How can I find houses that are free or exceptionally cheap?

Question

Now before you answer understand that this is a serious question. Let me explain...I have seen houses that are dilapidated and need renovation offered by various historic societies free to someone who would renovate and restore them to their original beauty. I also know that in the town I grew up in there were many houses that had just been abandoned by absentee owners or people who just didn't care. My family is getting ready to purchase a house and being I am in the construction industry I figured that this would be a great way to go. I am looking for resources to find these types of deals so that I can have that dream house my family has longed for but without the exasperating cost of build new from scratch. The lase page of this old house magazine always features a "save this old house" article but none have been in an area that was appropriate for my family, not to mention a lot of them are asking for you to move the house which can cost more than building new. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for any and all help.

Answer 1

Somewhere over the rainbow.

Wait!  Try Detroit.  There are some there for a dollar, and worth every penny of it.

Answer 2

You aren't going to find one for free but there are some bargains out there.  Watch the ads.  If you see an abandoned property, look up the owner and contact them.

Talk to some of the smaller banks in your area and ask if they have any REO's they want to sell (and finance).