an affordable price.


However, not all buyers are interested in buying a distressed home.  In fact, for a variety of reasons, some buyers actively avoid such homes. Buying a short sale home (a home where the owner owes more than the home is worth) can be a lengthy and complicated process. The mortgage lender wants to obtain the highest possible price, so they often insist on waiting for multiple bids.  This has sometimes extended the home buying process for unreasonably long periods of time.  When a home is in foreclosure, the previous owners have oftentimes abandoned the home. This has lead to properties that have either been vandalized or ill maintained. The bank is responsible for such homes, but sometimes fails to meet this responsibility. Most buyers are aware that foreclosed homes are often sold “as is.” And some buyers don’t want the headaches that can come with such a purchase.


In Palm Beach County as in most of the United States, home are listed through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Recently a Palm Beach newspaper, “The Palm Beach Post,” claimed that many banks, like Wells Fargo, were discouraging the MLS from disclosing that a property was bank-owned.  Many lenders feel that there is a pervasive public stigma against such properties. They believe that the perception is that such properties are always damaged and in need of major repairs. As the banks are quick to point out, this is not always the case. Now-a-days banks are doing more to repair such homes before putting them on the market.


In some parts of the United States, the MLS requires that the listing fully disclose who owns the property. But until recently, this has not been the case in Palm Beach County. Agents would show properties to prospective buyers without necessarily knowing whether they were short sales or foreclosed properties. This made it difficult to direct buyers interested in such properties in the right direction. And it wasted the time of buyers who had no interest in such properties. However, beginning in early March, the regional MLS, which services Palm Beach County is requiring full disclosure. This is a boon to buyers, as the real estate agent can now focus on properties that better meet their needs and requirements. 


Palm Beach &amp; Boca Raton Real Estate


#boca-gated-communities#


 
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            <pubDate>Mon, 12 Mar 2012 20:19:00 -0400</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/distressed-homes-in-south-florida.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.bocahome.com/blog/distressed-homes-in-south-florida.html</link>
            <author>admin@bocahome.com (Caesar Parisi)</author>
            <title>Distressed Homes in South Florida - Boca Raton Real Estate</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
The housing market is again beginning to pick up in South Florida.  Historically low interest rates and low housing prices are driving the surge in sales.  It is still possible to purchase foreclosure homes and short sale homes at drastically reduced prices, but the supply is dwindling. If anyone is interested in buying a home at bargain basement prices, the time is now. 


According to the “Bloomberg Report,” homes in or nearing foreclosure accounted for 24% of housing sales nationwide in the last three months of 2011.  People are always looking for a bargain, particularly for such a costly purchase as a new home.  Also, there has been a delay in banks disposing of foreclosed properties because of federal and state investigations into flawed bank foreclosure documentation.  The banks have since resolved most of these situations.  For these two reasons, foreclosure-related sales are expected to increase in 2012. 


For those interested in purchasing a foreclosure property, a systematic approach is best.  First and foremost, a prospective buyer should obtain preapproval from a lending institution.  Attractively priced properties in good condition can sell extremely quickly.  If a purchaser waits until after he has found his dream home, it may take too long to obtain financing and he may miss out on the sale.  It’s also important to find a real estate agent who works directly with the banks that own foreclosed properties.  Such realtors usually have a relationship with the banks and this may help facilitate a sale.  In addition, such a realtor may have knowledge of possible foreclosures that haven’t even been listed yet.


Before going out to look at properties, it’s helpful to visit an Internet site that details foreclosed homes in the area of your interest.  Such sites provide a great deal of information about the home as well as pictures and virtual tours.  This helps to narrow down your search.  It also provides a frame of reference in terms of what comparably priced homes in a certain area are selling for. Such sites also disclose how long a home has been on the market.  No matter what the bank is asking for a home, if it has been on the market for a long period of time there is some wiggle room in terms of price.


Once you have completed all of this “due diligence” and found a home you like, make sure the house is structurally sound.  Cosmetic fixes are not expensive; structural fixes can be exorbitant.  As most foreclosed homes are sold “as is,” it’s very important to assess the condition of a home before making a purchase offer.  There remains a large inventory of homes at discounted prices, so it’s still possible to find the home of your dreams. 
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            <pubDate>Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:14:00 -0500</pubDate>
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