Should I get a Hard Money Loan?

[Jerica S Buchanan]

Hello,

I am a first time homeowner but my dream is to become an investor. The property next door to me has been vacant for about two years. The owner was renting it out and after the tenants were gone so was he. I found a phone number for him but no one will pick up and tried to send a letter to the property next door to see if he would somehow receive it but it was returned due to being vacant. Not sure how to go about getting in touch with the owner to see if he is willing to sell so any other advice on that would be helpful.  I would really like to make it my first rental property. On the other hand if the owner is interested I’m not sure how to come up with the cash to purchase it. Should I be seeking a hard money lender or are there other options?

Thanks!