First Experience at the Courthouse... kind of

So, my first time at the court house was actually a few weeks back, but I got absolutely nothing done.  Has anyone else had the experience this with the court system?  I won't take time here to complain against the employees there - I'm sure they're trying their best - but let's just say that I did not have a warm welcome there...

Anyways, on Friday (01/27/17) I went to the courthouse to inquire about a property that we found on the MLS.  As I looked through the property records, we soon found out that it was not the deal for us - the numbers just didn't work out.  But, in looking through the other property records that were in near foreclosure, we found a couple that we were very interested in.  So, we ran the numbers, went by the properties, and placed a bid!

Let me back up a little though...  I learned something really interesting in that process.  You know how when you see auctions on T.V., there's this fast talking guy saying how things are going once.... twice... SOLD! ?  Well, that is not how the real estate auctions are.  Sure, you can be there at the courthouse when the properties are being auctioned off, but the real action happens after, in the courthouse offices.  What happens there, is that people "upset" the bid that was placed on the actual auction day.  When the bid is upset, the bidding session opens again for another 10 days.  This process happens time and time again.  I'm not sure if it is indefinite or not..  I guess I'll figure that out soon enough.

So...  We are the highest bidder on two properties!  They are both town-homes - which would be a first for our company.  They are killer deals though!  This would be my first deal(s) that I brought to the company, so I'd finally feel like I am contributing!!  Very exciting.

Working at the courthouse was a very interesting experience.  It made me realize, even more, that this is a people business.  I am going to be dealing with people who are not necessarily motivated to help me out.  I need to work on my inter-personal skills.  This experience made me want to read "How to Win Friends and Influence People" again, haha.  Or maybe I should bring brownies or something next time I go..  

Real estate is just the greatest!  One minute, I'm on the computer analyzing deals..  The next minute I'm driving for dollars, to set up a direct mail campaign when I get home..  The next minute I'm "fighting" for deals at some scary courthouse office..  The next minute I'm looking at a beautiful renovated home that is under contract.  It's such an adventure, and one that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world.