What Is An REO vs Short Sale?

Here's something you might be wondering: What's the difference between an REO property and a short sale?
 An REO property is one that has already gone through foreclosure and is currently owned by the bank, which is trying to sell it to a buyer.
 A short sale is a real estate transaction that takes place when an owner owes more on the mortgage than the house is currently worth and the bank agrees to a sale for less than the full mortgage balance in order to avoid foreclosure. A property involved in a short sale is not bank-owned.
 The number of short sale transactions has increased in recent years, and you're likely to run into homes like this on the market as you view properties. As with REOs, short sales can be complicated.

 
TIP
Despite what you may hear on TV, buying foreclosures is not a get-rich-quick scenario. REOs can offer a way to buy property at below-market prices, but the process is different than an average home sale.

Get In Touch

Local Expert Updates

Janie Eick

Cell: 712.339.0574

Matt Lippon

Cell: 712.330.0604

Community Updates

Gary's on the River

Gary's on the River in Spencer

Gary's is newly owned by Rabab, and sure to keep your taste buds coming back for more. The menu still features classic American comfort food, as well as some of Rabab's Mediterranean favorites. This comfortable, yet classy restaurant is perfect for date night, or family night. Gary's features their ever popular "pizza night" on Thursdays and Fridays, which is always amazing, and their "pasta night" on Wednesdays, which is sure to keep you full all night!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Spencer Find more about Spencer Learn More Here

Starbucks

Starbucks in Spirit Lake

Starbucks is located in the HY-VEE grocery store in Spirit Lake. The employees at this location are amazing. They will always provide you with great service. Even if you are not a coffee fan make sure to stop in and try one of their freshly baked muffins or cake pops!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Spirit Lake Find more about Spirit Lake

Ruthven Meat Locker

Ruthven Meat Locker in Spirit Lake

Ruthven Meat Locker is a local family owned business. Ruthven Locker at the Lakes is their 2nd retail store (with the original Meat Processing plant being a staple in the small town of Ruthven, Iowa). They are a full service meat shop providing their customers with excellent high quality cuts of beef & pork. Also provided are smoked meat snacks which they make right on site in Ruthven. Sure to please even the pickiest of palates! Ruthven Meat Locker prides themselves on promoting other local small businesses by selling them in our Spirit Lake store. You find everything from fine wood pieces to local honey, microgreens, baked goods, and delicious cheesecake. The Butcher’s Wife is always available to answer your questions and take special orders. Come on in and you’ll soon see that the rumors are true!

Real Estate and MLS Homes For Sale in Spirit Lake Find more about Spirit Lake Learn More Here

Subscribe To Our Newsletter