I have found 5 properties in the last 2wks that were NOT what they seemed in both description AND pics. Were not talking the simple stuff. I looked at a home with LOTS of pics, needed paint etc, wasn't expecting it to be perfect. I verified the taxes/liens. I got LUCKY that a County lady who was familiar with one place, asked me if I was sure I wanted to live there. Long story short..last winter the home was abandoned with EVERYTHING (incl food) left in it. They did not turn the water off, and the pipes busted during winter. Then the racoons dug a hole in the roof (not shown in pics, and google camera's didn't cover this area) and went in for the old food. Now the house has sat since last Nov with the weather pouring in, and the critters living there. She also mentioned all but one of the windows were gone (ebay pic shows windows just fine) Just because you verified the taxes/liens, you must do MORE. Google earth the place. These are old pics, but the camera's will take you to most ALL angles of the property, plus you get a better idea of the neighborhood by going down a few blocks. If you can't see much, call a neighbor or business (you can see the signage on your google earth trip) and ASK questions (how long vacant, does it look ok from the road) I have found people to be very nice and helpful (especially when they hear you might be their new neighbor) Check the seller. A power seller with a ton of sales is not going to ruin his entire business by trying to dupe you. I am seeing these properties listed more by people with under 30 sales. Not to mean that there aren't some newcomers climbing the sales ladder that are good people, but you need to research much more and unless those photo's/video's have dates, be wary and proceed slowly. I got my hopes up on 5 places and let down, but at least I still have my money. I hope this helps some of you from being taken for a ride!
Orignal From: BIDDING on REAL ESTATE? BE CAREFULL!!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment