BasicGov / BLOG

Recently, we have been getting a number of inquires asking whether our web-based land management software can handle the ongoing registration and compliance of foreclosed properties and abandoned buildings that are now managed by banks.

The common functionality of the request involves the registration of the property by the bank with the city, with re-registration occurring every six months or a year.  During the period, the bank managed property must keep the building or home up to code.  If there are violations against the property the bank must bring the property into compliance or face additional fees, and or/higher re-registration fees.

The common challenge for these cities is the need for a higher-level view of all the properties to determine which banks are good and/or bad at keeping abandoned buildings in compliance upon registration so the city can be proactive in dealing with them at registration.

The additional challenge is doing is quickly, and at a low-cost.

The solution is straight forward, even if we are expected to import your parcel data.  Setup can be as quick as three weeks if this is all that is needed to start with, and the ongoing cost is a low monthly fee per user.

The end solution can be called any number of things:

• Foreclosure Management Software
• Abandoned Buildings Tracking Software
• Foreclosure Compliance and Registration Tracking

Whatever it is, we can get you up and running quickly so you can start managing the banks and keeping citizens happy that their neighborhood property values don’t go down.

US cities are finding code enforcement solutions to help with foreclosures. See examples below.

Collier County Code Enforcement’s Blight Prevention Program is helping with foreclosure related problems. The program includes 3 areas:

1.   Address Health, Safety and Welfare Issues

• React immediately to reported code violations and coordinate with banking institutions to resolve the violations

2.   Stabilize Property Values and Property Tax Revenue

• Properly maintained properties stabilizes values and tax revenue

• Enhances the “sell” ability of the property for prospective buyers

3.   Prevents Blight within the Community

• The program embraces a proactive approach with banking institutions; provides regular follow-up with lenders about property conditions; advises lenders of code violations and issues affidavits of compliance when successfully addressed. See source.

In Indio they have hired 2 part-time code enforcement officers help the city stay on top of the home foreclosure program. Source: http://www.mydesert.com/article/20110225/NEWS01/102240343/1006/news01/Indio-hire-2-new-part-time-code-enforcement-officers

In Charles County commissioners have a new task force aimed at addressing residential property standards. This was a result of hearing presentation on the struggles that neighbors, real estate agents and banks have with foreclosed and derelict properties. See source.

Register for a free webinar and find out how other cities are using code enforcement software. Click here to register.