Abandoned Houses: Can You Buy Empty Buildings?

Have you ever driven past a once grand, now dilapidated building, and wondered, "Can you buy abandoned buildings?" The answer is yes, but as with most things in life, it isn't always as simple as it might seem.

Abandoned properties, often referred to as derelict or distressed real estate, can indeed be purchased. However, the journey from idle curiosity to proud owner involves several considerations, not least among them legal, financial, and practical implications.

The Legal Landscape

Before you start making plans to turn that old factory into your dream home, it's crucial to understand the legalities involved in purchasing abandoned buildings.

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In most jurisdictions, if a property has been abandoned and its owner cannot be traced, it becomes what's known as an 'ownerless' or 'abandoned property'. However, this doesn't mean it's free for the taking. The legal process usually involves a combination of probate, tax, and property laws.

Trespassing and Squatting Laws

While you might be tempted to start clearing out the old building, it's important to remember that trespassing is a criminal offense. Even if you're the eventual buyer, entering the property without permission could land you in serious trouble.

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Similarly, squatting laws vary by region. In some places, you can claim 'adverse possession' after living in the property for a certain number of years. But this is a complex legal process and doesn't absolve you of the original trespassing charges.

Tax Liens and Judicial Sales

Many abandoned buildings are owned by individuals or companies that have fallen behind on their property taxes. In such cases, the government may place a tax lien on the property and ultimately put it up for sale at a judicial auction.

This process can present opportunities for prospective buyers. However, tax lien sales often come with significant strings attached, such as required renovations or back taxes that must be paid.

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The Practical Challenge

So, you've navigated the legal landscape and found a way to buy an abandoned building. Now comes the practical challenge: restoring it to a habitable state.

Old buildings often come with hidden surprises, from structural damage to hazardous materials. It's not uncommon for renovation costs to far exceed initial estimates, requiring careful planning and budgeting.

Restoration Costs

The cost of renovating an abandoned building varies significantly based on its size, age, extent of neglect, and local construction costs. However, it's not uncommon for restoration projects to cost upward of $200 per square foot.

a large white house sitting in the middle of a lush green field

an old run down building with vines growing out of the ceiling and windows above it

an old white house sitting in the middle of a forest

an old brick building with broken windows and vines growing out of it's sides

an old abandoned building in the woods with graffiti on it's door and windows

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an abandoned building with graffiti all over the walls and floor, chandelier hanging from the ceiling

To put that in perspective, a 2,000 square foot home could cost over half a million dollars to renovate, not including the purchase price of the property.

Permits and Regulations

Depending on your location and the nature of the restoration, you may need to obtain various permits. This could include building permits, zoning permits, and environmental permits for dealing with hazardous materials.

Additionally, some historical or architecturally significant buildings may fall under local preservation ordinances, which can limit the extent of renovations.

Renovating an abandoned building is a complex and challenging journey, but for many, the prospect of breathing new life into a old structure is a deeply rewarding one. So, can you buy abandoned buildings? Yes, with careful planning, patience, and a deep understanding of the process, the answer is a resounding yes.