All Forum Posts by: Joel A.

hi all. Just curious if you have a preference with what size vinyl plank you use? The 2mm thickness is cheap at .99 per sq ft and I'm tempted to purchase but I imagine it won't hold up too long as a rental. Is anyone out there using 2mm and if so, how long have you had it in for? Does it hold up ok?

I would use it. Looking for contractors now actually. This would make my life a lot easier.

When I lived on the east coast, I only new a few people that had guns. Here in TX, it seems almost everyone I know including women have guns. I wouldnt put too much into it. Unless you suspect the person as a shady individual of course.

I will soon be installing Vinyl Wood Plank flooring through out my whole next rental property. And I really like the look of darker color floors similar to this:

Ive read reviews that the darker the floor, the more blemishes, scratches and dust that it shows.

What color flooring do you guys put in your rentals? I'd like to make mine look similar to the picture above. That actually is also vinyl wook planks in that pic.

I left the east coast to come to texas (Austin) 8 years ago and it was the best decision I ever made. Real Estate is affordable here as a single person, people are nicer, the weather is beautiful other then July/August which may be too hot for you. Takes years to get accustomed to it. It will be a good move to come to Austin.

Hi Diego,

I only wish i had started at 22. My first investment property was when i was 28. I remember i had read and read so much info for about a year and a half before I finally pulled the trigger. I have a house now in Round Rock, Del Valle and currently have one under contract right now in HOT east Austin near Mueller. And im still super excited about investing in real estate!

Joel

looks like the rates went down again, still not under 4% but better then it was 2 weeks ago.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/markets/2013/07/03/mortgage-rates-7-3/2485835/

Edwin E. - PM sent edwin with the links. I dont really want to put the links on here and promote them. I dont have any affiliation with them.

Brian Mathews - you make valid points brian. may not be such a bad idea. Since im small time though i dont know if they would take me serious. im leaning now on building a solid relationship with a local realtor/investor. I'd feel more comfortable and would be more personable I think that way.

We'll see ill keep yall posted once I find a new deal and how I found it.

I will soon begin my search for the right investment property and had a few questions about how im considering going at it. Im looking for a buy and hold (SFR or duplex) with cash flow that fit my criteria. (50% rule)

I found a few Real Estate Investment companies in my local area who say they do the following:

- Setup customized search using your specific criteria.

- Compare the best deals, we'll provide you with important information about the property, its neighborhood, its demographic, and its past, present and future evaluation.

- Arrange for inspections and repairs. We'll attend property inspections. We'll review all reports with you and make recommendations for renegotiation of price or other concessions based on these reports. We also make sure any and all agreed-on repair work is carried out.

I mean its basically just a realtor agency that with experience in REI. Im guessing the only cut they make is from the buyers agent fee but im not sure.

Anyhow, has anyone ever used an agency like this to find your deals and has it been successful?

It sounds like most agents are weary on putting "low ball" bids for investors and that is part of my concern. I mean in order for me to find a really good deal, i need the ability to place a bunch of low offers. Offers that meet my needs. What im afraid of is that these types of companies are really NOT trying to get you the best deal but just an okay deal, one that they wouldnt purchase themselves.

Does that make sense?

Dan N.

Hi Dan!! Nice to see other investors and so close to home!! I didnt realize there was an Austin area bp meetup. That sounds great. Ill keep an eye out for it.

thanks!