The houses that sell for significantly lower prices often are in disrepair or in unstable communities. They don't come with warranties, and sellers aren't required to disclose any problems. Buyers, particularly those who don't pay for a professional home inspector before closing on the deal, may find themselves mired in unanticipated repair bills. Not Proprietary Information Auction guide companies aren't the only ones with access to information about federal government sales programs. In fact, the information is available free or at a low cost from the government.
Some agencies maintain mailing lists to notify people about upcoming sales.
They may charge a subscription fee to maintain the list and cover their mailing costs. Information about foreclosure sales also is available online, through the Multiple Listing Service, a database used by real estate agents, and through newspapers and other publications. The classified or business sections of national or local newspapers often publish information about upcoming sales. In addition, trade papers like Commerce Business Daily occasionally publish information on sales programs. Your local library or Chamber of Commerce may maintain subscriptions for public use.