1 comments about The ABC's of Real Estate Investing (Paperback) & How to Find and Keep Good Tenants (Audio CD - 2006) (Rich Dad).

1. No doubt Ken has made a killing marketing his expertise through book sales and seminars. But don't get it twisted. Ken's expertise is real, hard-won, and proven. Be careful who you get your investing advice from. A property manager may be the most important person on your team - and that's Ken!
   
   He does not suggest that real estate investing is an easy way to make millions by only working 1 hour a week, with one hand tied behind your back - as so many real estate "gurus" suggest. It aint a gripping, emotional appeal to lead millions to become real estate investors like an alter call at church.
   
   It's a textbook, of sorts. I have successfully incorporated his conservative, methodical approach to my due diligence process for acquiring investments.
   
   Think about it: The marketers who made millions selling 'no money down' and 'weekend millionaire' how-to books are now selling how-to make millions buying foreclosures (From the poor, would-be investors who bought their first books, over-leveraged themselves, and now contribute to the flood of foreclosures on the market! Hmmmmm.).

No comments about Investing in Apartment Buildings: Create a Reliable Stream of Income and Build Long-Term Wealth.

4 comments about Defensive Real Estate Investing: 10 Principles for Succeeding Whether Your Market is Up or Down.

1. While I don't know Mr. Bronchick, I have been familiar with his training programs for several years and have found them to be of value. As for this particular book, I can't say that I found anything wrong with it -- it is chock full of the time-tested truisms that I've been reading in real estate books for years. If you've never read a book on basic real estate investing this wouldn't be a bad place to start -- I say buy it.
   
   In the spirit of full disclosure, I should say that I am an attorney, real estate broker, investor, trainer, and author of another book on real estate investing that can also be found here on Amazon -- The WealthLoop Series Beginner's Guide to Building Wealth Buying Houses: The Foolproof Roadmap to Real Estate Riches Without the Risks and Hassles of Landlording. It's part of the "WealthLoop Series" and it comes at the issue of "defensive real estate investing" from a fresh perspective that many readers are profiting from nationally.
   
   Might I suggest that you consider buying both Mr. Bronchick's book and the WealthLoop book in order to get a more complete picture of "defensive real estate investing."



2. This book goes past beginners and average investors. There are some great strategies for the advanced investor.
   Bill's and Gary's advice on LLC's and c corps. was worth the price of the book alone. I talked to my cpa and their advice will save me $8000 this year.
   From the book I found out I was paying to much for all my real estate investments. This book showed me what not to do.
   I did enjoy the real live stories also.
   Bonus, in the back of the book there are very helpful real estate forms.



3. What most impressed me about the book is how they kept the discussions and lessons lively. This made for a much easier read rather than some dry treatise on the subtleties of real estate investment schemes.
   The "pop up" style comments by Gary added a break in the proceedings to allow the reader to gather his thoughts and distill what was most important in the particular section.
   
   And, hey, it's a down market, but the book addresses all market conditions and the decision making required in all cases. I echo the sentiments of others that it is as good a place as any for real estate investors to start, and adding techniques that some seasoned veterans have overlooked.
   
   Go buy it!



4. This is one of those books like "Think & Grow Rich" that will be a classic in its field. Bronhick & Licata share little "how to", but instead focus more on the practical, "in between the lines" advice about investing. This is one of those books that is the glue that holds all the other "niche" books together, putting real estate techniques into real life perspective from a profit or business standpoint.
   
   Great stuff on cash flow. As a landlord, I can tell you that their formulas are right on the money. I liked the "don't get rich quick" advice, and particularly realistic goal setting. The "WOB IN THE MOB NEAR THE BLOB" is classic (got to read it, I don't want to give it away).
   
   This is required reading for beginners, highly recommended for all Real Estate Investors of any level.

5 comments about Making Big Money Investing in Foreclosures: Without Cash or Credit.

1. How to get the most money for your property. This topic, worthy of a book, gets a couple of pages which are platitudes. This is the second book of his I've read recently in which he talks about determining the market price. The approach he advocates will result in a variance with the market of 40%, if not more. And, he lumps apartment buildings in with houses as if they were valued the same way. Of course, they are not.
   
   On the plus side, in this book he recognizes that people do tend to get legal advice before signing a contract. He tells you how to diffuse the lawyer's criticism before it happens.
   
   During my years as an apartment broker, I dealt with more than a few lawyers, including clients. Maybe his approach will work, but I'd think not.
   
   This is another feel-good, cheerleading book. Rich Dad, Poor Dad does a better job of cheerleading, but has even less substance than this lightweight work.
   
   Once again, the author has silly sales techniques that don't work. Once again, let me point you to the best writer in sales: Neil Rackham.
   
   Spare yourself time, money and effort. Pass on everything David Finkel writes or promotes (as I shall hereafter).



2. An official Library Weekly book review.
   
   REVIEW:
   This book generically highlights a few ideas on how to invest in
   foreclosures and how to finance it without using cash or credit.
   Part of the formula is the use of "double closings" which allows
   you to simply invest with a minimal amount and use the sell price
   as the payment during the title closing. The difficult aspect of
   this is it doesn't truly describe certain foreclosure techniques
   available in each state (generically applied). Additionally,
   you may need to read this with a grain of salt with the current
   real estate market conditions.
   
   OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS ON FORECLOSURES:
   1. The Beginner's Guide to Real Estate Tax Lien and Tax Deed Auctions [ISBN 0978834607]
   
   EXCERPT:
   "There's never a better time to invest in real estate."
   
   RATING:
   3 of 5



3. I had run across my first pre-forclosure deal and needed to get a basic understanding of the steps and processes. Peter and David's book provided that wonderfully. I was able to use the steps and scripts to sign up a deal, provide help to a stressed-out seller and reach the proper department at the lender. The suggestions of how to talk to both the seller and the lender have been very helpful with dealing with the human side of things. I felt very comfortable with the style and the seller has been very appreciative. I didn't feel manipulative at all.



4. Making Big Money Investing in Foreclosures without cash or credit is a morally courageous examination of real estate investing!! Peter Conti gives powerful evidence of new ways of investing. In this successful oriented book the author minimizes risk taking and explores objective ways towards successful investing. Must read!!



5. Easy to read and understand. The Foreclosure process and strategies are presented with real life examples that help you to apply and to formulate your own strategies. It is also a good reference book.

5 comments about The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Condo, Townhouse, or Apartment: What Smart Investors Need to Know - Explained Simply.

1. The author takes great pains to dispel those lingering myths about condo ownership. She does this in a light easy tone. The book has a good layout in an easy to read format. The chapters flow nicely into one another. The author has included some very interesting case studies and anecdotes provide by others in the Real Estate field.
   
   The book is full of strong practical advice. It also pulls no punches, she makes it clear that condo townhome ownership is not for everyone. She makes sure to cover not only the good points but the bad ones as well, especially in the area of Homeowners Associations-she explains their importance and how to deal with them. All of this done in an easy friendly manner with a welcome touch of humor.
   
   The book is an excellent checklist for anyone considering buying.



2. You would be surprised at the differences between purchasing a house and opting for a condo, apartment or townhouse! This guide totally demystifies the documents and the process, laying bare the restrictions (the plusses too!) associated with shared living. My own changing lifestyle necessitated a move from a house with all its trappings, to a townhouse complex, and at first my misgivings left me with an air of uncertainty as to what to expect. The invaluable information I found in this handy manual took me step by step through the process, covering areas I am sure would have been overlooked. Those important documents including clauses relating to disclosure statements and warranties, options and ordinances, became a lot less threatening after my virtual tour of the entire process through this exhaustive guide. I even found to my utter delight, a full amortization table based on 30 years, a glossary that simplified much of the industry terminology, sample condominium rules and regulations, and last but not least, a questionnaire that prompted me to think of issues which may have later resulted in pesky little problems. The Complete Guide was for me, a jewel of a find!



3. Realtor turned author Susan Smith Alvis knows how to generate a profit-- and in her latest title, "The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Condo, Townhouse, or Apartment", she provides a no-holds-barred, handy reference aimed at maximizing your multi-family property investment dollars. Here, Alvis draws upon her considerable knowledge and "insider's" perspective to lay bare the complexities -- from shopping to closing-- of these unique transactions utilizing a deceptively simple, straightforward tone and format; while her expertise is apparent throughout each chapter, the book's major strength lies in its easy readability and common-sense advice. Another plus -- though it is primarily oriented toward the first-time investor, the author has devoted substantial material to the buyer intent on occupying a shared housing unit full-time. No consumer is excluded, and, indeed, it is a fair assertion that even the seasoned landlord will glean new and relevant information from this guide.
   
   Clearly, the work is tailored to the conscientious buyer. As such, Alvis: defines -- in a logical, step-by-step fashion -- the differences between these specialty properties; illustrates: the necessary considerations based upon the buyer's goals; uncovers: the challenges specific to these structures via varied scenarios; and, more importantly, educates. And, in addition to her own hard-earned insights, this veteran real estate professional includes solid counsel and oft-unknown purchase tips from colleagues representing a cross-section of national markets. These tips -- all gems and presented in a fun, "classified case study" quote context -- outline realistic scenarios designed to navigate the prospective condo, townhouse, or apartment owner through unforeseen wrinkles and avoid potential pitfalls so as to culminate in a successful sale, regardless of occupancy or investment intent.
   
   Ultimately, "The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Condo, Townhouse, or Apartment" is an invaluable reference for the homeowner or investor considering a shared housing unit(s) acquisition.



4. Despite all the fluctuations in the real estate market these days, buying a place of their own is still high on the list of priorities for many people. However, an increasing number of buyers are examining the advantages of shared housing space, as opposed to purchasing a house. Whether you're thinking about investing in a condo, townhouse or apartment for yourself or as an investment, first pick up a copy of Susan Smith Alvis' useful guide.
   
   Alvis offers potential homeowners a better understanding of the difference between the different types of properties, and examines the benefits and drawbacks of shared housing. While some might prefer the greater degree of privacy provided by a single-family home, the alternative offers advantages such as low maintenance and a sense of community. But, Alvis notes, real estate professionals always say, "Location, location, location," for a good reason. Whether you're buying a condo, townhouse or apartment as a place to live or as a rental property, bear in mind that it is important to ask questions such as: Why is the property for sale? How many bedrooms and bathrooms does the place have? Is it close to schools, work, and shopping?
   
   In addition to explaining important documents such as disclosure, and insurance forms, Alvis closes her book with an extensive glossary of property-related terms that are clearly defined. She also includes a financial table that will allow potential homeowners to calculate their monthly payments. So, before you buy, first invest in a copy of Alvis' valuable guide. She'll help you get the best value for your money.



5. I am planning to buy a Townhouse or Condo in the near future. So, I was looking for a book which gives some practical advise comparing the shared housing with Single family residence and trends in the shared housing over the last few decades. I found this book and bought it looking at all these good reviews on amazon.
   
   But, I am disappointed. The advise in this book is too simplistic. It basically boils down to two below points.
   - You will have less maintenance in a Condo, Apartment or Townhouse compared to a Single Family Home
   - You will have more privacy in a Single Family Home
   
   Instead, I was looking for some practical advise based on the author's vast experience.
   One thing is, this book doesn't have many practical experiences and examples. All the information and advise in this book may fit into a 5 page article.
   
   From my limited experience of looking for townhomes here in San Francisco Bay Area, I can see lot of differences between townhouses built in 1970's, 1980's and in the last 15 years. Like the houses built before 1990 usually have more square footage and more patio space whereas ones after 1990 have less square footage, but a better home design in terms of home usability. I was not particularly looking for trends in California or Bayarea, rather at least high level mention of these trends. But, no where something like that was discussed.
   
   Although book has 284 pages, the actual pages excluding Appendix is only 174 and the remaining Appendix pages have things like Mortgage Calculator, Glossary ..etc which you can easily find online. Also, the chapters doesn't seem to follow a logical flow.
   
   All the above said, however, there is some useful information in this book like some general useful info about apartments, condos, townhouses, vacation homes and home owners association ..etc.

5 comments about How to Pay Little or No Taxes on Your Real Estate Investments: What Smart Investors Need to Know - Explained Simply.

1. With the current state of our unsteady economy, investing can be a daunting and downright frightening prospect. The average person wants the security of knowing that their investments are working for them in the best possible way. Many people are intimidated by the idea of investing in real estate, but by doing some research, those fears can be alleviated. In fact, by gaining some basic knowledge of tax codes, you will discover that there are many financial opportunities for a savvy investor who knows how to use them to their advantage.
   
   Brian Kline's book provides average people with expert advice and know-how to reap greater profits in real estate investments. Kline delves into the often-confusing world of taxes and fishes out the good stuff - giving readers little known "secrets" to maximize their investments. Essential topics such as depreciation, 1031 exchanges, and capital gains tax are explained in a reader-friendly manner, with plenty of case study examples. The book is also chock-full of charts and portions of the IRS tax codes that provide the beginning investor with practical information and handy references.
   
   This book also has a lot to offer the intermediate investor. The wealth of information devoted to 1031 exchanges alone gives the seasoned investor plenty of new avenues by which to increase their income. The material presented is also up-to-date, with a majority of the tax codes as recent as 2006, which makes this a useful refresher for the advanced investor to skim through for any changes and updates.
   
   Overall, this book serves the needs of the novice and advanced investor alike, who are both looking for ways to use the many real estate tax advantages available to them to accumulate their wealth. This is a book you will refer to over and over again for practical information and deserves a spot on any serious investor's bookshelf.



2. I've been looking into the possibility of real estate investment, but I got concerned about a number of things, including capital gains taxes. When I first saw the title, I was afraid that it was another "get-rich-quick" book. I was delighted to see that it wasn't. The book focuses on how to reduce your taxes legally and how to plan your real estate investments. I appreciated both emphases.
   
   I had never realized that my retirement account could be a source for funds for investing. The book provides careful and detailed advice about the possibilities, limitations, and the pitfalls of doing that. I'm also new enough to real estate that I'd never heard of 1031 exchanges or installment sales before, but those sections were especially clear and in depth. I'd heard of trusts, of course, and was impressed by the wealth of material provided. Another helpful feature was the numerous case studies. I learned a lot from this book.
   
   This isn't a book that you'd pick up for an evening's casual reading, but it is clear and detailed. If you're looking into the possibility of real estate investment, I'd recommend it.



3. This book was well written, straightforward, and easy for the layperson to understand, as well as someone familiar with the real estate industry. It introduces the reader to real estate terminology and outlines a number of strategies to legitimately increase wealth through real estate. It gives in-depth information on the 1031 exchange, charitable trusts, etc. The author takes excerpts of the tax law to supplement the strategies he outlines, which is helpful and indicates the validity of his suggestions. The case examples give the reader an understanding of how they can make wise choices at various stages of real estate acquisition, ownership, improvement and sales. The author lists conditions necessary to take advantage of the various strategies and plans available, and also includes information on prohibited transactions. He uses tables to illustrate the gains to be made using the strategies, and includes a chapter that takes the reader step-by-step through the process of preparing a wealth strategy. The final chapter is an account of a fictional couple, and their experience in real estate investment, utilizing the strategies provided by the author. I would recommend this to anyone considering an investment in real estate, and also to realtors and other professionals in the industry.



4. With the recent housing market slump, Brian Kline offers readers advice on protecting their investments while still turning a profit. He effectively uses existing tax codes to teach readers how to accumulate wealth through real estate investments. His methods and advice on using such strategies, like the 1031 exchange, are conducted within the legal limits of the law.
   
   Many times, the topics discussed quickly become boring with legal jargon an industry talk. While some of this is necessary, Kline does a nice job of mixing in real-life examples. He accompanies these examples with charts and "the math" completed so the reader can easily understand the topic of discussion. Throughout the book, he offers several case studies of industry leaders using several of the topics he discusses. These offer real world application for his advice.
   
   Kline explains how Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) can be used to acquire and shield wealth. IRA's can be invested in anything the owner believes will bring a good return on investment. Charitable remainder trusts eliminate capital gains and create a charitable tax deduction. He even offers readers a step-by-step, in-depth look at 1031 exchanges, and how they function.



5. Despite the roller-coaster ride that is better known as the real estate market, real estate in and of itself remains - even in these volatile times -- a sound and practical investment. The trick -- explains author Brian Kline is his illuminating book "How to Pay Little or No Taxes on Your Real Estate Investments" -- is to know how to make your money work for you in the smartest possible way.
   
   Not necessarily an easy read, but definitely an important resource for both the layman and professional - I give this book high marks not only for the time Kline spends explaining the ever-so-confusing tax code system into a concept as simple as "tax-code knowledge and application = profit" but also for his thorough examination of the multiple methods available for deferring or eliminating taxes to fit the reader's specific needs, goals and objectives.
   
   Furthermore, Kline does a great job of personalizing all the legal and technical jargon with a nice mix of real-world examples. Even going so far as to include several case studies offered up by many of today's real estate big shots who use the principals outlined in this book.
   
   Of particular interest to me was Chapter 9: Wealth Goals and Strategies, in which Kline addresses such topics as Passive vs. Active Income, Risk Limits and Getting Started Strategies. It's true says Kline that with the accumulation of wealth comes experience and knowledge. But how does the novice get to that point? This book will show you how. Kline goes on to note that an experienced investor will recognize a misrepresented property or profits. The experienced investor likely has a feel for business cycles and is better suited to optimize the buy and sell timing. Chapter 9 alone is worth the price of admission. Remember, every individual has a different tolerance for risk. The key is not taking risks that you cannot afford.
   
   Also of particular interest are Kline's explanation, demonstration and practical application of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) and how they can be used to acquire and - more importantly -- shield wealth. According to Kline, IRA's can be invested in anything the owner believes will bring a good return on investment. And anything that brings in a good return is a good thing.
   
   Now I freely admit that if you're a novice investor like myself, its easy to get derailed with the never-ending use of acronyms, technical and financial terms. My advice to you: read and re-read. Familiarity breeds confidence and this book of knowledge contains all the secrets you need to translate that first real estate purchase and turn it into the cornerstone of a real estate empire. Donald Trump could pick up a hint or two as well.
   
   Kline points out that "...Historically, real estate outperforms the stock market's" and that "...Real estate investing can be one of the surest and most dependable methods of systematically acquiring wealth." If that is true - and I certainly believe that it is, then Kline's book, "How to Pay Little or No Taxes on Your Real Estate Investments" is certainly a step in the right direction.
   
   I give the book 5 stars.

5 comments about The Complete Guide to Real Estate Options: What Smart Investors Need to Know - Explained Simply.

1. "The Complete Guide to Real Estate Options: What Smart Investors need to Know - Explained Simply" by Steven D. Fisher is an astoundingly easy to read book. It provides step by step guidance to becoming a savvy real estate investor and especially in view of the Lease Option Strategy. This book has everything a consumer needs to know. Fisher covers both the advantages and the disadvantages of the Lease Option Strategy. The book also covers every aspect of what it takes to become a successful Real Estate Proprietor ranging from the importance of developing and maintaining the right attitude to becoming a wise and successful landlord.
   
   Fisher teaches you how to effectively get started as a new investor and how to avoid legal drawbacks by following steps to comprehensively set goals as you manage your business and property. You will learn the importance of organization in every area of your life in relation to success; from managing your credit properly to organizing your office. You will even learn how to organize and apply a successful "action plan."
   
   "The Complete Guide to Real Estate Options" teaches the real estate student how to build a rapport by using exercises that will help you to become a success in the real estate arena.
   
   This book, chapter by chapter will inspire any up and coming investor and even a seasoned investor to acquire his or her goals more quickly and easily. If you're looking for a good book that will teach you the ins and outs about real estate investing, this is the book for you. I give this book two thumbs up and without doubt a 5-Star rating.



2. One could well imagine Mr. Stephen Fisher, author of The Complete Guide to Real Estate Options What Smart Investors Need to Know - Explained Simply sitting down to write this book and applying many of the principles he's about to articulate to the production of the book itself.
   Aided by quotes from a variety of well-known personalities (Mark Twain, Warren Buffett, Tiger Woods, et al), Mr. Fisher sets out an exhaustive, step-by-step plan for anyone who is now, or ever has considered real estate investment as the best way to make a living. He does so very meticulously and with a great deal of attention to detail. Chapter headings and indeed, much of the text could be applied to starting any kind of business, or, as noted, to writing a book about starting any kind of business: Attitude is Everything (Chapter 2), Getting Started (Chapter 4), Some Basic Principles (Chapter 5).
   It is clear from reading carefully that Mr. Fisher has done his homework in the field of real estate options and in particular, believes that the `lease option' is the best way for investors to go. With over 25 years of experience in the fields of business writing and training and development, it should come as no surprise that he has crafted an excellent instruction book on the ins and outs of buying and selling real estate. He has included interactive options for the practical entrepreneur, like check lists, and blank forms that the reader can use to track his/her own progress, whether it be in evaluating a property, the neighborhood that it's in or the buyers who want to own it.
   He uses clever acronyms to crystallize reader thinking about specific subject matter. In an early section about "setting goals," he suggests that the reader/entrepreneur utilize the "SMART" method of creating those goals - Specific, Measurable, Action-Oriented, Realistic and Time-Bound. Near the conclusion of his book, he recommends that those seriously interested in pursuing real estate investment "SWOT" themselves; in other words conduct an objective analysis of individual Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.
   His style is very casual, very confident and well within the grasp of an average reader. Fisher isn't speaking to experienced professionals here, although even the most seasoned of those could likely find a great deal of food for thought here as they continue their pursuit of real estate deals. He's talking to the person who's considering this particular career path and if it's one that interests you, you could do no better than to start with him and this book.
   Take notes. There isn't a quiz later, but if you head out on the route he's plotted for you, you're going to want to look back and remember some of the specifics



3. Having always wanted to make a fortune in property I've just bought my first house. But I wish I'd read this book before hand! It would have given me a tonne of knowledge about my options in property and I may have made a different decision.
   
   What I liked most about the book was that it really did assume no prior knowledge - it even started with a whole bunch of guides on how to get motivated and set goals and prepare yourself, before you even make your first step. Plus including things like real estate market psychology takes it beyond boring old numbers and statistics!



4. If you've been tempted to invest in real estate but the jargon, the paperwork and the cost seem a little scary, pick up a copy of Steven D. Fisher's handy book. This well-written volume offers a clear and concise picture of some of the basic tools you'll need to gain a foothold in the field. Whether your goal is to purchase just one investment property or create a massive portfolio, Fisher offers an understandable, common-sense approach to buying real estate.
   
   He begins by explaining both the advantages and disadvantages of real estate lease options, a method that allows potential buyers to invest only a fraction of their funds in a property. The examples provided by the author allow beginners to visualize how the process works. One of his most valuable chapters offers readers the opportunity to create their own "action plan," which outlines all the goals they seek to accomplish. Planning is key, Fisher advises, along with a positive attitude and the willingness to learn more about changes in the real estate market. Don't overlook basics like knowing your financial limitations and credit rating before you attempt to invest.
   
   But, Fisher does more than walk the reader to the front door of that new property. Once your purchase is complete, he takes you inside by explaining how to work with repairmen, how to find good tenants, and also provides an inside look at relevant matters such as taxes and maintaining your property. So, whether you're a newcomer to the field or someone who wants to brush up on investment techniques, let this clearly-written practical handbook be your guide.



5. The contemporary real estate market has left a wake of uncertainty in the minds of many investors. Though risk is inherent in any investment decision, the real estate market reflects real-world conditions as well as individual perception of market conditions.
   
   The Complete Guide to Real Estate Options: What Smart Investors Need to Know - Explained Simply is a non-nonsense guide to a specific type of real estate transaction: the real estate lease option. As explained by Steven Fisher, the book's author, the lease option is a lower-risk approach. As contrasted against the real estate purchase option, the lease option requires less money and limits exposure to the risks associated with property ownership.
   
   The Complete Guide offers strategies for researching, marketing and developing the necessary attributes to become a successful entrepreneurial investor. It also gives templates for sample letters and exercises that help build the skills required to build your own real estate business. The Complete Guide is a must for anyone interested in being successful in today's real estate market. It is a practical read as well as a handy reference for lease option investing. An added benefit: the publisher is donating a portion of their profits to the Humane Society, on behalf of the passing of their beloved office canine, Bear.

5 comments about Find It, Fix It, Flip It!: Make Millions in Real Estate--One House at a Time.

1. Not sure, I'd recommended this for someone unless you are flipping at California area.
   Thanks
   Hobi



2. I am in the real estate business in Florida.Great book! Easy- to- read, clear, concise and instructive with alot of general real estate info as well as a clear, excellent guide to finding a property, fixing it, finding the buyer and flipping it.Separated into three areas for easy reference with specific advise about pitfalls as well.
   Overall, a very recommended buy for anyone interested in flipping properties.



3. I've read a number of books on this subject and found this one much more detailed and filled with far more practical information than the others.
   He even gives you a method to figure out the profitability of a flip that's easy to use. This allows you to set a budget for your flip so you know where you need to be to make money. His no BS approach keeps your feet on the ground so you understand that a lot of what you have to learn is through experience but he gives you enough info to be well armed to win.
   E. Lobato



4. This was the third book I read on the subject of flipping real estate and while it wasn't worst book I've read, much of the information seemed to be a repeat of what the others covered. There still is plenty of information contained within that other authors never mention, so this is still worth reading if you're exploring the topic.
   
   I started with Kirsten Kemp's Flipping Confidential which I found to be a well organized primer on flipping. If you've never read any books on the subject, start with that book first.
   
   If you want a true, step-by-step manual, try Rick Villani's FLIP: How to Find, Fix, and Sell Houses for Profit. After reading that book, I felt like I had a clear program to follow and had I had the cash, I would have been ready to start flipping.



5. Good book, easy to read with easy-to-use formulas. However, it is meant for beginners; there's alot more to know about the process.

5 comments about Start Small, Profit Big in Real Estate: Fixer Jay's 2-Year Plan for Building Wealth - Starting from Scratch.

1. The author gave "how" examples and easy to understand explainations to help you build wealth.



2. I loved Fixer Jay's original book, Investing In Fixer Uppers, so I was thrilled to buy his second book as soon as I heard about it. It is an ok book, but it is his original book in a new cover. Even some of the sentences are the same. It was kind of like listening to a friend who tells you the same stories without remembering that he has told you already, using the same words, gestures and inflection. I was dissapointed that there is actually no explanation for creating a 2-year plan anywhere in the book. The closest thing that I could find to a 2-year plan, was a sentence on page 8 that said, "Two years after you acquire your first property, you should have a dependable income, assuming that you're following my strategies." Then comes an analogy that investing in real estate is like kissing frogs to find a prince. I suppose that it is, but it didn't help me with a 2-year plan. If you are interested in fixing up houses to rent for income, don't hesitate to buy Jay's first book-I have read it 5 times, and am using his strategies from that book right now, having just fixed up an older house in my neighborhood. With 3 month's part time work, I now have 28k in equity, and 209.00 per month positive cashflow, on my first fix-up ever, thanks to his first book. The house was even owner financed, 2% down, and deferred payments too! (Jay's strategies) Don't bother with the 2-year plan book though, because it isn't anything new.



3. This book has the strong qualities of Jay's first book - written in a easy-going, lay-back style that makes it enjoyable to read, and it presents an eminently useful model that really works.
   
   Jay says to avoid slick and flashy techniques because "slick is another word for slippery." He points out the gurus who formerly expounded on a wide assortment of get-rich techniques are "either bankrupt or working in gas stations." Jay advises to stick with run-down, fixer-upper types of properties. Buy low, and improve their value, and rent them out. I's a winning formula that I, and many others, have used to make money in real estate.
   
   I particularly liked Jay's technique of taking a low key negotiation approach, like the former TV-detective Columbo when he interrogated suspects. Instead of putting the seller on the defensive, don't directly tell them what's wrong with their house. No one wants a complete stranger to come up and criticize their house. Always show respect to the seller, and have the seller tell you what's wrong with the house by asking him a series of polite questions. Listen carefully to what the seller has to say. You can learn a lot by listening. Don't be critical, never talk down to anyone. Even sellers who must sell, won't sell to you if you try to intimidate them. Jay points out that you still must diligently verify any information you get from the seller. One way to do that is to ask for their "Schedule E" tax form.
   
   Another key to Jay's formula is turning motivated sellers into bankers. This is something that a lot of us, myself included, need to work on. If we follow Jay's advice and get the seller to finance at least part of the loan, the purchase process suddenly becomes much easier.
   
   I also liked Jay's memo system of dealing with renter problems. In using this system, I find it simplifies my dealings with renters. If you call and tell them to do something, they forget. If they see it in writing, in an official-looking memo, they will usually, but not always, do what you ask them to do. It reduces direct contact with them and it gives you written documentation in case you later need it later to remove them from the house. I like Jay's comment "tenants don't intimidate me because they are simply no match for my landlording skills." A bold attitude that we should all aspire for.
   
   Overall, there is a lot to like about this book. If offers sound advice for the new, and the seasoned, investor. The Columbo negotiating technique alone was worth the price of the book for me.
   
   
   Terry Sprouse is author of the book: "Fix 'em Up, Rent 'em Out: How to Start Your Own House Fix-up and Rental Business in Your Spare Time."



4. Author's basic premise makes sense-- there is money to be made buying fixer upper single-family houses that are rehabbed and rented for investment income. Author suggests focusing on houses that require cosmetic repairs and/or sweat-equity repairs that offer cost savings via investor completed repairs versus hiring and paying a professional.
   
   Book's shortcomings include ad nausea repetition, a lack of practical how-to advice and too many references to investment returns based on gross income versus net income or before tax cash flow (i.e., A $100,000 house that rents for $1,000 per month does not produce a 12% return unless the tenant covers all operating expenses, capital improvements and there is no debt service. John Schaub's single-family house investment books offer a more detailed road map.



5. There is some good, useful information in this book. But personally I found it hard to get past the country boy, hick lingo that he uses so much. For example, "Never Try to Milk a Steer". There are so many metaphors like this, I couldn't get through the whole book because I was laughing instead of absorbing the information. Most of the information is good, but if the book was more well written it would be alot better. I stopped reading this book and moved on to another one that I purchased at the same time, Millionaire Real Estate Mentor, I think its written by Russ Whitney or Ross Whitney, something like that. That one is awesome so far and I would recommend it above this book any day.

1 comments about How To Be A Dirt-Smart Buyer of Country Property.

1. Curtis Seltzer's book, How To Be a Dirt-Smart Buyer of Country Property, delivers. It shows readers how to protect themselves when buying country property.
   
   It's a comprehensive reference book with a long shelf life. While state and federal regulations will change, Seltzer's basic approach to researching the risks in property and determining its value will never be out of date.
   
   I never knew there was so much to know about farms, second homes and timber land--not to mention purchase-offer contracts, borrowing, lawyers, lenders, foresters, surveyors, contractors, inspectors, real estate brokers and sellers.
   
   This is a huge book, but Seltzer makes the reading easy. He includes lots of personal experience and anecdotes from his consulting practice. He's also a very funny guy.
   
   If you're looking for country property, buy this book first.