Often, investors think that real estate listings are not a good way to find properties. They think that people with distressed properties will not have time to wait on an agent. There are many investors who decide to spend a great deal of time and money finding leads other ways. They may spend time using bandit signs, 800 numbers and offering rewards for information on deserted properties.
You know that you should never neglect solid sources on leads for investment properties. Using real estate listings can yield better results than you might think. You can determine a certain set of things from a real estate listing. You might end up with a great investment opportunity thanks to this information.
Never neglect free sources of deals. Use the real estate listings to help you target good investment opportunities. You should watch for these types of flags:
* Keep an eye out for houses that have been listed a long time - For starters, it is possible that the owners are getting nervous. However, they may not realize that they have options other than their realtor. They may feel as if you have thrown them a life preserver.
* • A house that has recently had the price 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. A drop in price can indicate that the owners need to get out.
* FSBO (For Sale By Owner) houses are good targets - People selling their property themselves may have bitten off more than they can chew. They may be happy to not have to deal with the situation anymore. Since they do not have to pay an agent they may take a lower offer also.
* Check out properties that offer owner-financing - Creative financing by nature is risky. It often involves working with buyers who do not have the credit to get bank loans. If a property owner is willing to take this type of risk they are likely a motivated seller.
It is likely clear to you now that real estate listings are a good source for leads. Use your local paper to spot potential deals in real estate listings right away.