People investigating foreclosed homes in Florida should be aware of some of the hazards associated with abandoned homes. It’s not just your finances that can get hurt when dealing with foreclosures; sometimes you and your loved ones can court danger by merely coming onto a property to inspect it.
Abandoned foreclosures can quickly get infested with unwanted pests and not the least of these is humans. Criminals needing a place to hide their activities will sometimes move their operations into an empty foreclosed home. Homeless people find that a foreclosure provides more shelter than sleeping in the street. The person who is looking to invest in real estate can get an unpleasant – or even dangerous – surprise if they startle someone who is illegally living in the home or using it for criminal activity.
Other unwelcome inhabitants can include abandoned pets, some of which are left without food or water. A starving dog who still thinks he’s guarding his territory is not something the inexperienced should deal with. Cats and smaller pets may be stressed out and attack a person attempting to take them to a safer location. In cases like these, it’s best to inform animal control and try to give the animal some access to water if it’s safe for you to do so.
Of course, there are a lot of members of the wild kingdom who are happy to take up their abode in a foreclosed home. In Florida, unfortunately, this means that alligators, poisonous and constrictor snakes, feral hogs and other species might be lurking on the property. While most wild animals really prefer to stay away from people, some might decide that you are a threat. Be very careful where you put your hands and feet. When exploring a more rural home, be sure to wear stout boots and pants.
Swimming pools deserve a special mention here, as they can contain a soup of noxious fluids, wandering wildlife or who-knows-what at the bottom. Avoid going near them or touching the water. You can always drain the pool later if you decide to buy, but for now, keep away.
It should go without saying that children and pets should stay at home when you investigate a foreclosure, or any home that you have reason to believe would contain dangers. You can always bring family and friends by after you have inspected the property and made sure things are secure. That being said, don’t inspect a foreclosed home alone. Going through an agent is the best way of staying safe when inspecting homes.
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