All Forum Posts by: Garrett Christensen

I would suggest still using an agent, they will put it on the MLS where the most severe buyers search. You can also ask them to screen all potential buyers to ensure they are serious and already preapproved in Utah, where I am. Many FSBO listings are posted on local classified websites and from what I've seen they can about 1/10 of the views that the MLS gets.

To answer your question directly, you could post it on local investor Facebook pages, here on BP, and your local classifieds, and then just do the screening yourself.

If your lease is up in October then you've still got a lot of time to learn and get ready. These are my suggestions.

1. Keep saving and working on credit. Below 740 you'll still be getting a higher interest rate than you could get. Typically 740 and up there isn't a difference. 

2. Analyze deals every day. Make it a goal to analyze at least one deal a day. By October, you'll be a pro and will be able to spot a good deal much quicker.

3. Do work with an agent when the time comes. Find an agent that is an investor themselves. They'll be able to give you better rent estimates and also help you run numbers. They also will act as a personal coach. Having a good real estate agent is like paying for an expensive guru course, but it's free.

Hope this helps, you're definitely on the right track.

Most MLSs have that data. I'd get in touch with a good agent and they can get you all the data you need. I know it's not ideal, but you can get very specific that way.

Honestly in this scenario, I feel like the long game is better. I would try to gain a good relationship with the Landlord if you haven't already. Ask him about real estate investing and how he got started. While doing this, you'll probably learn some nuggets of info that you can use to tailor your offer to his needs.

When the time comes to ask about his property make sure you have all your ducks in a row. Be specific, you're essentially making him an offer. You also want to ensure that you can perform on that offer, so make sure you have talked to lenders and have your financing as squared away as possible. You don't want him to think you're just wasting his time.

Here are some helpful tips.

1. Keep it simple and concise. Start by introducing yourself, your REI business, and your mission.
2. Use visually appealing graphics or images that reflect your brand.
3. Consider including relevant hashtags in your post to reach a larger audience. Popular real estate hashtags include #realestate #investment #property #realtor #realty #home #homedecor #propertyinvestment.
4. Engage with your followers by asking for their opinions or feedback.
5. Most importantly, be consistent and post regularly to keep your followers engaged and informed.

Good luck with your first post! I hope it gets traction and leads to more business opportunities.

My experience with them here in Utah is that they tend to offer more rent, but the wear and tear on the property are greater. If you can find one willing to fix anything that is broken and the contract is written well (protects you) then it can be worth it. One downside is the kickback from the neighbors that can happen. As far as I'm concerned though, they need to just deal with it. These people are humans too and need a place to live, I just wanted to make sure you're aware that that could happen.

Yes, the HOA insurance policy typically covers things like the roof and other exterior maintenance. Just make sure you look into the deductible and if that is passed on to you or not. If it's not then you can plan for less maintenance and CapEx.

That is a tough decision. It's hard for anyone to give advice on such a personal decision, but I'm almost always in the position of never selling. Especially when it's a good deal like you have. This is only exaggerated not that mortgage rates are higher. If you can make something work in SD without selling I'd try to do that.

Dude you totally got this. Landlording does take time, but you just need to make some systems that will simplify things, and free up your time. I'd love to help you out if you'd like. One of my biggest regrets is that I didn't start sooner (while I was in college).

It totally depends on the rates you can get and the costs of the refinance. Typically a HELOC will have a higher rate so you'd want to minimize the amount you're using from a HELOC. However, the cost of getting two mortgages (the initial, and then the refi) will also play into that. Run through both scenarios from start to finish with the most realistic numbers you can find and see which one comes out on top. Because the end goal is the same for both options, it should be fairly easy to compare.