I would suggest finding who th elisting agents are who list foreclosures in your area. While it is true that the banks are losing money on these properties, they are also becoming more realistic in regards to repairs.

I am closing today on a lender-owned property. The bank DID fix water valves (by hiring a plumber) in order to facilitate inspections. They are starting to realize that if they want something to sell, then they have to make it easier for buyers to buy. Many buyers' loans are FHA, which require utilities to be on and systems to be working in order to close.

I know the listing agent for that property has a plumber he uses for all of his needs.

Good luck and warm regards,
Dee Nofziger

In our area, Coldwell Banker Heritage has a huge foreclosure business. They represent the bank and list these bank owned properties. However, they do not do any repairs. In fact, the banks rarely will have repairs made on these properites. They are already losing on them and do not want to lose more. Its the buyers of the properties that usually will be the one hiring the plumbers. Coldwell Banker has a concierge program that provides a list of reputable companies which Realtors will recommend. Maybe your husband could join the concierge program. Go to http://www.cbdayton.com to find out more.