Foreclosures Down in Wrentham

Wrentham’s foreclosure rates have decreased in February slightly in 2013 as apposed to 2012.

The data, compiled by real estate information firm The Warren Group, had the town's newly started foreclosures (called foreclosure petitions) decreasing from two in February 2012 to one in February 2013.  There were no foreclosure deeds (which represent completed foreclosures) in February of either year, and a decrease in deeds year to date from one to zero.

The trend is reflected in the state, as foreclosure activity in Massachusetts dropped again February, thanks to improving economic conditions and a revitalized real estate market, according to the latest report from The Warren Group, publisher of Banker & Tradesman.

Foreclosures in Massachusetts dropped more than 38-percent in February. There were 856 petitions, down from 1,394 in February 2012.

So far this year, there were 1,796 petitions filed, down 34-percent from 2,727 during the same period last year.

Timothy Warren Jr., CEO of The Warren Group, said this could be a turnaround in foreclosure rates in the state.

"Seeing four consecutive months of petitions below 1,000 is a promising sign," he said. "The improved jobs picture and lenders' willingness to do short sales and loan modifications are helping to fuel the decrease. Hopefully, this continues and improves consumer confidence as well."

In February, 240 foreclosure deeds were filed statewide, down almost 69-percent from 767 in February 2012. Foreclosure deeds represent completed foreclosures. Year-to-date foreclosure deeds are down 66 percent. A total of 532 deeds have been filed so far this year, compared to 1,566 during the same period in 2012.

The Warren Group also tracked a decrease in auction announcements in February. A total of 330 auctions were announced in February, a 76 percent drop 1,384 in February 2012. Year-to-date announcements totaled 669, which is a 77 percent decline from 2,960 during the same period last year.