Real Estate Owned, frequently abbreviated as REO, refers to property acquired by a lending institution, typically a bank, through foreclosure proceedings. This acquisition occurs when a borrower defaults on their mortgage loan, and the property fails to attract a sufficient bid during the foreclosure auction to cover the outstanding debt. The lending institution then takes ownership of the asset. For instance, if a homeowner defaults on their mortgage and the property does not sell at auction for at least the amount owed to the bank, the bank becomes the owner and the property is classified as Real Estate Owned.
The significance of properties falling under this classification lies in their impact on both the lending institution and the real estate market. For the institution, managing and selling these assets can minimize losses incurred from the original defaulted loan. Selling them reduces holding costs, such as property taxes and maintenance. From a market perspective, the availability of these properties can create opportunities for buyers seeking potentially discounted real estate. Historically, fluctuations in the volume of these properties have served as an indicator of economic health and the stability of the housing sector.