All Forum Posts by: Livia Adams

That's a very specific and smart set of criteria. Your needs are different from a traditional full-time agent, so finding the right brokerage that supports an "investor-agent" model is key. Many traditional brokerages focus on listing and selling volume, which might not align with your activities.

The ideal brokerage for someone like you often falls into one of two categories:

1. The Low-Cost/Flat-Fee Brokerage

These are often a great fit for agents who primarily do their own deals and referrals. They offer a simple, transparent fee structure that lets you keep most of your commission, rather than a high percentage split.

• Structure: You usually pay a low monthly fee (or even a small annual fee) and then a flat transaction fee when a deal closes. You might also have to pay a separate fee for E&O insurance.
• Pros: You keep a much higher percentage of your commission, which is perfect for your high-value commercial and wholesale deals. The low monthly cost makes it a great part-time model. They are generally hands-off, which gives you the flexibility you need.
• Cons: These brokerages often have minimal in-person office support or training. If you need a lot of hand-holding on deals or access to a physical space, this might not be the best option. They typically have a referral-based support model, which works well for you.

2. The Cloud-Based/National Brokerage

These brokerages have gained immense popularity for their flexibility and technology. They are built to support agents who work remotely and across different specialties.

• Structure: They often have a cap system, where you pay a percentage of your commission until you hit a certain cap for the year, after which you earn 100%. They also have monthly fees to cover technology and support.
• Pros: They are designed for remote work and a low-pressure environment. Many have strong internal networks where you can easily find other investor-friendly agents and commercial specialists. They also provide robust tools, training, and support through their online platforms, which is great for staying sharp without a physical office.
• Cons: The annual cap might not make sense if you're only closing a few small deals a year, though it can be highly profitable on a large commercial transaction.

My Advice for Your Search

Based on your needs, a simple, low-cost model sounds like the perfect fit. You're not looking for a traditional sales environment, but rather a place to hang your license legally and professionally. The key is to find a broker who is personally knowledgeable and comfortable with wholesaling and commercial deals. They need to understand the nuances of a double close or an assignment, and not be intimidated by it.

When you interview a potential brokerage, be upfront about your business model. Here are some key questions to ask:

• "How does the brokerage handle wholesale transactions, assignments, and double closes?"
• "What is the fee structure for commercial deals versus residential ones?"
• "Are there any quotas or minimums for transactions or sales volume?"
• "What's your policy on agent-owned deals, where I represent myself as the principal?"

By being specific, you'll quickly find out which brokers are a good fit for your unique business. Good luck with the search!

How about going upstairs, knocking on their door and having a neighborly conversation to start?

This issue has occurred several times at different properties: tenants complaining that the AC isn't cooling to a ridiculously low temperature when the ambient temp is about 40 degrees warmer. My response has been that a professional does preventative maintenance annually and confirms working order of the AC. Upon receipt of these complaints I'll personally check the temp splits ("delta T") in several rooms to confirm they are still within the acceptable range. If the tenant is still not happy I let them know they're welcome to purchase a window air conditioner so they can attain their desired living conditions. 

The AZ Landlord Tenant Act doesn't specify a mandatory minimum temp that must be attainable. It only states that "reasonable amounts" of "air-conditioning or cooling, where such units are installed and offered" must be provided (ARS 33-163). Well, I'm sure you can agree that 68 degrees is very unreasonable with an ambient temp of 114. I've received another complaint that the temp won't reach 74, but this was on their move-in day when the thermostat was at 82 the previous day. Obviously it takes time to reach such a low set point on a very hot day.

Here's where I'm looking for advice: What is the lowest reasonable temperature to set the thermostat in the dead of the summer? (I keep my house at 81 degrees so I feel rather apathetic to these issues.) Any advice on how to cordially respond to these 'work orders'?

I have a few properties in high traffic areas with at I plan to utilize by putting up some “we buy houses type signs”. I’ve realized basically every one of these signs I’ve seen is either hand written or just not professional looking at all they say “we buy houses cash” and have a number underneath . I have a good looking logo and usually try to use the best looking branding I can but maybe that is counter productive in this case. Has anyone had luck putting up “we buy houses” lawn signs of their own? And if so what approach/wording do you use? Thanks

Hello, 

I've owned my business since December 2021. I'm looking to buy a home now but larger banks such as NFCU seem to want tax returns that show lower DTI numbers, which is causing me issues as the accountant provided substantial writeoffs on my returns. Are there any alternatives to buying my home? I sold my first home last year after divorce. If anyone could help me get a mortgage or point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it.