Distressed real estate is the diamond in the rough that all RE investors are seeking. HOWEVER, without doing your research you may lose far more then you will gain.
A cautious and methodical approach is best in this decision making process. Keeping that in mind, here are some critical area’s that must be considered when looking at real estate bargains for investing purposes.
Keep in mind…this isnt listed in any particular order. Its just things to keep in mind the target real estate should meet at least one of the criteria, but not be too heavy in any other areas.
I give you…THE LIST:
WHY THE ASKING PRICE
Most investors focus on price first.
They search for properties they think are selling below market value. This makes sense buy low and sell high right?? However think about the reasons behind the sales price? What is their motivation? Are they relocating or in financial duress? The 3 D’s come in to play here most of the time. (Death Divorce, Debt)
What problems does the property have if any? Old cracked and faulty plumbing? Bad electric? If its an older craftsman style home those problems are very common. Is the foundation in good order? Don’t forget holding costs.
Holding costs are one of the biggest profit killers to investors. Taxes, mortgage, commissions to agents (both selling and buying) gas, and electric…all these things add up…and FAST.
A poor understanding of the current market value is another major deal killer. Remember market value is an educated guess at best. No one really knows until the appraisal is complete.
Price other property in the area. Come as close to the size/style/lot size you are looking at buying.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS CAN HELP YOU
While price and location are important; don’t discount other profit leveraging tools like the terms of the financing.
If you have the means you can pay full price but jockey for a FAR lower interest rate or a smaller down payment. Over time your cash flow could be in the black faster due to the terms you set up.
STUDY THE LOCAL MARKET
Good investors get in the habit of understanding the lay of the land. What is the local community like? Where are the closest fire/police/EMS services? How good are the local schools? Don’t rule out these questions. Make sure to look in to the last houses sold in the area as well as any selling trends you can find.
As the man said…it is all about location.
Location is usually seen as the most critical component of finding a good deal next to price. In reality, this matters much more if youre looking in terms of finding a long-term residence than it does for a quick sale. It’s more critical to focus on the potential profit margins than the area it’s located in. If the ugly home by the dump is more profitable than the fashionable condo downtown, then it’s a better deal, aesthetics aside.
FIXER UPPERS AND FORECLOSURES
In the case of a fix and flip and sometimes a foreclosure. It is the job of the investor to factor in the repair costs. A keen eye can save you lots of money in a very short time. (Not to mention a good understanding of home repair work)
Fixer properties are a treasure trove to a savvy investor. If you have a good eye for details and can spot maintance problems you can make a nice return on your investment. Things like a bad roof, poor plumbing or a bad foundation can be very costly to repair. Once you have an idea of what youre looking at for repair cost, do yourself a favor and add a little buffer say 5%…just to be safe.
Understand the ZONE
Make sure you research the zoning for the property BEFORE you buy it. If you are thinking of adding a second floor or a granny flat…is the zoning available? Make sure you know before you commit to doing anything that will add or change the SQ footage of the property.
These are often bargains because the price is based on current use. So the single unit residential is priced low while the double unit duplex could be sold higher or rented out. Harder to find as developers stay more aware of zoning allowances these days.
Classic zoning “no-no’s” are garages converted to bedrooms. Non-permitted granny flats and detached garages.
Doc Schmyz has invested all over the US. His free website shares Real estate investing information for all over the US. Find real estate information by state
