Can I Sell My House While in Foreclosure in Missouri?

Foreclosure can be a distressing situation for any homeowner. It occurs when you are unable to keep up with your mortgage payments, and as a result, the lender takes legal action to repossess your property. If you find yourself in this situation, you might be wondering if there is any way you can sell your house while in foreclosure.

Below, we explore the foreclosure process in Missouri, the impact it can have on your future, the legality of selling your house during foreclosure, the best way to sell your house in this situation, and how a cash home sale can work.

What Is the Foreclosure Process in Missouri?

The process typically starts when you miss a few mortgage payments. Here is an overview of the foreclosure process in Missouri:

• Notice of Default: Once you miss a payment, the lender will send you a notice of default, which is a formal notification that you have breached your mortgage agreement.
• Pre-Foreclosure Period: After receiving the notice of default, you enter a pre-foreclosure period where you have a chance to bring your mortgage payments up to date and avoid foreclosure.
• Notice of Trustee's Sale: If you fail to resolve the default during the pre-foreclosure period, the lender will issue a notice of trustee's sale. This notice informs you that your property will be sold at auction to recover the outstanding mortgage balance.
• Auction or Sale: The property will be sold at auction to the highest bidder, typically held at the county courthouse. If the property does not sell at auction, it becomes a bank-owned property, also known as a foreclosed home.

How Does Foreclosure Impact Your Future?

Foreclosure can have significant consequences for your future in various aspects. Let's take a closer look at how foreclosure can impact your credit score, long-term credit, future employment, and the possibility of owing the mortgage balance even after the auction.

Credit Score

One of the most significant impacts of foreclosure is on your credit score. A foreclosure will remain on your credit report for up to seven years, making it challenging to obtain credit in the future. It can lower your credit score by several hundred points, making it difficult to secure loans or favorable interest rates.

Long-Term Credit

In addition to the immediate impact on your credit score, foreclosure can affect your long-term creditworthiness. Lenders and creditors may perceive you as a higher risk borrower, making it harder for you to obtain credit for years after the foreclosure. This can impact your ability to buy a new home, get a car loan, or even secure a credit card.

Future Employment

Foreclosure can also impact your future employment prospects. Some employers conduct credit checks as part of their hiring process, especially for roles that involve financial responsibility. A foreclosure on your credit report can raise concerns about your financial stability and may affect your chances of landing a job.

You May Still Owe the Mortgage Balance After the Auction

Even if your house is sold at auction, it does not necessarily mean you are free from the financial obligations. If the sale price at auction is less than the outstanding mortgage balance, you may still owe the lender the difference, known as a deficiency balance. This can further complicate your financial situation and make it challenging to move forward.

Is it Legal to Sell My House During Foreclosure in Missouri?

Yes, it is legal to sell your house while in foreclosure in Missouri. In fact, selling your house can be a viable option to avoid the negative consequences of foreclosure.

However, it is crucial to navigate the process carefully and ensure all legal requirements are met. Consulting with a real estate professional or foreclosure attorney can provide valuable guidance to ensure a smooth and legal transaction.

What Is the Best Way to Sell My House During Foreclosure?

When selling your house during foreclosure in Missouri, you have several options to consider. Each option has its pros and cons, and the best choice will depend on your specific circumstances. Here are three common ways to sell your house during foreclosure:

1. Traditional home sale: This involves listing your home on the open market with the assistance of a real estate agent. While this method may yield a higher sale price, it can be time-consuming, and there is no guarantee of a quick sale.
2. Short Sale: A short sale involves selling your house for less than the outstanding mortgage balance with the approval of the lender. This option can help you avoid foreclosure and minimize the impact on your credit score.
3. Cash Home Sale: A cash home sale is a fast and efficient way to sell your house, particularly in a foreclosure situation. Investors or cash buyers purchase the property directly from you, often without the need for repairs or lengthy negotiations. This option can provide a quick solution and help you move on from foreclosure.

How Does a Cash Home Sale Work During Foreclosure?

A cash home sale can be an attractive option when facing foreclosure in Missouri. Unlike traditional home sales, this method offers a streamlined process and avoids the need for financing or inspections. Here's a brief overview of how a cash home sale works:

You contact a reputable cash home buyer or investor who specializes in purchasing properties quickly. They will assess your property's condition and make you a cash offer. If you accept the offer, the buyer will handle all the necessary paperwork and legalities, making the process hassle-free for you. Once the sale is finalized, you receive the agreed-upon cash amount, and the buyer takes ownership of the property.

A cash home sale can provide a much-needed lifeline during foreclosure, allowing you to sell your property quickly and move forward with your life.

Sell Your House Fast in Missouri and Kansas

If you need to sell your house fast but don’t want the hassle of a traditional home sale, contact Brittco. We buy houses as-is. No repairs are needed. Avoid closing costs and realtor commissions. Close in as little as seven days. Call 913-423-8856 for a fast cash offer from our local home buyers in Missouri and Kansas.