Abandoned Houses: What to Know About a Forgotten Home (2024)

When driving around neighborhoods, you might see what looks like an abandoned house every so often. The signs of abandoned places are blatantly obvious.

The boarded-up windows, the overgrown landscaping, the peeling paint, and the crumbling driveway give away the state of disrepair.

Some words, such as decrepit, dilapidated, and eerie, will often come to mind. These places give off a sense of desolation. You often wonder what happened to the family.

Sometimes, when looking at abandoned houses, you are left speechless. How could someone let a lovely property go by the wayside? What would cause them to abandon their home?

Many people are interested in abandoned houses, including the cities and towns that deal with them, the neighbors, real estate investors, or other potential buyers.

From many years of experience as a Realtor, many buyers are captivated by these homes that have been abandoned and untouched for years.

We will look in-depth into everything you need to know about abandoned houses. Let’s dive in.

What is an Abandoned Property?

An abandoned house is one that an owner has voluntarily left behind. Usually, a home is considered abandoned when the owner has not occupied it for several years.

For abandonment to be considered, there must be clear evidence that the owner has given up their rights to the property. The owner must also have a demonstrable intention to relinquish their control.

When the state cannot reach the property owner after a certain period, they can seize the property through legal action.

An abandoned house is usually left unoccupied and vacant due to foreclosure, bankruptcy, or other financial or legal reasons. Local governments are generally not collecting property taxes anymore from the original owner.

Since most homes are abandoned for financial reasons, they typically need significant renovation and repair.

One specific type of abandoned property is a condemned house. Condemned properties are vacant homes that typically have structural damage and several necessary repairs.

Common Reasons People Abandon Houses

You may be wondering why some folks desert their homes. There are common denominators in what causes many abandoned properties. These are some of the most likely reasons.

• Financial distress culminates in an inability to pay the mortgage. Missed mortgage payments occur, which leads to the foreclosure process.
• Unpaid back taxes.
• The owner passes away.
• Unwilling or unable to make repairs to the property.
• An unsafe area.
• Not wanting to sell an inherited home.
• Natural disasters.
• An unexpected quick move out of the area.

The Properties Condition Continues to Get Worse

One of the most significant problems with vacant houses is the condition worsening. It typically starts with an old roof or a basem*nt that floods.

Pipes can burst without proper heating and cooling, creating a cascade of problems.

Water damage is one of the most significant detriments to any home. With nobody to remedy these problems, mold will quickly settle into the house. Once floors and walls are soaked, mold will soon spread like wildfire. Disrepair spreads due to constant neglect.

The other problem that is a constant threat to an abandoned home is vandalism and squatters. Theft becomes a huge issue. People will steal anything of value left in the house, including all of the copper piping, appliances, HVAC, etc.

Sometimes, the homeless or squatters will take over a property.

Problems With Neglected Housing

Many problems are associated with an abandoned home beyond being tough to look at daily. Some of the issues that it creates are the following:

• Health Hazards – abandoned properties become a health hazard to the public. Someone can get seriously injured by being curious and entering the property.
• Public safety – it is not unusual for abandoned housing to pose a public safety threat due to crime, drugs, and homelessness. Criminal activity is expected, and the local police department may know the property well. Crime rates in these homes are almost always higher.
• Squatters take over – when a home becomes forgotten, they are a magnet for a squatter to occupy.
• Unpaid expenses – costs continue to accrue without payment, including utilities, taxes, and ongoing maintenance.
• Property values diminish – the surrounding properties and areas suffer from vacant property. Abandoned housing lowers the property values of other owners in the general area. Nobody wants their market value to decrease, so addressing these homes becomes paramount.

What Happens to an Abandoned Home?

Before seizing or liquidating an abandoned house, a process must occur.Usually, the first step when a property becomes forsaken is a neighbor making a complaint to local officials in the city or town hall.

A code violation complaint is usually filed in the building department or zoning office. The code enforcement officer will then try to locate the property owner. At times, locating the owner can be challenging.

If the homeowner is not paying taxes, eventually, the property will be taken via a tax sale.

Frequently abandoned houses find their way to foreclosure. The lender holding the mortgage will put it up for auction. The home will go to the REO division within the lending institution if it is not sold.

When the property is habitable, it will often be listed with a local Realtor who will try to sell it. If the home is not livable, it will be demolished and sold as a building lot.

Given these homes are usually eye soars, other homeowners will want to protect the value of their property. Empty homes can impact the entire neighborhood, especially with an unkempt yard.

How to Find Out if a House is Abandoned

The best way to determine if a property has been abandoned is to go directly to the local city hall. Ensure the address is handy so the clerk can quickly look it up.

They will likely know if the owner has deserted the property unless the abandonment just happened. They will be able to tell you the owner of an abandoned house. Their public records may provide you with the owner’s phone numbers or other contact information.

You might find a list of vacant homes in some financially stricken areas.

How to Buy Dilapidated Houses?

Lots of folks ask if you can buy abandoned homes. The answer is yes.

They also want to know how to find abandoned houses. Locating a neglected home isn’t always easy. Homes in solitude end up being cheap due to the nature of the property and the likely deplorable condition.

Many folks want to buy an abandoned house to get a good deal. Fixing up one of these rundown properties could potentially provide a significant profit. They are often the ideal properties for investors and contractors to purchase.

Several ways exist for finding abandoned houses near your location. Local government websites have listings for abandoned homes for sale. Many areas have a list of properties in decay. Usually, you can find them at the clerk’s office at the city or town hall.

You can also search for abandoned houses for sale by looking for them at auctions. Most deteriorated homes are liquidated in this fashion.

Believe it or not, some abandoned houses have been sold for free or at massive discounts.

Abandoned Houses Near Me

While finding an abandoned house in a more affluent area is more challenging, you may get lucky. When you live in a lower-income area, one of the better methods is to drive around looking for these properties.

Investors like to call this the “driving for dollars” approach. As mentioned, the tell-tale signs are boarded-up homes with tall grass, peeling paint, and rotted wood. They generally look like they are a disaster.

Seeing trash in the yard or mail overflowing from the mailbox is not unusual. Ask the mailman, and they will usually be able to tell you where to find a deserted home.

You might also want to try to locate the owner yourself. Please take a look at our helpful guide on how to find property owners. You may be able to strike a deal with the owner of the home before ownership is taken away.

The last method is to use Google for an online search. The search terms abandoned houses near me or abandoned houses near me for sale could lead to some potential results. You may pick up upon some of the government properties taken for taxes or possible auctions.

If a real estate agent has been chosen to market a foreclosure, they may even advertise abandoned houses for sale.

If that is the case, it will likely be posted on the many popular websites for home buyers. Ask your real estate agent to check current real estate listings. Local Realtors may know if there are any vacant properties.

Abandoned Haunted Houses

One of the eeriest forms of an abandoned home is a haunted house. Their owners have deserted homes across the country because of paranormal activity. People have reported real ghosts in these residences.

Real Estate agents refer to these homes as stigmatized properties.

If you are into this kind of thing, you can see why someone would skip town and leave behind their home.

Learn why property owners would want to pack their bags and not return by watching popular TV shows like Paranormal Activity, Ghost Hunters, etc.

Abandoned haunted houses have become more commonplace due to what occurred on the property and the torturous activity of the remaining spirits.

Looking at these pictures of some of the more frightening haunted houses, it is not hard to understand why. If buying an abandoned haunted house is intriguing, you can probably find one.

Here are even more pictures of some downright spooky abandoned homes. Old abandoned houses tend to pique your curiosity about what took place to cause the owner to leave. Let your imagination run wild because with these ghostly residences, it’s easy.

If you like looking at creepy abandoned houses, you’ll love some of the pictures of these properties. They are as eerie as it gets.

You can search abandoned haunted houses for sale near me to see if you find any results.

Even Mansions Become Forsaken

Believe it or not, even a mansion can become a forgotten property. There are numerous abandoned mansions in the U.S. and around the world. These homes have plenty of history. As you would expect, some of the architecture is magnificent.

You can see an example of these mansions at Architectural Digest. The photos show desolation and decay in some of these immense structures. They are not just old houses but a part of history. The background of some of these places is impressive.

Selling a Derelict House

Sometimes, a homeowner will run into a problem and snap out of it immediately. They may realize that deserting their home is not a good idea.

They will want to get their financial life back on track in times like these. Contact a real estate attorney for professional advice if you own an abandoned home.

One of the many things a real estate attorney does is provide sound guidance.

Has the government started the process of taking the home? Has the mortgage lender posted a foreclosure? You may be able to stop these proceedings.

You may still be able to sell your abandoned home. If things can be worked out, contacting a local real estate professional and having them list the property for sale will make sense.

The real estate agent can guide you on what to do. Can you make any improvements, or do you need to sell as-is?

Listing the home in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is how you will sell for the most money. However, if time isn’t on your side and you need to sell quickly, contacting a company like We Buy Ugly Houses or other investor companies like them may be more prudent.

These companies will pay cash for your home and close very fast. With a cash offer, they can take immediate possession. This is the exact kind of situation a real estate investor looks for.

Noteworthy Statistics on Neglected Homes

1. The average age of abandoned houses is 37 years.
3. forsaken houses have increased by 24% in major cities over the past decade.
4. An estimated 8 out of 10 forgotten houses have been vacant for over five years.
5. Around 42% of deteriorated houses are in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.
6. Most (67%) properties have significant structural damage.
7. On average, it takes nine months for an abandoned residence to be purchased by a new owner or demolished after being identified as such.
8. Vacant lots adjacent to these houses contribute to a 31% decrease in property values within a one-block radius.
9. The houses account for approximately 15% of fire incidents reported in urban areas.
10. The cost to local governments for demolishing or renovating a desolate house averages $45,000 per property.

FAQs

Where can I find pictures of abandoned homes?

There are several online platforms where you can find many pictures showcasing these houses. Many sites specialize in documenting and preserving the beauty of abandoned structures. An extensive gallery features high-quality photographs of abandoned houses worldwide, capturing their haunting allure and architectural details.

Another excellent resource is communities on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Flickr. Many talented photographers share captivating images of these houses, offering a glimpse into these forgotten spaces.

You can also explore photography forums and websites dedicated to urban exploration, as they often feature photo threads or galleries specifically focused on desolate houses.

Who investigates cases of forsaken properties?

The responsibility for investigation typically falls under the jurisdiction of local government agencies, such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or the local housing authority.

These agencies have specialized teams trained to handle issues related to forgotten properties. They conduct thorough investigations to determine the ownership status, assess potential safety hazards, and explore options for rehabilitation or demolition.

Additionally, they collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address any criminal activities associated with these properties.

What are the potential benefits of buying one of these homes?

There are several potential upsides to buying an abandoned house. First, purchasing a crumbling home often comes significantly lower than a fully functional property, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

Moreover, renovating and restoring a dilapidated house can provide a unique opportunity for creativity and personalization. It allows homeowners to create their dream home from scratch.

Furthermore, buying a decrepit home can contribute to revitalizing neglected neighborhoods. It encourages investment and improves property values in the surrounding area.

Lastly, some abandoned properties may be located in desirable locations or have historical significance, offering buyers the chance to own a piece of local heritage.

What are the legal implications of buying a forgotten house?

There are several legal implications that potential buyers should consider. First and foremost, it is crucial to determine the property’s ownership status. In some cases, abandoned houses may have unclear or disputed ownership, which can lead to legal complications down the line.

To ensure that the property’s ownership is established correctly before proceeding with the purchase, conducting a thorough title search and consulting with a real estate attorney is advisable.

Additionally, specific regulations or requirements for purchasing and renovating dilapidated properties may exist depending on the location. These could include obtaining permits or adhering to specific restoration guidelines to bring the house up to code.

Can I legally enter an abandoned building without permission?

Yes. The Abandoned Property Act of 2021 allows individuals to enter abandoned buildings without explicit permission. Lawmakers put this act in place to encourage urban exploration and historic preservation.

However, individuals should note that while authorities generally permit entering abandoned houses, they strictly prohibit any form of vandalism or theft, which can lead to legal consequences. Individuals should always exercise caution and respect when exploring deteriorated properties.

What resources are available for finding deteriorated homes to explore or purchase?

Besides using Google, local government websites often have sections dedicated to listing forgotten properties available for sale or auction. Regularly checking these websites lets you stay updated on the latest opportunities.

Lastly, joining online forums and communities focused on urban exploration can connect you with like-minded individuals who may have insider information about hidden gems in your area.

How do you dispose of hazardous materials found in a rundown residence?

When disposing of hazardous materials, it is crucial to prioritize safety and environmental responsibility. The first step is to identify the specific hazardous materials present in the property, such as chemicals, asbestos, or lead-based paint.

Once identified, contacting local environmental agencies or waste management authorities for proper disposal methods is recommended. Sometimes, these agencies provide specialized containers or arrange a hazardous waste pickup service.

Following their instructions carefully and ensuring all materials are securely packaged to prevent leaks or contamination. Additionally, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and masks is highly recommended during disposal.

Final Thoughts

According to the National Association of Realtors, as of March 2022, there are 16 Million vacant properties across the United States. Of course, not all these homes will turn into abandoned housing, but some will.

This resource shows the vacancy rates in states across the country.

Whether you are buying or selling abandoned property, it is essential to do proper due diligence. Connecting with a qualified real estate attorney will likely be valuable in these situations.

Hopefully, you have enjoyed what you need to know about an abandoned house. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or have an abandoned home you want to sell.

About the Author: The above Real Estate information on abandoned houses was provided by Bill Gassett, a Nationally recognized leader in his field. Bill has expertise in mortgages, financing, moving, home improvement, and general real estate.

Learn moreabout Bill Gassettand the publications he has been featured in. Bill can be reached via email atbillgassett@remaxexec.comor by phone at 508-625-0191. Bill has helped people move in and out of Metrowest towns for the last 37+ years.

Are you thinking of selling your home? I am passionate about real estate and love sharing my marketing expertise!

I service Real Estate Sales in the following Metrowest MA towns: Ashland, Bellingham, Douglas, Framingham, Franklin, Grafton, Holliston, Hopkinton, Hopedale, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millbury, Millville, Natick, Northborough, Northbridge, Shrewsbury, Southborough, Sutton, Wayland, Westborough, Whitinsville, Worcester, Upton, and Uxbridge MA.