5 comments about Foreclosure Investing For Dummies (For Dummies (Business & Personal Finance)).

1. With the struggles in the real estate market and the misleading lending practices, foreclosures are rampant. Wise investors can take advantage of the enormous opportunity in the real estate market. This book will lead them to the promissary notes. Outstanding book! The kind you read, then use as a reference for the rest of your investing life.
   
   Michael J. Maher



2. FORECLOSURE FOR DUMMIES - Informative, with no wasted text, very concise and full of useful facts. Especially readable, moves along and warns of related problems that must be considered when investing. Excellent book



3. Great book. This is the time to read this. It saved me $1000.00's before I wasted money on an informational product.



4. Par for Dummies series -- very informative, useful, clear and easy to read. Lays out upside potential as well as downside risks. As an adjunct, I've been using a beta service at realquest dot com which lets me search for pre-foreclosure, foreclosured and bank-owned homes in my local area. Perfect combo.



5. this book is very easy to read. it gives you step by step info on all apects of investing.

5 comments about Investing in Duplexes, Triplexes, and Quads: The Fastest and Safest Way to Real Estate Wealth.

1. Difficult to read due to lack of transitions. Some difficulty with following examples. Otherwise several decent plans on building wealth through rental units.



2. Larry Loftus gives great tips in this easy-to-read guide for this type of investing. When my partner and I first decided to buy a second home for an investment, we weren't sure which kind was right for us. This book turned out to be our turning point where we realized this was the right type of investment for our situation. Loftus relates personal experience, regrets and success. Great real-scenario figures, charts for comparison and defining information about who does what in the real estate biz.



3. very good book. organized, but could have been shorter had it left out some of the ideas not related to duplexes, triplexes, and quads. overall, would def reccomend.



4. I would recommed this book to anyone who is looking to branch out into real estate (residental property). I have 3 properties and they are producing good wealth, plus I never worry about them being vacant.



5. I have been in the real estate game for 10 years, starting with "flipping" (before it was trendy), then to building "spec" homes (because it was trendy), and finally to "hold and rent" (because I had to!). After the boom, I had several homes that would not sell and reluctantly turned to rentals as a last resort to cut down my mortgage outlay. Much to my relief, it worked!
   
   Since that revelation, I recently set out to find information specializing in "Buy/Fix/Rent" methods and along comes this book. At first blush, it was exactly what I was looking for - and with glowing reviews to boot! Bullseye, right? Well not quite...
   
   THE GOOD: Great introduction for beginners, providing a nice foundation of information. Definitely like his reasoning behind buying multi-family residences. Section on Valuation of Property was a good read.
   
   THE BAD: You need to be fairly well financed for down payments, renovations, margin, etc., and have very good credit. He only buys in middle to upper middle class 'yuppie' areas, that are near where he lives. That may not apply to everyone. He disregards lower income and out-of-state areas as options (I found his explanations a bit unsatisfactory). He also advocates being the property manager, which is a legitimate full time job (believe me, I know!). His long-term success relies largely on appreciation and buying more properties by pulling out equity with refinancing, which is tough sledding these days (not his fault, he wrote this when that was not an issue).
   
   THE UGLY: At the risk of being offensive, his blurb on Selecting Tenants was laugh-out-loud funny. I guess his gut is the divining rod of the rental world. Sorry, I could not resist commenting on that.
   
   In conclusion, this is a quick read and there are some solid pieces to the puzzle (especially if you are a beginner), but I can't quite adapt this to my situation.

5 comments about What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know about Cash Flow... And 36 Other Key Financial Measures.

1. I got this book for a grounding in some of the calculations that a landlord needs to understand. This book is a good and thorough reference that satisfied me. It may be more detailed than most people want, but I found it good that it is so thorough and deep. I also like the access to the spreadsheets, which are very helpful and useful.
   
   I thank the author for sharing his experience and knowledge.



2. I was not sure if this book would work for me. I bought several other books on financial analysis, but I always found them either to be too dry or too complex. Gallinelli has the ability to get the scary formulas and maths and break it down to a level that can be understood.
   His style of writing is fun too. He puts in the occasional joke at the right moments when things start getting a bit complex. This helped me a lot to understand and follow his line of thinking.
   In addition, the book is very well planned as it builds up slowly from very basic material to more advanced material.
   Good book to have.



3. Wow, now this is a great reference book for investment calculations. Not only does he provide formulas, but Frank also explains the use and the Rules of Thumbs are great. There is no magic calculation that will tell you if it's a good deal or not and Frank says that several times. It's a matter of looking at the opportunity from several angles that will give you that indication.
   
   My only warning is that this book is really geared to multi-family or commercial investments. Some of the calculations are not applicable to the residential single family units that some beginner investors start with.
   
   Having a MBA, I'll tell you this, learning this ratios and calculations were much easier to learn from this book than I did in the classroom. Good job Frank, a definite must have for the serious investor.



4. This book goes over many methods to make an informed decision. I would reccomend this to a person that really wants to know different ways to analyze your deals. Very informative.



5. "What Every Real Estate Investor Needs to Know about Cash Flow" is the definitive guide to understanding critical calculations that will help you to determine if a prospective acquisition target is a great deal to buy immediately or a horrible investment to avoid like the plague!
   
   I've owned this book for years but often find myself referencing this wonderful and well-written manual.
   
   Matthew A. Martinez
   Author of "Investing in Apartment Buildings: Create a Reliable Stream of Income and Build Long-Term Wealth" and "2 Years to a Million in Real Estate"
   www.matthewamartinez.com

5 comments about Complete Guide to Real Estate Tax Liens and Foreclosure Deeds: Learn in 7 Days-Investing Without Losing Series (Investing Without Losing).

1. I've bought a couple of tax lien books after seeing some commercials on TV. This is the easiest so far to understand because it breaks down the auction process and the research process into steps and checklists. The other books tend to give you an encyclopedia article of what tax liens are, but this one clearly tells you HOW to do it not just WHAT it is.



2. I was curious about the topic of tax liens after reading about it. This book clearly explained what it is. It showed examples, and illustrations. And it didn't carry the usual garbage of having too many pages with no content. This book is a quick read but every page is filled with information that I was able to use.



3. This is a very very quick read and a definite time saver for people on the go. I think if you are new to this and didn't know how tax liens work, you will really find this book to be helpful as it guides you step by step. It is very specific on what you should do and what forms to fill out. I have looked at other tax lien resources mainly John Beck's expensive tax lien program on TV. I found this book to be cheaper and more direct to the point, while the latter having little or no resources unless you want to pay more for coaching and stuff.
   
   Also I was surprised to find the free online community with this book. It makes the learning process a little easier when you have questions and you can ask people including the author directly.



4. A good book that demistifies any confusion about tax sales throughout the country. Easy to read and easy to follow. Breaks down all the information into an organization fashion. Unfortunately, the author's website isn't working.



5. This book is very easy to understand. It gives you step by step information and resources on tax liens and deed. I would recommend this book to any one that wants to know about tax lien and deeds.

5 comments about Real Estate Investing for Dummies.

1. This book is a great companion to other books of a more thoeretical nature. Many real estate books focus on why you should invest and the benefits of investing.
   
   This book does that, but then goes one step further. I think the authors and the 'For Dummies' team need to be congratulated as they have given everyone enough detail to make some very solid decisions about your investing.
   
   Very worthwhile and definately well worth the $$. And very solid to know it's written by investors not salespeople.



2. I was amazed at how quickly I received this book. The book was in excellent shape.



3. This book is stupendous! It covers a tremendous amount of information to get you started in real estate investing. My wife and I are starting a real estate holding company and this book has been the foundation of our learning.
   
   The only strange thing about the book is that for some reason the authors decided to only use the feminine pronouns "she" or "her" when referring to general individuals, such as "It's very difficult for an owner to lose her home and it's often even more difficult for her to..."
   
   At first this was just odd, but it became a real distraction and annoyance that they never use "he or she" or the common practice in English of using the male pronoun for such situations.
   
   Despite this sort of printed verbal tick, this is an excellent book with a lot of information.



4. Real Estate Investing for Dummies is yet another excellent real estate book in the Dummies series. I have "Home Buying for Dummies" and "Property Management for Dummies." Both are highly valued, and frequently utilized, volumes in my investing library.
   
   I have long thought that "Real Estate Investing" by McLean and Eldred was perhaps the top book for beginning real estate investors. But after reading "Real Estate Investing for Dummies," I now think the Dummies is equally as good, although it may not cover quite as much ground. Dummies is excellent in what it presents because it written in a manner that is easily understood, it provides sufficent depth, and it covers the key topics.
   
   I particularly like the chapter on "Due Diligance." The chapter does an outstanding job of describing the components of reviewing books and records, and inspecting a property that you have bid on and have had the bid accepted by the seller. Purchase contracts provide that the sale can be canceled without loss of earnest money if the buyer's physical inspection isn't satisfactory. Following the suggestions in this chapter assure that you won't be surprised with what you get, and gives tips on how to cancel or renogiate the deal, if you need to.
   
   I also like the final chapter, which lays out in plain English the time tested (non-infomercial guru) principals of how to make money in real estate. Buy when market conditions are conducive to buying, when properties are distressed and available as forclosures or on favorable terms with seller financing. Add value to properties. Hold on to properties that offer long-tem stable growth in rental rates. Refinance to tap into investment property equity and to further your real estate investments.
   
   Good solid advice.



5. This book is super if you are considering real estate as an investment. I like it so much, I take it with me virtually everywhere I go! It is a suberb resource and caters to almost everyone in every situation! A great book and will definitely get my use out of it! Delivery was super fast too!

5 comments about The Pre-Foreclosure Property Investor's Kit: How to Make Money Buying Distressed Real Estate -- Before the Public Auction.

1. Very informative kit. Many people hear the word foreclosure or pre-foreclosure and automatically think, bargain or a steal or buying a home for dirt cheap; but there's a lot more to it than that and this book gives you a very good insight of how the process works. Buying distressed Real Estate can be time consuming, costly and a real challenge, as you will find out after reading this book.



2. I spent a weekend reading the book. Loved it. The author knows what he is talking about. He also has a good website where you can download the proper letter you should send out to people in distress.
   
   I own a foreclosure company and have adapted some of his techniques, nevertheless (not to take away any merit from the authorm but instead to enhance the next version of his book) our company principals felt like the letters were a little bit to hard on the person that is loosing their homes. And sometimes talking this hard to people could have negative consequences. We have to understand that these are individuals that when loosing their homes, can go into denial and sometimes enter into very heavy depression.
   
   If you do decide to get into this process of sending out letters the only thing you should try and add to them, is to let the people know that you are there because you really care to help them out and you are not there to make a quick buck! People will give you their homes if you are upfront, honest and ethic about what you are trying to do.
   
   Don't forget to add a little note written by hand thats tells the reader that you: "really care to help them!"
   
   Other than that, you should buy the book if you are into the business of Real Estate.



3. The information included in this book has made my job much easier and has expanded my knowledge base and expertise. The organization I have derived from it is most valuable.



4. The author claims that he is "[u]nlike 99 percent of all real estate authors in America . . .", because you can contact him directly via his personal business line and e-mail address. Neither is true!! The phone number,(813) 237-6267, listed in the book is no longer in service, and he does not answer e-mails(tjlucier@thomaslucier.com). Very tacky and unprofessional!!! Also, the the author will direct you to websites that do not provide the information he claims can be found there. It makes me wonder how reliable and credible the rest of the information in this book is.



5. This is an excellent book by Thomas as he thoroughly takes you through the process of purchasing an investment property. He provides a wealth of resources on nearly every aspect of investing by listing websites and addresses.
   
   His forms are great for providing you with an idea for approaching home owners. However, the tone of the letters are some what dismissive--but that's just my opinion.
   
   The only area that needs enhancing is providing one with an idea as to estimate value in the property. He does not provide as much detail as others (i.e., Steve Berges "The Complete Guide to Real Estate Finance for Investment Properties"). With that said, it is an excellent resource and I highly recommend it.

5 comments about Home Buying For Dummies, 3rd edition.

1. This book goes without saying that it covers all the basics and provides additional information through web links. This is my 4th Dummy book and will continue to use it as a reference for many years to come! Easy read, funny at times without being to cheesy. Kudos to the authors again for another quality book!
   
   Read this book in any fashion you like and mark points down to inquire with Realtors, loan officer, appraisers and inspectors... You'll make some mad for being informed and catch others trying to lie or sugar coat it to you!



2. it is a must read if you are a first time home buyer. I knew what to ask, what to expect. I am not money savvy, but the morgage section is simple enough that I feel that helped me getting the best deal possible.



3. If you've never bought a home before, buy this book. It gives you a good overview of many areas of the homebuying process. If the thought of purchasing your first home is a bit daunting, educate yourself. This doesn't give you every single detail that you need to know, but it will help you ask informed questions and lead you on your way.



4. I recently ordered several mortgage books as learning and reference tools as I embark on my new career as a loan officer. I have not read any of the books from cover to cover, but they are serving me well for the purpose intended. The book arrived in a timely manner and in the condition described.



5. Full of interesting things about home buying. I wish that in some parts it would have gone more in depth. But in the end I felt like I learned a lot from this book.

5 comments about Short-Sale Pre-Foreclosure Investing: How to Buy "No-Equity" Properties Directly from the Bank -- at Huge Discounts.

1. The book does a "decent" job discussing the "big picture" of short sales to someone that has little knowledge of the subject. However, someone looking for an investment strategy in short sales with exact steps layed out to follow and duplicate would be disappointed in this read. A lot is left for the reader to figure out on their own. For example, with respect to marketing for potential sellers, the idea of mailing postcards is discussed, which is good, however, there is little instruction/advice on how to put together an effective mailing list or what the postcard should even say. Also, there is little "real life" information regarding the exit strategies of short sales. The book discusses using an "assignment" as an exit strategy, however, most if not all lenders will not approve purchase contracts that have an assignable clause included. Therefore, this exit strategy is not effective. The book briefly discusses "subject to" transactions and fails to mention that when taking title to property "subject to" an existing mortgage staying in place, this is a direct violation of the "due on sale" clause, in which the original lender now has the right to call the loan due in full. In my opinion, this is another example of how the book lacks certain information that a reader should be told.



2. Somewhat disapointed in that the book promises downloadable forms, that can be customized.
   
   I have tried to use these forms, maybe someone else knows more?
   
   I have e mailed the IEU, and the Webmaster, and get no responce.
   
   Most of the links on their site also do not function if they apply to contacting the company.
   
   Gentle Ben



3. I did one of their short sale classes and was not happy. To cut a long story short, there is a court order out there in Gwinnett County, Georgia that Millionaire Mindset (Dwan Bent-Twyford and Sharon Restrepo run the company) pay back several thousand dollars as a refund for the course. They are ignoring the court order and leaving it unpaid. I don't recommend buying books from unethical people like this. Get your training from a local non-profit real estate investors association instead.



4. I love this book and the fact that Dwan and Sharon were so kind to include forms that I could download and uses in my business. More bang for my buck. I have their Short Sale and Wholesale programs and closed my first real estate deal using their system. Simply put, IT WORKS!!! I've seen many other programs and none of them come close to explaining the "how to's" in a step by step manner as they do. I highly recommend their books and programs.



5. Short-Sale Pre-Foreclosure Investing: How to Buy "No-Equity" Properties Directly from the Bank -- at Huge Discounts
   When I first met Dwan 3 things came to mind about her: She is Strong, knows what she needs to do and she is very Humble. The same goes for when I met Sharon. What they teach is what is best first and foremost for the homeowner. Yes, you may be investing for a living, but if you place the homeowner first before the dollar sign you will be blessed for it. Upon purchasing their book we received a free live class and so much more. The book is easy to read and straight forward.I believe all the knowledge put in this book will help me continue to go forward and achieve my goals. Thanks Dwan & Sharon for taking your time to write this book for us.

5 comments about Rich Dad's Advisors®: The ABC's of Real Estate Investing: The Secrets of Finding Hidden Profits Most Investors Miss (Rich Dad's Advisors).

1. If you are serious about investing in real estate and/or making money at it, then you must read this book. Anything associated with Robert Kyosaki is worth reading.



2. Rich Dad Poor Dad was great...this is not.
   
   The title of this book is totally misrepresentative of the contents. This book is about buying huge apartment buildings all over the US. Not what I would call ABC's of real estate investing. Furthermore, if you are buying apartment buildings then you are probably too advanced for this book anyway.
   
   The book is very basic and is easy to read. If you just want to get excited about the idea of real estate investing jump in.
   
   If you want something to actually teach you about real estate investing grab a book like "Investing in Real Estate" by McLean and Eldred. Also check out the podcast "Get Real, Real Estate Investing for the Rest of Us".



3. The book was very clear from beginning to end on how to invest in Apartment Complex's! It was step by step and logical. I would feel very comfortable using this book as my sole reference in evaluating and purchasing apartment complexes!!



4. Very simple to read and understand. Practical sound writen plans for real estate investing. Do recomend this book for any one interested in learning the real life basic's in begining real estate investing as a business small to large. Realistic reading of expearance. Made very good since. A straigt forward book of good information.



5. This was a thorough book. The author has real-life experience doing exactly what he writes about. He gives excellent advice on how to find the diamonds in the rough, and how to do 99% of your research BEFORE you spend a dime. I recommend this book to anyone in the industry. Fabulous!

5 comments about Be a Real Estate Millionaire: Secret Strategies To Lifetime Wealth Today.

1. I have read two books recently, the first one was 'Slash' by the famed Guns N' Roses guitarist and this book by Dean Graziosi, real estate mogul, telling me that I, too, can make millions in real estate. After reading both I have come to this conclusion............I'm joining a rock band!!!



2. 
   This book is not the best book ever written about real estate. More or less it is an advertisement for his real estate course. He does offer a little incite into real estate, but not enough to start investing.



3. I saw a TV ad on this book and ordered it along with all the other items that I let them talk me into because it was a "special deal" since I was new.
   As a real estate agent, I am looking for new ideas on a regular basis with plans to start flipping homes.
   I should have done my homework on Dean Graziousis as when it was all said and done, I found the book to be mostly hype and a whole lot of bragging on Dean Graziosis and what a wonderful person he is. I really cannot tell you much more about the book other than he "walks on water" in his own mind.
   I did plan on keeping the book but I attempted to return some of the products and I have never been treated so rudely in my life!! It took 50 to 60 phone calls and the best I ever received was you have called the wrong department and when I finally reached the right one, all I received was being HUNG UP ON!
   Now I am a mature adult and run my own business and I have never hung up on a customer, ever! I just cannot imagine a person who claims to care so much about people, being so shielded by hundreds of different call answering companies, most of who have no clue what you are talking about. I was supposed to get a web page with the order, was supposed to be able to cancel the "Foreclosure Alert" program, etc. I was charged repeatedly as there was no way to get through to anyone who knew anything.
   All I can say is there are a lot of honest, experienced writers out there but if you want really good advise "stay away from Dean Graziousi's and anything he has to offer, especially his good deals!



4. Dean Graziosi seems to be the only legitimate real estate guru out there today. All the others want to sell you their book, or initial information cheaply, then all they want to do is keep up-selling you more and more junk for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, from seminars, to home study programs to weekend-long "boot-camps!" Dean is different. I bought his "Think A Little Different" course off a TV info-mercial last week BEFORE I even bought his book. The book is great to get you started. He even says right in the book that you are welcome to continue your education with his courses, etc..., but he also tells you that the book is all you need to get started! The book steps you through your first real estate transaction and lays the foundation for a successful real estate investing career. I have tried Carleton Sheets and Ron Legrand with no success at all, but Dean Graziosi is the REAL DEAL!



5. This book is ok for getting some ideas but it's not going to change your life or anything like that. My suggestion is get one used for cheap if possible and go directly to the chapter you are looking for because the first 200 pages is like a "rah rah" and it's a waste of time.