The short answer is yes, you can sell a condemned house here in Buffalo, NY. However, it is important to note that selling a condemned house is not the same as selling a regular house. There are additional steps and considerations that you need to take into account. In fact, things can get a little tricky, so you’ll want to enlist the help of a professional. Selling a condemned house in Buffalo, NY can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. In this blog, we will explore whether it is possible to sell a condemned house and what steps you should take if you are considering it.
What Are Condemned Properties in NY?
A condemned house is one that has been deemed unsafe or uninhabitable by a government authority. This can be due to a variety of reasons, such as damage from a natural disaster, fire, or structural issues. No matter why the property was condemned, finding a solution can be stressful, costly, and time-consuming.
Why Are Houses Condemned?
Houses can be condemned for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons include the following:
Health and safety violations
If a house has major health and safety violations, such as mold, asbestos, or lead paint, it may be condemned.
Structural damage
If a house has major structural damage, such as a collapsed roof or foundation issues, it may be condemned.
Fire damage
If a house has suffered major fire damage, it may be condemned if the damage is severe enough to make the house unsafe.
Abandoned or neglected
If a house has been left vacant and neglected for an extended period of time, it may be condemned due to safety and health concerns.
What Constitutes A Condemned House?
A condemned house is one that has been deemed unsafe or uninhabitable by a government authority. In order to be condemned, the house must have significant health and safety violations, structural damage, or fire damage that make it unsafe for people to live in.
The exact value depends on:
- The location of the property (neighborhood desirability)
- The extent of the damage or violations
- The land value and redevelopment potential
Even if the structure itself has little to no value, the land underneath still holds worth, especially in sought-after Buffalo areas like North Buffalo, Elmwood Village, or South Park.
To get an accurate number, reach out to a local cash buyer familiar with Buffalo’s housing market. They can give you a no-obligation offer and explain your best options.
Dangers of a Condemned House
Condemned houses can be extremely dangerous. They may have structural damage that makes them unstable, or they may have health hazards like mold or asbestos. In addition, condemned houses in Buffalo, NY often attract squatters and vandals, which can create additional safety concerns. They are not safe places for anyone to live, which is one reason selling condemned property can be so difficult.
What Happens When A House Is Condemned?
When a house is condemned, the government will typically post a notice on the property indicating that it is unsafe to enter. The owner of the property will be notified and given a certain amount of time to address the issues that led to the condemnation. If the owner does not take action, the government may take legal action to have the property demolished. If your house in Buffalo has been condemned, you might feel like you’ve hit a dead end — but you still have options. While a condemned property can’t legally be occupied, it can still be sold under the right circumstances. Whether you’re dealing with major structural damage, code violations, or a house declared unsafe by the city, understanding your rights and options is key to moving forward confidently.
In this guide, we’ll explain what condemnation means, your selling options, and how to get a fair offer fast — even if your home can’t be lived in.
If you own a condemned property in Buffalo, NY, it is important to take action as soon as possible to avoid legal issues and financial penalties. You may be able to sell the property to a local real estate investor or at an auction but be prepared for a lower price than you would receive for a regular property. It is also important to be transparent about the status of the property when you are selling it.
It is important to take action quickly to avoid legal issues and financial penalties if you own a condemned property in Buffalo, NY. Remember to be transparent about the status of the property when you are selling it, and consider working with a real estate agent or direct home buyer who has experience in this area.
Get an offer today, sell in a matter of days.
Can a Condemned House Be Fixed?
If you own a condemned house, you may be wondering if it is possible to fix the property and bring it back to a habitable state. The truth is it depends on the extent of the damage and the reason for the condemnation. Here are a few options for your Buffalo, NY property…
Yes, You Can Sell a Condemned House in Buffalo NY
Condemnation doesn’t mean your home has zero value. It simply limits its usability in its current condition. You can sell it as-is to:
- Real Estate Investors or Cash Buyers
Cash buyers specialize in purchasing distressed or condemned properties. They’ll buy the home as-is, meaning no repairs, inspections, or renovations required. This is usually the fastest and easiest route. - Developers or Builders
Some developers are interested in condemned homes because of the land value. If your property sits in a desirable Buffalo neighborhood, the lot alone could be worth more than you think. - Flippers or Contractors
Experienced flippers often buy condemned homes to rehab and resell. These buyers typically understand the risk and costs involved.
Traditional buyers using bank financing are almost never an option, since lenders won’t approve a mortgage on a condemned property.
A condemned house is one that the City of Buffalo’s Department of Permits and Inspection Services has declared unsafe for occupancy. This can happen for several reasons, including:
- Severe structural damage (foundation issues, collapsing roof, etc.)
- Extensive fire, mold, or water damage
- Major electrical or plumbing hazards
- Long-term vacancy or neglect
- Failure to comply with housing codes after repeated violations
Once a property is condemned, it cannot legally be occupied or rented out until it meets safety and code standards again. However — and this surprises many homeowners — you can still sell the property.
Steps to Sell a Condemned Property in Buffalo NY
1. Understand the City’s Requirements
Check with the City of Buffalo Building Inspections Department to confirm the condemnation status and what violations are listed. You can request a copy of the condemnation order or inspection report to share with potential buyers.
2. Decide Whether to Repair or Sell As-Is
If the repair costs are minimal and could lift the condemnation, it might make sense to fix the issues. But in most cases, major repairs cost far more than you’d gain from resale.
Selling as-is to a direct buyer is often the best way to avoid sinking more money into the property.
3. Disclose the Property’s Condition Honestly
New York law requires sellers to disclose known issues. However, if you sell to a cash investor, they typically accept full responsibility for the home’s condition once purchased.
4. Work with a Local Cash Buyer
A reputable Buffalo home-buying company can make you a fair cash offer, handle the paperwork, and close quickly — often in as little as 7–14 days.
This route helps you avoid:
- Code enforcement fines
- Continued property taxes
- Demolition orders or city liens
Steps to Selling a Condemned House
If you decide to sell a condemned house, there are several steps you should take to ensure a successful sale.
Get a Professional Inspection
Before you try to sell the house in Buffalo, NY, you should have a professional inspection performed. This will help you identify any structural issues or safety concerns that need to be addressed before the house can be sold. It will also give you an idea of how much it will cost to make any necessary repairs.
Address the Health and Safety Violations
If your house was condemned due to health and safety violations, the first step is to address those issues. This may involve removing mold, asbestos, lead paint, or other hazardous materials from the property. You may need to hire a professional contractor to help with this process, as it can be dangerous and complex.
Repair the Structural Damage
If your house has been condemned due to structural damage, such as a collapsed roof or foundation issues, you would need to repair those issues before the property can be deemed safe to live in. This may involve hiring a structural engineer to assess the damage and develop a plan for repair.
Address Fire Damage
If your house was condemned due to fire damage, you would need to repair the damage and make sure the property is up to code before it can be deemed safe to live in. This may involve hiring a Buffalo, NY contractor to replace damaged drywall, wiring, and other features.
Determine the Current Value of the House
Once you have identified any issues with the house, you should determine its value. This will help you set a realistic price for the house and attract potential buyers. You can get an appraisal from a professional Buffalo, NY appraiser or use online tools to estimate the value of the house.
Disclose the Status of the House
When you are selling a condemned house in Buffalo, NY, it is important to be transparent about its status. You should disclose the fact that the house has been condemned and any issues that were identified during the inspection. This will help you avoid any legal issues and build trust with potential buyers.
Consider Your Selling Options
There are several options available when it comes to selling a condemned house in Buffalo, NY. You should consider each option and choose the one that is best for your situation.
In many cases, it is best to hire a professional to help you fix a condemned house. A real estate investor or contractor who specializes in rehabbing properties may be able to help you navigate the process of bringing your property back to a habitable state.
Work With a Real Estate Agent or Professional Property Buyer
Selling a condemned house can be a complicated process, so it may be helpful to work with a real estate agent who has experience in this area. They can help you navigate the legal and financial aspects of the sale and increase your chances of finding a buyer.
In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to demolish a condemned house and start from scratch. This may be the case if the damage is extensive or if the property is in a state of disrepair.
While it is possible to fix a condemned house, it can be a challenging and expensive process. If you are considering fixing a condemned property, it is important to work with a professional and be prepared for a significant investment of time and money. As always, it is important to be transparent about the status of the property when you are selling it.
Options for Selling a Condemned House
If you own a condemned house, you may be wondering what your options are for selling the property. One of the biggest challenges you will face when selling a condemned house is finding a buyer. Not many people are willing to take on such a risky and potentially costly investment. However, there are still some options available. Depending on the extent of the damage and the reason for the condemnation, there may be several options available to you.
You can try to sell the house to a Buffalo, NY real estate investor who specializes in buying distressed properties. These investors are often willing to take on the risk and can help you sell the house quickly. However, you should be prepared to accept a lower price than you would get for a regular house. But keep in mind you won’t be paying for repairs, marketing, commissions, or closing costs.
Another option is to sell the house at an auction. Auctions can be a good option for condemned houses because they attract buyers who are looking for a bargain. However, you should be aware that the price you receive at an auction may be lower than what you could get by selling the house on the open market or from a direct property buyer.
Selling A Condemned House With An Agent
One option for selling a condemned house in Buffalo, NY is to work with a local real estate agent. An agent can help you navigate the process of selling a condemned property and may be able to find a buyer who is willing to take on the challenge of fixing the property up and making all the repairs. It is extremely important to be transparent about the status of the property and any required repairs that are needed. This can impact the pricing and interest of potential buyers. It can also get you into a lot of trouble is you do not disclose any known issues up front.
Selling A Condemned House For Cash
Another option for selling a condemned house in Buffalo, NY is to sell it for cash. There are companies such as Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC that specialize in buying distressed properties, including condemned houses, for cash. While this may result in a lower sale price than working with an agent or selling on the traditional market, it can be a fast and convenient option for homeowners who need to sell quickly without agent commissions or repair costs.
You can try to sell the house to a Buffalo, NY real estate investor who specializes in buying distressed properties. These investors are often willing to take on the risk and can help you sell the house quickly. While the offer price may seem low, you can typically make that up by avoiding agent commissions and property repairs.
Selling A Condemned House AS-IS
If you are unable or unwilling to make the necessary repairs to bring your condemned house up to code, you may be able to sell your Buffalo, NY property AS IS. This means that the buyer is aware of the property’s condition and is willing to take on the responsibility for any required repairs. However, it is important to be transparent about the status of the property and any required repairs, as this can impact the pricing and interest of potential buyers.
There are several options available for selling a condemned house in Buffalo, NY. You can choose to work with an agent or sell as-is for cash. It is important to assess your options carefully and work with a professional who can help you navigate the process of selling a condemned property in Buffalo, NY. Remember to be transparent about the status of the property and any required repairs, as this can impact the pricing and interest of potential buyers.
Other Options
You can try to sell the house to a local government agency or non-profit organization. These organizations may be interested in buying the house to use for affordable housing or other community projects. However, you should be prepared for a lengthy and complicated process if you choose this option. So, can you sell a condemned house in Buffalo NY?
Absolutely. While a condemned property can’t be lived in, it can still be legally sold — and often much faster than you might expect. The key is finding the right type of buyer who understands the local market and is willing to take on the project as-is.
If your home has been condemned or you’ve received a notice from the city, don’t panic. You still have time to act and avoid further costs or penalties.
Ready to Sell a Condemned House in Buffalo?
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Turn your condemned property into cash — and a fresh start.
Selling a condemned house is not easy, but it is possible. If you are considering selling a condemned house, you should take the time to understand the process and your options. With the right approach, you can sell your condemned house and move on to the next chapter of your life. Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC can help you sell your condemned house fast in Buffalo, NY. Reach out to us today to learn more! 716-403-2016
How Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC Can Help
At Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, we understand that dealing with a condemned house can be overwhelming and expensive. As real estate investors, we specialize in purchasing properties as-is, meaning you don’t need to worry about making repairs. Here’s how we can assist:
- Quick and Fair Offers: We provide fast and competitive offers, allowing you to sell your property without delay.
- No Permitting Hassles: We buy houses in any condition, so you don’t need to navigate the complex permitting process or make costly corrections.
- Streamlined Process: Our straightforward buying process ensures a smooth and stress-free transaction.
By choosing Buffalo Brick & Mortar LLC, you can avoid the complications and expenses associated with condemned houses, making it easier to sell your house quickly and efficiently.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you sell your house without the stress and financial burden of dealing with a condemned house.