There are often challenges with homes that sit vacant for extended periods of time. A good Realtor can help you to focus on properties that do not have the types of problems that you describe. It is also critical to have a good home inspector go through any house as part of the buying process.

Here is a resource to search for homes in Cape Coral: http://www.greaterftmyers.com/cape-coral.php

Good luck with your search!

Jim,

You absolutely right to be concerned about damage caused by long owner absence without air conditioning. One of the biggest concerns is the presence of "mold." Warm and damp environments with low ventilation can ecourage mold growth.

Most foreclosure purchases do involve a little risk as well as a commitment to make some repairs. Our recommendation is to proceed with your plan but to do so cautiously. Your ability to spot potential problems may be very beneficial in determining whether or not a property is worthy of pursuing.

Best wishes.

If your interests expand to the Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, or North Port areas, we would be happy to provide you with the support you are seeking.

The Eckler Team
Michael Saunders & Company
billeckler@michaelsaunders.com
941-408-5363

Thats a good question. Any home left empty for a long period of time will develop some kind of problems.
However the good news is you have the right to inspection before the purchase. If you find problems we can reflect the offer on the property. Evenhomes with problems are good buys if the price is right.
I am the broker of Vadala Realty here in Cape Coral, A FHA inspector and Certified HUD Consultant.
I have over 35 years in the building business from up north.
Our office is available to assist you with unlimited resources to offer.
Feel free to browse our website at: http://www.sellcapecoralflorida.com

Professionally Yours,

Tony Vadala

Hi Jim,
Great question! Yes some homes have seen damage but not typical. I have an investor that has purchased 5 foreclosure homes and had renters waiting to move in. He had damage from the previous owners but not due to weather or being empty; other then simple pest problems. You really need to evaluate each home individually. Another idea, pre foreclosures sometimes still have owners living in them or renters. They maintain the electric etc. and they eliminate the issues with being vacant. I hope this was helpful.
Have a wonderful day
Nancy


Nancy Doyle
239-209-2237
nancy.doyle1@comcast.net
search Cape Coral mls at http://www.nancyd.listingbook.com

Are you buying the home as an investment? Or are you going to live in the home? I was in Cape Coral a couple of years ago and even then there were alot of rental properties. If you're going to relocate to Cape Coral you might want to rent first then take your time to buy a home.

The homes in Cape Coral are built on slab foundations with concrete walls. So the greatest concern might be in roof trusses, roof surfaces and interior walls which are wood covered in sheetrock. Everything else is repairable.