Tax deed sales

[Brian Holt]

Hi all,

I'm wondering if anyone here has had success reaching out to occupants of a home you bought at a tax deed sale? I'm wondering the best approach to get off on the right foot as I imagine it can be a pretty sticky situation. Any letters that have gotten a good response from a resident? Would love a sample if so. I am attending a tax deed sale later this month and have driven by most of the listings and many of the ones I am interested in appear to still be occupied. Thanks in advance for any and all input.

Thanks,

Brian

[Brandy Orner]

My experience with owner occupants has always gone very well. I always attend to my purchases in person and start out by saying something to the effect of, "I assume you know your home just went through a foreclosure process, I'm the new owner. Is there anything I can do to help you?" That question always stops them in their tracks and throws them for a loop. Considering the fact they didn't have the money to pay their property taxes, it is likely not the only bill they've avoided paying. You may be the first person they've spoken to in months that will have approached them in a positive light. That being said, I HAVE been greeted at the door with a shotgun. I also check with the assessors office prior to the sale to see if the occupant is the owner or if the tax bill is mailed elsewhere, that fact is considered when I calculate my margins for that property because I always throw in a little padding to allow for "former owner care". Eviction in some states can be a complete pain and can get expensive. I've paid for a U-Haul rental, prepaid for a few months storage, paid 2 weeks rent in a short term tenancy building, cash for keys etc. Also, while you're being all nicey-nice with them, have them sign a Quit Claim Deed, just an additional CYA. In years of real estate investing, I've never had to evict anyone. *knock wood* Not even the guy with the shot gun.