May 9, 2008 9:02 pm US/Pacific
Foreclosed Homes Being Thrashed By Residents
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) ―
The depressed housing market is leading to a lot of damage. Then surprise is who is responsible.
In this market a lot of people are being forced to walk away from their home and some are taking a parting shot. That makes life very interesting for the people left to pick up the pieces.
Smashed glass and relatively mild damage is common in foreclosed homes. This is the work of vandals, typical for houses that sit empty for a period of time.
But some foreclosed homes are being damaged before they're even vacated. In 20 years of selling homes, agent Jon Nastro is now seeing more damage done by people with a personal attachment. Homeowners who have lost their homes.
"Maybe they feel jaded they've lost their homes," says Jon.
In about one out of every five foreclosures, Jon finds damage that's obviously not accidental. Cabinets ripped out, appliances stolen, people taking off with anything even if it is nailed down.
"We had one they took the sink out of the house," Jon says.
It can take several dumpsters to clear out some homes. With foreclosures leaving people's finances in shambles, many are taking out the emotions on their homes.
"It's a really sad situation when someone loses their home," Jon concludes.
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