Several thousand parcels of Buffalo real estate will be available when the city holds its annual "in rem" sale of foreclosed properties.

The auction is set for Oct. 20 to 22 in the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.

Everything from vacant lots to homes and some commercial properties will be up for sale. All of the properties are being sold because of back taxes owed to the City of Buffalo.

"We know these are difficult times, and help is available for property owners experiencing financial hardship," said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown.

Court orders offering payment plans that will prevent the foreclosure sale of a property can be obtained through Buffalo's Department of Law and the city's Department of Assessment and Taxation. The court-ordered program has been set for Oct. 14 to 16 at the Erie County Hall.

"The City of Buffalo can help homeowners avoid foreclosure, and payment plans are available to anyone who cannot pay the full amount owed," Brown said.