All Forum Posts by: Robert Seltzer

Breaking into a new field is always challenging.  You don't need another degree, but you do need to start practicing the analytical skills that you will apply in the new role.  Finding a way to attach yourself to an existing deal as "slave" labor is one approach.

I have not attended any FTF networking sessions in the Houston area, but have many properties.  HCAD is an excellent online resource to get a picture of the market. 

We have multiple properties in Katy.  I do not see crime as an issue as this was mentioned as a risk factor above.  Also, you can purchase outside of the 500yr flood plain and reduce your risk dramatically.  The homes cashflow; however, an investor must be prepared to pay a bit more for the property.  

We own multiple properties in the Katy area -- cash flow is the objective.   I am a firm believer in cash flow over all other factors.  Investors are confused today as a consequence of the level of appreciation that has occurred in many US markets.  Negative cash flow with appreciation is not a long-term model for success.  Real estate provides the opportunity to get rich slowly in a way that is sustainable.   

Diversification across asset classes limits volatility over time.  Every asset class identified above has crashed in the last ten years and if an investor was 100% vested in any one of them they would have been badly impacted. 

Smart Home technologies reduce operating costs through monitoring and access to critical resources like power, water gas.  So the question is whether having real-time access to these items will reduce the operating costs for your property for both you and the tenant. 

It took time for my wife to have the same enthusiasm as I do.  And even today her key question is "Why do we want to scale further?"  The key is to align on goals.  Part of it might be to transition out of the corporate grind.  It might also be to leave a legacy for our children.  The finally component is having the same level of understanding in this business and it is not a complicated business.  It is more about alignment on emotions and expectations.  Good luck!

Thank you for the timely reply.  Very helpful.  

I need advice on a possible 1031 exchange. I would like to sell an investment property and transfer the proceeds into an existing investment (SFR) instead of identifying another purchase. Is this permitted?

-Robert

Fellow REIs...I am looking for a mortgage broker in Houston.  Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Robert