Renters Beware: Foreclosures Affect You Too
While many renters probably feel a bit more secure than their homeowner
counterparts during the current economic crisis, now is not the time to let down your guard. Home foreclosures are on the rise and steadily climbing and even though renters may be glad they do not have to worry about paying for a mortgage, fixing broken faucets, or paying property taxes, there is still cause to be concerned.
If a landlord’s property which you rent can be foreclosed on too. The difficult part is that the landlord is not required to give tenants notification of such foreclosure, therefore the only notice a tenant may receive is a notice tacked to the front door of the property, disclosing the foreclosure status of the building. Once the property is in foreclosure, tenants most likely will be required to move. While the landlord is legally required to honor any signed lease, the foreclosure company is not, no matter what your legal lease states.
The process of foreclosure may take several months to complete and tenants may be allowed to live on the premises until that time. Renters will also be required to pay rent in full during the time of the foreclosure proceedings. It may be wise to contact your landlord or the property management team and request in writing the directions for paying rent during the foreclosure proceedings.
Once you receive a notice of foreclosure, it would be in your best interest to find a new place to live as soon as possible so as to not get wrapped up in any red tape. If you plan to vacate the rental property, put it in writing as per your lease agreement and make certain you will not be charged any fees for leaving the property early. If your landlord assures you that you will not face penalties for essentially breaking your lease, get that information from the landlord or property manager in writing.
In order to find a new place to live, it is essential as a renter that you always keep your credit rating to the good, as your new landlord may require a credit check prior to renting to you. Additionally, a bad credit score could initiate the need for a larger security deposit before you are approved to move into a new rental.
The sooner you can make plans to move, the more money you will save. Last minute rentals can cost you more than prior arrangements, so start making a plan as soon as you know foreclosure is imminent.
A life insurance does not cover a dental insurance and similarly a home insurance does not cover other insurance deals that fall nearby.
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