How to Identify and Legally Acquire an Abandoned House
Introduction
Identifying an abandoned house from the outside can be a challenging task, especially if you are looking to potentially acquire it. This article will guide you through the process of spotting the signs of an abandoned house and the legal steps to acquire it if you believe it is already abandoned.
Identifying an Abandoned House from the Outside
Neglected Appearance
One of the first things to look for is a neglected appearance. Overgrown lawns, untrimmed bushes, and weeds can indicate a lack of maintenance. If the exterior is unkempt, it may be a sign that the house has been neglected for some time.
Boarded Windows and Doors
Windows and doors that are boarded up or have broken glass can be another indicator that the house is abandoned. This not only suggests that the home has not been entered or occupied for a significant period but also leaves the property vulnerable to vandalism.
Deteriorating Exterior
Look for peeling paint, crumbling walls, and a roof in disrepair. These signs often suggest that the house lacks proper maintenance and that it has not been occupied in a long time.
No Utilities
If you notice that there are no lights on at night or no signs of water usage like hoses or sprinklers, this could be a sign that the house is abandoned. The absence of recent utility payments and usage is a clear indication that the house is not being lived in.
Mail Buildup
A mailbox overflowing with mail or packages is another common sign that the residents are no longer there. If the mail has been piling up for a while, it may be a indication of an abandoned property.
No Signs of Life
Pay attention to signs of life such as cars in the driveway. If there are no cars or signs of people living there, it could be a sign of abandonment. Also, note if there are stray animals residing in the house, which may indicate that the property is not being cared for.
Graffiti or Vandalism
A house that has been vandalized or tagged with graffiti may be abandoned or neglected. This can be an easy visual indicator, but remember that vandalism can also be an attempt to gain access to the property, so be cautious.
For Sale or Foreclosure Signs
If there are signs indicating that the house is for sale or in foreclosure, it is possible that the house is abandoned. Property that is listed for sale under these circumstances may be a hint that the current owner has abandoned the home.
Unkempt Yard
A yard that is not maintained and has trash or debris scattered around can also be a sign of an abandoned property. Check for signs of plant growth in odd places, which can also be a sign of neglect.
Legal Steps to Acquire an Abandoned House
Research the Property’s Tax History
After identifying an abandoned house, one of the first steps is to go to the county tax collector’s website and look at the property’s tax history. Check if the property is behind on its taxes by searching for the property’s tax ID or address. The property owner’s name and mailing address will also be available. If there is a different mailing address, it may be a sign that the property is abandoned. Contact the owner to discuss the possibility of purchasing or leasing the property, promising to make improvements and maintain it. The owner might be willing to gift you the property or rent to you for the labor of maintenance.
Check for Mortality Information
If the mailing address is the same, check the name against death certificates and state vital statistics databases. If there is a death certificate, try to find the next of kin. If you cannot find the next of kin, it is most likely abandoned.
Investigate Foreclosure Status
If the property has reached tax foreclosure status, you can talk to the property assessor and the county supervisor. There may be the opportunity to purchase the property, especially if you are low-income and eligible for rent subsidies. In some cases, they may quitclaim the property to you if you agree to maintain it.
Check Corporate Status
If the owner is a corporation, check its status for repayment and disposition. If the corporation no longer exists or never existed in the first place, the property has no legal owner. You may proceed to move in legally.
Title and Lien Search
After verifying that the property is abandoned, pay for a title and lien search to ensure there are no liens on the property. If there are liens, you may be unable to sell the property or get a mortgage. If you are okay with this, you can proceed to treat the property as your own, and the government will back you up.
Conclusion
Identifying an abandoned house and legally acquiring it can be a complex process. By following these steps and being cautious, you can ensure that you are making a sound decision. Always conduct due diligence and seek legal advice where necessary.