afraid of being homeless due to lack of info

[Ayoop]

What is the name of your state? Wisconsin

Hello. I have so far been unable to get information from any source. The county I live in has taken possession of the house I rent, because the former landlord didn't pay his taxes. I found out when I received a letter from the county stating rent was to be paid to them from now on. I have an email address to ask the county treasurer any questions. I have been asking two questions for months, the only answer I was given was that they don't know.

I asked how I can purchase the house and not become homeless. I also asked what to do when repairs are needed. There are repairs that are desperately needed, a couple that could be a danger issue if not addressed eventually. I've been asking for about 6 months, and have decided to have the repairs done myself and deduct that amount from my rent. I emailed that proposal to the county and didn't get an answer.

My questions are, in this state is there a law giving us the right to first chance to buy the property (depending on how much is owed, due to the repairs needed it's not worth much) and how to get at least the more serious repairs done. I need to know what this process is - will I come home someday and strangers will be touring my house? Will I one day get a notice to be out in 3 days? I didn't do anything wrong, I think I deserve some answers.

I'd appreciate any advice.

 

[moburkes]

No, there is no such law. I can't imagine why you think there should be.

From the WI website:
What can a tenant do if the landlord refuses to make repairs?


The landlord must keep the premises in a reasonable state of repair. If the cost of the repair is minor in relation to the rent, however, the tenant may be responsible for fixing the problem. The tenant also must pay for any damage or negligence he or she caused.

Report building code violations to your local building inspector. Your landlord can’t evict you for reporting such violations. If conditions are so bad that the premises are uninhabitable, you can take the landlord to court. Or you can move out and avoid paying further rent. See an attorney for more information.

I have no idea why you expect to be homeless. You can move at any time...

 

[Ayoop]

Thank you for your reply. I didn't ask about a law, I have no idea what you mean. I've been trying to find out where we stand. How much notice can we expect if the house is sold, if we would have first chance to pay off the taxes and buy our house before it's put on an auction block.

I'm also trying to find out if the county can just show up with people to tour our house.

We have always taken care of the repairs & maintainence we are able to, as most people with even the smallest shred of sense do. We have done bigger repairs that would typically not be a renter's responsibility because we were able to and it's just easier than waiting for a reply that never comes. However, some repairs simply require a professional. As I said, there are a couple of issues that could become dangerous if not repaired. We are looking for another house, but it appears that finding something we can afford is going to take more time than I feel comfortable taking, since we have no clue how much time we may or may not have, but at least now I'm reassured that we won't be homeless even if we get a 3 day notice to get out.

Getting a useful answer somehow, somewhere, from someone about even just a timeframe would be greatly appreciated.

 

[moburkes]

Since it was foreclosed upon by the government, you won't get the same notice that is required when it is sold to a private person/company. They will give you about 30 days. So, my suggestion is that, since you're living in a place with repair problems AND YOU KNOW that you will be asked to move soon, start looking. That's the PRACTICAL answer.