system in getting a repair estimate to make an offer

[Matt Berklacy]

In regards to getting repair estimate on a potential rehab flip to make an offer...what works best, efficient and is duplicatable...

** Do you walk through the property yourself with an agent, (pre-offer). Do a repairs needed numbers guestimate, then make offer? .......(and if accepted, then have a licensed contractor confirm scope of work number, during due diligence?)

** or do you pay someone with construction experience to meet the agent to let them in, and give a quote, before or after offer..

issue:

1. Is there a faster efficient way..(particular if buyer is out of state, or has no construction experience, and agent gets paid by seller..)

2.. If it is an auction property not allowing any due diligence, or look inside...how do you make an offer..

[Sean Carroll]

@Matt Berklacy in my area it is impossible to get a contractor to walk through with you prior to ownership. But I have never offered to pay someone to do it. I typically look at all the pictures on the MLS and sometimes call the listing agent to ask about what needs repair or updating or if she has anymore pictures. I have a worksheet I made getting numbers from odd jobs done on my rental properties and from j Scott's book and run the numbers worse case scenario with some added fluff for budget protection. I then offer contigetnt on an inspection/wall through if they accept or get close to my real maxible offer I then go and tour the property.