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Now Could Be A Good Time To Buy A Top-Notch Home

Some Well-Maintained & Updated Homes Are Better Values Than Foreclosures

When all of the comparable homes in an area are foreclosures and short sales, you could get a really good deal on the nicer, well-maintained and updated homes.

A broker recently called me regarding one of her listings. It’s a super nice property that’s been upgraded to the hilt – but every single comp within five miles that has sold in the last twelve months has been a foreclosure or short sale. Her problem was not that her listing wouldn’t sell – but that it might not appraise.

In certain areas, finding good comps for nice homes has become quite difficult – and depending upon the appraiser, you might not get the appraised value that is specified in the contract. Obviously, this is more of a problem for the sellers than for buyers.

When home prices are rising, homes that are not in good condition often sell for more than they should – and will appraise for more than they should, as well. The nicer homes tend to pull the values up. But in a declining market, homes that are in need of repair – or a quick sale – tend to pull the values down… therefore the sellers of nicer homes find it difficult to obtain top dollar – or a higher appraised value – for their properties.

So while you’re out trying to find the best foreclosure or short sale for your clients – take a look at some of the nicer listings. If you find a motivated seller, the best deal just might not involve a foreclosing lender.