Almost every buyer I meet asks about buying foreclosures in Los Angeles, because, like everyone, they are looking for a deal. And I always hear "I am looking for a deal." Fortunately, or unfortunately, there are no deals in the desirable neighborhoods of Los Angeles. I use the term "no deals" loosely, because who knows, maybe someone will get lucky. But Los Angeles was not hit like many other parts of the country. Prices came down, but they did not plummet, and the real deals are … [Read more...]
When Buying a Los Angeles Home at a Foreclosure Auction Beware of Unknown Matters
We are back to the point about buying a Los Angeles home for a bargain. You generally get what you pay for. If you are thinking of buying a home at a foreclosure auction then beware of unknown matters that could pop up, as you will probably not be offered title insurance on the property. In a regular sale, the Seller will be paying for your title insurance. You could be inheriting a bunch of problems which will make it difficult for you when it comes to selling the property. What … [Read more...]
A Los Angeles Foreclosure Alternative – Deed in Lieu
We often talk about different short sale incentive programs—HAFA, TAP, Bank of America Cooperative. Some of these programs also offer options and incentives for borrowers who are considering a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure. I do not write about deed-in-lieu very much, but thought it an appropriate topic since I have gotten a few calls and emails from agents who want to 411. A deed-in-lieu is simply the opportunity for a borrower (mortgagor) or homeowner to convey all the interest in the … [Read more...]
Buying a Los Angeles Foreclosure or Short Sale, Hold on, it Could be a Bumpy Ride
If you are thinking of buying a Los Angeles foreclosure or short sale you are going to have to have a lot of patience and put a great deal of trust in your real estate agent. Buying a Los Angeles Foreclosure When you are buying a foreclosure the human touch is basically removed from the process. You are dealing with a lending machine. There are no warm and fuzzy letters to write to the "seller" telling them how much you love the house, and how you have made your best offer and hope that … [Read more...]
Thinking of Walking Away from Your Los Angeles Home? Make Sure You are Not Saddled with a Tax Bill
If you are thinking of walking away from your Los Angeles home, or doing a short sale on that home don't automatically assume that you will not have taxes to pay on the forgiven portion of your debt. There are laws in place that protect the distressed Los Angeles homeowner from having to pay taxes on the forgiven portion, but you need to make sure that you meet the requirements for this tax relief. What are the requirements for tax relief on mortgage debts forgiveness? The Los Angeles … [Read more...]









