: Hire a title company or attorney to ensure there are no hidden liens that you will become responsible for after purchase. 3. Financing and Making an Offer How to Buy a Pre-Foreclosure Home - SmartAsset.com

: Unlike final foreclosure auctions, you can often negotiate a walkthrough with the owner. Consider bringing a contractor to estimate repair costs.

: Check public records to determine the outstanding loan balance, unpaid taxes, and any other liens (judgments, HOA dues) against the home.

These homes are often "off-market" and not listed on typical sites like the MLS .

: Sites like Zillow or Auction.com allow you to filter for "Pre-Market" or "Pre-Foreclosure" listings.

: Real estate wholesalers, attorneys, and specialized agents often have access to lists of distressed properties. 2. Perform Extensive Due Diligence