What is a Foreclosure?
If a borrower of a mortgage loan defaults on the repayment of principal or interest payments, the lender invokes its right to attach the mortgaged property. The lender later sells these foreclosed properties through auction.

Tips for buying a foreclosed property
?Research: The process of buying foreclosures homes begins with the initial short listing of the potential options, and ends with taking the final possession. Therefore, the first step here is to scan meticulously, the listings of available properties.
?Visiting. It is very important to visit the property personally, to get a real look and feel of it. This could be a crucial step where any issues with the upkeep of the house can be discovered. This can help in taking the important step of either dropping the option or negotiating a better price for it.
?Reclaim. In some cases, the right to reclaim the property may be bestowed upon the original owner. As per such clause, the original buyer becomes the owner of the house after repaying the auction price paid, along with interest, to the buyer of the foreclosed house. Such clause should be given due consideration, while deciding whether to go ahead with the process.
?Expert Representation: Expert advice becomes an important requirement, as the proceedings for buying foreclosed homes require much more paperwork and understanding of laws than a conventional property purchase. In addition, many auctioneers entertain potential buyers only upon the representation by experienced professionals.

Benefits of buying a foreclosed property
?Discounts. One of the most distinguishing and attractive feature of foreclosed property is the discounts they offer, which can vary from as low as 10% to as high as 50%.
?Resale. Most properties appreciate over time. Foreclosures homes offer better returns because the original auction price paid is much lower.
?Maintenance. If, while purchasing, due regard to the condition of the property is given, there can be little post-acquisition outlay in terms of maintenance.