It is important when investing in real estate to buy properties at below market value. One good way to do this is to buy foreclosed properties. When the mortgage on a property is not paid on time it goes into foreclosure. This means the bank that holds the mortgage will try to sell the property. The way how the banks usually do this is with public auctions. These auctions are a great way to buy real estate at below market value. Read more at http://realestatefacttips.blogspot.com/2009/08/foreclosures-buy-real-estate-at-below.html