How to Make the Most of Real Estate Listings
Oct 23rd, 2009 by Reading and Writing
Often, investors think that real estate listings are not a good way to find properties. After all, people who own properties that are attractive to investors probably do not have time to wait around on an agent. Investors often devote a lot of time and money to alternative methods of finding deals. These may include bandit signs, 800 numbers and locating deserted properties.
Any way that works for you to locate investment properties should not be overlooked. Real estate listings hold more promise than you might expect. You can determine certain important things from real estate listings. These things could possibly help you spot a good investment.
if they are good, do not neglect free sources of leads. You can and should use real estate listings to locate good investment properties. You should watch for these types of flags:
* Houses that have been listed for a long time are good potential targets - It is possible that the owners are starting to get nervous. They may be unaware that a real estate agent is not their only option. Your contacting them could be a lifesaver as far as they are concerned.
* Look for home prices that have just been lowered - Houses with recent drops in price often are owned by people who are getting more motivated. After all, if you had all the time in the world you would wait for your asking price. If an owner needs to get out, a drop in price may be an indicator.
* FSBO signs in yards or listings are promising - It is likely that FSBO owners are overwhelmed. They may just be happy to be out of the situation that they were in. Since they do not have to pay an agent they may take a lower offer also.
* Properties that offer owner financing have big potential. - This type of financing has inherent risk. It frequently involves working with buyers who do not have the credit to get bank loans. If a property owner will take this type of risk they are likely a motivated seller.
As you can see, the real estate listings are a great source of leads. Use your local paper to spot potential deals in real estate listings right away.
