Can a bank require buyers to pay association fees on foreclosed properties?

Full question:

Is it legal for a bank selling a foreclosed property to have an addendum that states the buyer is responsible for any monies in assesments, such as association fees on a townhome in arrears?

  • Category: Real Property
  • Subcategory: Foreclosure
  • Date:
  • State: Minnesota

Answer:

A warranty deed guarantees that the seller (grantor) is transferring a clear title to the property. It includes assurances that the grantor owns the property and has the right to sell it, typically stating that the property is free from liens or encumbrances. In contrast, a trustee's deed does not provide these guarantees and conveys the property 'as is.' This means it may come with existing liens or other issues.

When buying a foreclosed property, buyers should conduct their own inspections and due diligence. This includes checking for any senior liens, physical defects, or the need to evict occupants. If the bank’s addendum states that the buyer is responsible for any outstanding association fees, this is generally permissible, as the buyer accepts the property with any existing obligations.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

The 120-day rule for foreclosure refers to a requirement that lenders must wait at least 120 days after a borrower defaults on their mortgage before initiating foreclosure proceedings. This rule is designed to give borrowers time to catch up on missed payments or explore alternatives to foreclosure, such as loan modifications. It is important to note that this rule may vary by state, so checking local laws is advisable. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*