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Zombie Properties: What You Need to Know Before Buying

An Abandoned Bronx House with an Overgrown LawnAre you interested in single-family Bronx rental properties as an investment? If this is the case, you should be informed about 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 yet proceeded through the formal foreclosure process. This can cause some additional hurdles for potential buyers. This blog post will describe a zombie property and explain the actions you have to perform to get one.

What is a zombie property?

A zombie foreclosure happens when the homeowner abandons a property before the foreclosure process is finished. If a property owner defaults on their mortgage, they may think they need to move out right away, even though foreclosure has only started. Alternatively, they may 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 become vacant for long periods, falling into disrepair and causing safety and property value issues for the entire neighborhood. In addition, the financial responsibilities of the home keep piling up for the owner, from property taxes to Home Owners Association assessments and fines – and beyond.

How can I buy a zombie property?

As you may expect, purchasing a zombie property can be complicated. While you should still think about buying zombie properties, you should be familiar with the risks and take extra steps to protect your investment. Here are a couple of things you perform to do if you’re interested in buying a zombie property:

  • Do your research: You have to fully understand what you’re getting into before making an offer on a zombie property. This implies researching the property, the neighborhood, and the current market conditions. If you are new to the location, your best course of action is to contact a local property management company with extensive experience with investment property transactions.
  • Get a good home inspector: A professional home inspection is even more crucial when looking for a zombie property. Make sure you work with a qualified inspector who can see any potential issues with the property.
  • Have realistic expectations: It’s critical to keep in mind that a zombie property is, by definition, a distressed property. This indicates that it may not meet your usual standards and will probably require both repairs and renovations. Don’t forget to factor this into your offer price.
  • Get expert help: Purchasing a zombie property might be challenging, so it’s vital to have an experienced real estate agent, a Bronx property management company, and an attorney on your team. They can help you navigate the process and protect your interests.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a zombie property, be sure to do your research and get professional advice. You can transform a zombie property into a profitable investment with some extra care and attention.

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

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