Can you buy a property before a foreclosure auction in Massachusetts?

[John J Murray]

Hello, 

I'm a 22 year old contractor and I've been researching different ways to acquire properties in my state of Massachusetts due to the competitiveness at all the foreclosure auctions I attend, there are a lot of "bigger fish" that have more funds to spend then I can/the bank bids them up. I was curious if anyone knows if you're able to purchase the property before the auction as in going straight to the owner. When researching I've gotten mixed answers such as you can or you can't once there is a set date for the auction. If anyone has any info on this i'd greatly appreciate it.

Thank you

[Alex Deacon]

@John J Murray we purchased hundred of properties at auction here in the Pittsburgh market. I assume its the same in most states. We have purchased quite a few before the auction. You can stop the sale if you know how to do it properly. You need to get the seller on board and have an attorney help you through the first one. The biggest challenges are 1. Is there enough meat on the bone. The sellers may owe more than its worth. 2. Finding the seller and explaining the process to them and how you can stop the sale and help them.

Seek out a good local experienced real estate attorney who knows the sheriffs sale process.