REO (Real Estate Owned)

Intermediate 🏠 Real Estate

Definition

A property owned by a lender after foreclosure because nobody bought it at auction—basically the bank's accidental property. These often sell at discounts but come with inspection nightmares.

Example Usage

The foreclosure property became REO after failing to sell at auction.

Origin

Banking industry terminology for properties banks acquire through default

Fun Fact

REO properties can be great deals but are often trashed by frustrated former owners during the foreclosure process

Source: Banking and mortgage lending standards

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