Maple Ave
Plumsted, NJ 08533

• You can shop for properties in the 'as is' category meaning there will be no negotiating the price conditioned upon known or unknown areas needing your attention. This goes for the condition not only of the structural or cosmetic aspects of the property, but also the condition of the title to the property which could have liens, encroachments, or easements. You should research the property carefully so that you can build the mitigation of these issues into your price.
• When a property is advertised as a 'fixer upper' you can be certain that work will be needed to bring it up to livable or marketable standards. If you are not handy or knowledgeable about building design or construction, you will need to hire inspectors and contractors, so that you can plug cost estimates for repairs and upgrades into your overall pricing strategy.
• Contact the listing broker or seller and ask for an appointment to see it. Do a complete walk through inside an outside so you can see for yourself what condition it is in. Drive around the area to make certain it is a community that is right for you.
• Have a qualified appraiser or real estate professional supply a valuation. Money spent on a real estate appraisal in such circumstances is money well spent.
• Have an attorney or title company search the title to the property noting any other liens, restrictions, or encumbrances that may exist.
• Have your financing lined up so that you know you will be in a position to close when settlement time arrives.
• Calculate the cost of repairs that you will have to make and present a reasonably adjusted offer to the listing broker or seller.

In each of these scenarios you still must perform your due diligence. Search for the property that suits you. Make a visual inspection of the property and neighborhood. Contact the person or entity that controls the property: Realtor, property owner, lender, or court appointed receiver. In your offer include all the conditions you need to protect yourself including inspections, appraisal, title search, responsibility for repairs, and satisfactory financing. Read and understand the appraisal, inspection reports, and title report. These items affect your bottom line when the transaction is completed.

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