Thinking of buying a foreclosed piece of property? Unlike a non distressed property, there are some unique things that you may not have thought of that need to be addressed.

You might have read how some people have damaged or sabotaged there home during the eviction process. Some of these actions have not been evil in intent, but deal with matters of habitability.

Electricity, we use it every day at home and at work but usually ignore it until the bill comes along. Can you imagine what it would be like to come home to a dark home? To not be able to cook dinner, take a hot shower, or store food in the refrigerator? Gas and electric can be turned of by the utility for non payment , even while people are still living there.

 When this happens people can get very resourceful in there quest for power. I have seen electric meters where small gauge wires were used to circumvent the meter and get power back. This creates a huge fire risk and can damage the meter socket, leading to a major repair. Sometimes people will buy a small generator and bootleg it into the house electrical system to get minimum power. Finding there modifications can be trickey.

Water is another issue. In San Diego, the water is charged to the address not the individual; It is wise to check with the water authority before purchase to see if there is an open outstanding balance still at the property address. This balance will have to be paid before you can get water service reestablished. Try to avoid this costly surprise if you can
 
I hope my thoughts will help you in your quest for a new home. I welcome your comments. You can e-mail me at SanDiegoInspector@sbcglobal.net
Richard Overton