A real estate transaction in which the sale price is insufficient to cover the seller’s outstanding mortgage balance and associated costs requires lender approval. The phrase indicates a prospective buyer’s interest in finding such properties within their immediate geographical area. As an example, an individual might search online for listings of homes being sold for less than the amount owed to the bank, specifically those located nearby.
Locating distressed properties can offer opportunities for buyers to acquire real estate at a potentially reduced cost. This type of transaction can be beneficial both for the buyer seeking a more affordable purchase and, in some cases, for the seller aiming to mitigate further financial repercussions of foreclosure. Historically, these situations have arisen during periods of economic downturn, leading to increased availability of such properties in certain areas.