Lisa Crowder

Any agent can assist you in viewing properties that are listed for sale. I don't know whether this particular property is currently listed for sale or not. There's no listing in FMLS on this street at the price shown on Trulia and I don't subscribe to RealtyTrac so (like you) I can't see the street number for this particular property.

If you're looking for a foreclosure, your best bet is to find a good buyer's agent in the part of town where you're looking who is familiar with the foreclosure process. Be aware, foreclosures and short sales are generally not for the faint of heart. They can take a much longer time to complete the process than a typical home sale and, with foreclosures particularly, the property is likely to be in a very rough state when you move in and require a lot of repairs (and likely appliances, fixtures, etc.).

If you're not familiar with the process, I would seriously urge you to find a good buyer's agent with significant experience in foreclosures and short sales who is familiar with the area of town you're looking in. Then get that agent to track down this property and others that might suit you.

Even if you had been able to find the agent who listed this property, it's really not in your best interest to see the property with the listing agent -- that agent is contractually obligated to represent the seller. He or she cannot advise you and is required to report back anything you say that's relevant to the sale to his or her client (the seller).

So, please. If you're motivated to buy a foreclosure, do some interviewing of agents first. Find one you like, who responds to your needs, communicates frequently and well, and knows not only the area you're interested in but also the process for working with banks.

Best of luck! - Thu Apr 30 2009, 11:43