Fixer’s and forclosure properties have always been the “jewels” that RE investors look for in order to make big profits. However if you dont do your home work before hand you may loose not only your investment but your profit as well.

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.

Nothing on this list is really more important than anything else. Its just here to get you to think about what exactly you need to look for. While you may have a investment that excels in one area…it cant be problem heavy in another.

I give you…THE LIST:

KNOW WHY ON PRICE

Price is the first thing an investors sees.

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 a older craftsman style home those problems are very common. is the foundation in good order? Dont forget holding costs.

Holding costs are one of the biggest profit killers to investors. Taxes, mortgage, comissions to agents (both selling and buying) gas, electric…all theses things add up…and FAST.

A poor understanding of the current market value is another major deal killer. Remember market value is a educated guess at best. No one really knows untill the apprasial is complete.

Check out other property near the one your looking at investing in. what prices are they pulling in? Are they the same size? Lot size close to the one your looking at? Same style of structure?

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Price and location are important this is true. but dont forget about the financing.

In fact, used wisely, an investor can pay full price and use this positioning to negotiate lower interest rates or a smaller down payment. Over time, the rental cash flow will be in the black because of the terms agreed upon by the buyer and seller, combined with gradual rent increases and price appreciation.

STUDY THE LOCAL MARKET

Experienced real estate investors try to learn everything about the market they are shopping in. Sometimes its the small details that give the property youre looking at the best chance to appreciate. For example: How close is the nearest church? Is the area family friendly? What is the local crime rate… is it close to good school? Where is the closest Fire/police station? Does the neighborhood have a community watch program? Next factor in the local floor plans that surround your target property. Was the last owner primarily concerned with vacancy rates, so they keep prices low instead of upgrading the property? In contrast, your research shows that particular upgrades like air-conditioning, second bathrooms, or enhanced security allow for both lower vacancies and higher rental rates.

As the man said…it is all about location.

Most investors think location is the second most critical thing in the investment next to price. Truth be told…it is only critical if you are looking for a long term residence/renter scenerio. If you can make a great profit on a ugly house in a less then great area. It may out shine the “perfect condo” by the beach.

FIX AND FLIP AND FORCLOSURES

Most new investors and some seasoned ones, seek out fix and flips and distressed foreclosures for the opportunity to increase the profit margin. If your going this route make sure you have a good eye for the details and a solid understanding of basic home repair.

With small repairs such as painting, minor landscape, and basic flooring, profits may be available but not really worth the risk. More significant profits are found with extremely distressed properties. Plumbing is corroded, the roof needs replacing, and the interior needs to be gutted and remodeled, but the seller is asking 50% of the market value and you can repair it for much less. Always factor in the amount of work that you are looking at?once you have a rough idea of the cost of the expense?add on another 5% as a buffer.

Understand the ZONE

Zoning provides an opportunity to put the property to a higher or better use and is an area many investors ignore. Higher and better use means that the owner is getting the most out of the land. For example, if a lot is zoned for three units but contains a single lot, then it is not getting its highest and best use. Or if a lot is zoned commercial, yet there’s a three unit residential building sitting on it, it is not getting its best and highest use, like a business or a store.

Understand that a single use zoned proerty is always cheaper then a multi use.

Watch out for “Owner conversions” where owners, aware of the zoning ordinance, have made changes without the oversight of the local building authority. Garages being converted to second units on a duplex lot are common examples.