Foreclosure Blight

Some foreclosed-upon homeowners deface their own residences when they know they are going to lose them. These homeowners sometimes trash their homes in frustration. Some take everything out of their home, such as fixtures and fans, and leave trash behind.

Attempting to fight foreclosure blight, some local governments have levied fines against lenders who fail to maintain their distressed properties. The challenges of rising foreclosure rates are significant, so check for blight before you purchase a home in a neighborhood with a high number of foreclosed houses.