One of the key things that holds homebuyers and investors back in terms of jumping into foreclosure investing is the impression that you need a substantial initial commitment - that is, that you need to put down a large down payment. This is not always the case. There are several ways to get into a home No Money Down, and there are also several ways to mitigate the cost of the down payment through creative financing.

The fact is that someone with no cash at all, and even a bad credit history, can still invest in foreclosures.

Have you been making offers on home with little result? Are your offers not getting accepted?

This can be especially bewildering if you learn later that the home sold for LESS than what you were willing to pay.

The bouyant market of five years ago taught many home-buyers to come in at more than the offered price. This would pre-empt a bidding war and entice the seller into accepting the offer speedily.

Sometimes, though, the highest bidder does not get the prize.

DEAR BENNY: I just read your response on a question about publishing the names of delinquent owners. I served as our first treasurer since turnover of our 234 single-family-home association. I, too, was asked that question and responded as you suggest, deeming it a confidential matter.