What is the Role of a HUD Code Lawyer in the Purchasing Process of HUD Code Homes?
HUD code homes refer to houses manufactured in compliance with the HUD structural criteria, those homes that have been foreclosed by the FHA due to the non payment of secured mortgage dues. These homes are one of the most affordable housing options in the country right now and the modern day manufactured homes are poles apart from the shabby trailers of yesteryears. Today, these homes feature every amenity that you can think of, from spacious bathrooms to state of the dining rooms and from bathrooms that bespeak luxury to impressive living rooms; these houses have them all. However, despite the change in the structural and architectural aspects of these homes; they still have to be in compliance with the HUD code. Also, if such a home is foreclosed because the owner defaults on an FHA secured loan; the HUD clears the dues and becomes the new owner of the property. These homes are subsequently put up for sale to recover the losses of the US Department of Housing and Development better known as HUD. Even though just about any body can bid on a HUD homes; there are set criteria and limitations that you should be aware of.
There are several points in the buying process at which a HUD code attorney will prove invaluable. The first role that a HUD code attorney can play in such a process is advisory in nature. Buying a HUD homes is very different from purchasing regular real estate and not only will you need to enlist the help of a HUD code attorney but also a HUD registered realtor because he is the only one who an place the offer on your behalf. An HUD code attorney will prove instrumental in advising you about the various assets of a HUD home purchase. For instance, HUD homes are sole as-is which means that neither does the departments warrant the house nor are the responsible for the incurrence of any expenditures associated with structural repair or renovation work to bring the house up to compliance level. So it becomes essential for the prospective owner to get the house evaluated and inspected by a professional engineer to gauge the level of expenditure that will be involved in making the house habitable and HUD code compliant.
The second role that a HUD code attorney is to dispute claims that arise due to discrimination. Federal laws are in place to protect the rights of all consumers and they bestow the right to own a home or to rent one on all the citizens. Very often many landlords advertise that they accept HUD coupons and Section 8 renters. By saying this, they are merely stating that they accept people who are seeking housing options on government assistance. Such house owners have t prove that the property they intend to rent out meets with the HUD code, so essentially they qualify as HUD homes. If a landlord refuses to rent the premises for you and if you feel that the action was motivated due to discrimination, you may file a complaint through your HUD code attorney with the Department. An arbitrator from the HUD will usually step in to resolve the issue; however, if a solution cannot be reached the matter can be taken to court and here, you will be represented by your HUD code attorney. The court may order compensation for emotional distress and defamation.
A HUD code attorney also needs to be present when closing the sale of a HUD property. The lawyer will usually be from the Department and he will be there to ensure that all the formalities are carried out in tandem with the HUD regulations and the federal law.
If you feel that you are a victim of HUD fraud, you can complaint to the Department about it; such cases are dealt with very seriously. You can get in touch with HUD through their toll free number 800-347-3735. You could also send in the complaint through the OIG Hotline Complaint Intake Form; filing your complaint through an email is also an option.
Author Bio: Seomul evans is a Website Marketing consultant for Louisiana Hud Code Lawyer and also write Free Content
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