Buy Abandoned Property in New York

Are you considering buying an abandoned house or commercial property in NY?

If yes, you will enjoy my guide.

From my own experience, I learned a lot about acquiring these abandoned properties. In this article, I will share every detail you need to know to get started.

If done properly, Purchasing abandoned property can be a unique investment opportunity with great profit potential.

Find Abandoned Property | Buy Abandoned Property

Note: This article was last updated on Apr 4th, 2025.

What Do You Need to Know About New York’s Rules?

New York Abandoned Property Law covers the Rules for buying abandoned houses. The law covers different situations, such as things left in rented places, cars that no one claims, and money that banks hold onto for someone. Learning these rules will help you buy the right way and avoid problems. So, I recommend that you read the property law or take a crash course form some real estate expert.

The next step is to locate these abandoned properties.

So, where can we find these houses?

Tips to Find Abandoned Property in NY

Here are some proven tips from my own experience that I have learned over the years.

  1. Use the Internet and databases:
    • Visit the NYC ACRIS Search page or NY Financial Services website. It has many abandoned houses throughout the state.
    • Websites like Realtor.com or Zillow can also be helpful. Look for houses that are sold “as-is” or need extensive work.
  2. Read local newspapers:
    • Sometimes, abandoned houses are advertised in the newspaper. They might be sold at auctions or because the owner couldn’t pay their mortgage.
  3. Explore Neighborhoods:
    • Take a walk or drive around the area you’re interested in. Look for empty houses, such as those with boarded-up windows or overgrown yards.
    • Talk to people in the neighborhood. They might know about houses that have been empty for a long time.

What to Do Next?

Once you find a property you’re interested in, do some detective work and find out the owner’s details and property history.

Go to the county records office and find out who owns the house, whether there are any unpaid taxes, and whether there are legal claims against the property (these are called “liens”). You can also use the ACRIS NYC search portal to find these details.

Check everything carefully. You can consult a lawyer or real estate expert like me in the local county.

Abandoned properties to buy in New York

Steps to Buy Abandoned Property in New York

  1. Research Properties: Check newspapers, online ads, and county records to spot abandoned buildings.
  2. Verify Status: Review tax records, building department files, and liens to confirm abandonment.
  3. Contact the Department of Financial Services: Call 800-342-3736 or use the online complaint portal to learn about vacant property rules.
  4. Reach Out to the Owner: If abandoned, try to find the owner or representative to discuss a potential sale.
  5. Secure Financing: Arrange funds through lenders or loans for distressed properties.
  6. Complete Standard Procedures: Follow regular real estate steps with an attorney and agent.

Check Legal Requirements

  • Confirm ownership and check local laws.
  • Address unpaid taxes or liens.
  • Know that adverse possession laws require 10 years of open use without permission.

Programs to acquire abandoned houses

  • Land Banks in New York manage vacant properties and partner with buyers willing to repair and occupy them.
  • Neighborhood Homes and HomeFix by NYC’s Department of Housing Preservation and Development help buyers restore abandoned houses.

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