Finding foreclosed properties to begin real estate investing is relatively simple. There are several methods to find a property that has been foreclosed on or is in the process of foreclosure. Here are some of them.

1. Records at the local county courthouse. In this method you can find the houses that are being repossessed either by credit institutions or for non-payment of taxes. This method is time consuming, but you have full control over your search. The thoroughness of the information you collect depends entirely on the work you put into it.

2. Newspapers. In all the country’s newspapers there is a section for legal notices. These notices contain legal information for foreclosed properties. These notices will name the person(s) who has legal process against you, the name of the lender(s), the name of the county sheriff, if it is a tax foreclosure, or any other information relevant. It will give the date of the proceeding and request more information from anyone wishing to encumber the property.

3. Internet. Online foreclosure listing companies will search for notices of default. They then sell a subscription for this information. Although this is a very easy way to obtain foreclosure information, this is a ‘buyer beware’ situation. There will be other users of this service who will be looking for the same information that you are looking for. Along with that, you need to make sure that the information you get is up to date and not out of date. See if they will give you a free trial before you buy.

4. Direct mail. Consider a bulk mailing through the postal service for homeowners experiencing foreclosure. As you receive information from this email, you can be sure that these are good leads. Another advantage is that you can talk to someone who is still in the pre-foreclosure period. They are motivated to sell, or they would not have contacted you about your property.

5. Real estate companies. A bank that ends up with properties that are being repossessed will hire a real estate agent to represent what they want sold. A good real estate agent can obtain a list of the properties that the bank has in its possession.

As you can see, there are numerous ways to find information about foreclosures. Don’t forget that one of the best ways to get information of any kind is by word of mouth. You may hear that her sister’s best friend’s brother-in-law is preparing to go through foreclosure proceedings. Be prepared with a business card, flyer, or brochure to give them to them.