All Forum Posts by: John K.

BP I need your help,

So I am a little lost in regards to property taxes. When I am looking at a property on the MLS the tax is automatically entered usually. Usually without deduction, but how far off can it be if it pulls it from the county records? For instance today I seen a rental property with taxes of $18,000 in New York, but if I go to lets say Trulia it estimates the taxes are $419 a month which equals $5028/yr. I understand websites like trulia can be off. It just sounds unreal for property taxes to be $18,000 on a $230,000 home. What is usually the easiest way to find the true property tax on a property? I have found some county's hold it online, but should I just call the county?

Thank You!

@Donald Hardy

We went over this in a class the other day. Another new agent was thinking the same way, but what really changed my mindset about making calls is how you value yourself. Think of it how you are actually helping them rather then annoying them. Although I am new myself and have yet to make any calls, but when I do start I will try to apply this same idea. Especially with FSBO's most do not know what they are getting into, and we are here to help and provide value.

@Mark W.

I actually just took the online course through NYREI and it has been a success! Considering it is online depending on your personality and how motivated you are you can slack off. I was able to commit a lot of my time and knock it out fairly quick. The course was great and also allows you to go back and refrence any quizzes or information you are seeking. I was able to get the course at such a discount I could not say no. Check out groupon for any deals if you keep clicking and it says 0.00$ then purchase it hah!

After taking the course you will be required to take the final exam they have several locations to offer including NYC. Followed by a state exam which takes place in Albany. After the state exam I have heard you get your results back in two weeks. It took me 1 day and I was able to get started right away. If you have any further questions feel free to reach out to me!

John K.

@Joe Calderon

I was in a similar situation just a week ago. I decided to hang my license with Keller Williams. I have only signed papers earlier this week, and I am already receiving great training. Also the atmosphere is amazing, and everyone seems to want to help. If you do a quick search on google or BP you will find tons of questions to ask. Most of which can be found online, but some of the questions I asked are as follows.

1. Commission split

2. Fees

3. Required desk duty

4. Terms on if I decided to leave and if I keep my listings or not

5. Training

KW seems to be very helpful for us newer agents, but also those who have been in the business for a while. They do not like to mess with people's money, and if you treat it like a business you will be just fine! Just let me know if you need anymore information happy to help!

You are absolutely right about it can be overwhelming! I am starting with Keller williams. Currently trying to find somewhat of a system which works for me. Like Russel mentioned marketing to your family and friends is your best bet right now. I did not even officially start yet, and got tons of leads and three possible listings. Its gonna be an exciting journey for all of us! just getting started. 

@Todd English

You said the vacancy should be low in the area, and it seems you did not account for it when analyzing the deal. Personally I would always account for vacancy as it is never going to be rented from the day you purchase the property. Also although its a 1bd/1ba condo you still have to account for maintenance no? Probably not as much as a MFH, but still probably a good idea to add that in there for a piece of mind.

@Karrie Strickland

 If it is for your investment business call around to brokers and find out which has the least amount of fees. For instance Keller Williams where I plan to start is only 500 a year, 70/mo. Compared to others in my town that is practically nothing. They are very agent centric and will not mess with your money.

Thanks everyone, and you are absolutely right about let the grind begin! Even prior to passing the exam I feel I been non stop at it from reading to networking. Love it though.

For those who care I took the state exam yesterday in Albany, and a day later they had posted the results which was a pass! I am extremely happy and have to thank the BP community as this is where it all started. I have such a journey ahead of me, but very excited to say the least. I hope to continue learning and also helping others here on BP!

Rich dad poor dad. That is a book I picked up when I first thought about what I am going to do in life to reach my goals. A few months later I am one determined person. I am reading millionaire real estate agent now. I am interested what others have to share!