If you're searching for a new home, you may have come across references to Housing and Urban Development (HUD) homes. HUD offers government mortgage insurance programs and loans. But what is a HUD home, exactly?
Here are the basics to help you with your home search:
HUD Homes: The Basics
HUD homes are foreclosed properties reclaimed by the government. When a buyer uses a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan to buy a residential property, they risk losing the property entirely if they cannot make their mortgage payments. The government then re-sells the homes at a low price to make up for the money spent paying off the rest of the mortgage.
Every HUD house gets an appraisal to determine the best price, but they are still often below market value. This makes them attractive options for first-time homebuyers, flippers or anybody looking for a good deal.
Incentives to Buy HUD Homes
The HUD agency offers many incentives to homebuyers to encourage the sale of these foreclosed properties. These incentives include grants, vouchers and special buyer programs to assist with mortgage payments, down payments and more. Buyers with careers in public service or who work with nonprofit organizations are also eligible for some of these special incentives.
Buying a HUD Home
It's important to note that the process for buying a HUD home differs from other homes. You won't find listings for these properties in the usual places like MLS or search portal sites. Instead, you can search and browse HUD listings on their website.
HUD homes are different from other properties in that you have to buy them at auction. You need a licensed real estate agent to represent you, to bid on and purchase a property.
Is a HUD property right for you? There are many factors to consider, but knowing the basics will help you make your decision. Consult a real estate professional for advice on the best way to proceed with your home search.
About the Author
Amie Lindwall-Belile
As your real estate professional, Amie has an extensive knowledge of the local real estate market to meet your needs. Born and raised in Fairfield County she understands the true value of this area. If your money’s involved, then the stakes are high. You can have confidence that Amie will get the job done. Licensed in 2004, she won her office’s Rookie of the Year award. Since then, she has been recognized as a multi-million dollar producer, an Honor Society member, Agent of the Month on numerous occasions and has received various other awards for her successes.
Having graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a B.S. in Communications focusing on technology, she is able to provide her clients with the most comprehensive cutting edge services and tools. She is the co-founder of an organization close to her heart, The Dennis Lindwall Foundation, running annual events to raise money for pediatric cancer related causes. Over the years, the Dennis Lindwall Foundation has donated more than $100,000 to these charities.
Whether you are buying or selling a home in Fairfield County, you can rest assured that she will work very hard for you. With Amie, you will get the professional yet personalized care that you deserve. Take the first step into this exciting process, with Amie Lindwall-Belile.
