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Updated almost 2 years ago on . Most recent reply
![Edgar Sanabia's profile image](https://bpimg.biggerpockets.com/no_overlay/uploads/social_user/user_avatar/2700440/1679599694-avatar-edgars75.jpg?twic=v1/output=image/crop=768x768@60x0/cover=128x128&v=2)
questions for a investor
as a successful real estate investor what is a couple of things that are necessary to successful in this industry ?
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![Doug Smith's profile image](https://bpimg.biggerpockets.com/no_overlay/uploads/social_user/user_avatar/151144/1708640873-avatar-bankerdougsmith.jpg?twic=v1/output=image/crop=960x960@0x0/cover=128x128&v=2)
If I had to pick a couple. #1 would be getting a consistent, fair contractor that delivers when they say they will. They seem to be unicorns. When you find a good one, tell them you won't nickel and dime them if they don't do it to you. Having that relationship is key. #2 I would say is to understand how to back into a strike price on a buy. Starting with the ARV and then subtracting out reasonable profit, rehab and sales costs, the time value of money/carrying costs, contingency reserves, etc to come to a maximum amount you'll pay for a property and then stick to it no matter what. It's all just a math problem. If you can't get your price, don't get romantic about it. Walk and get the next one. I would have to say those are my top 2.