Nonprofits getting first shot at bank foreclosures

Francisco and Pam Cruz will become first-time homeowners, helped by one of many nonprofit groups that can snag foreclosures at a discount - sometimes free - before banks make them available to speculators.

Rebuilding Together obtained the home for free from JPMorgan Chase & Co., the bank that foreclosed on its previous owner.

In a market hot with speculators snapping up cheap foreclosures, Rebuilding Together's program is one of many that give a leg up to nonprofits and redevelopment agencies trying to stabilize neighborhoods dotted with vacant houses.