All Forum Posts by: Thomas Williamson

@Chasity Beatty @Sabrina Long I'm now looking at properties in the Austin area.  Could either of you recommend a lender that you've had good luck with?  I invest in Atlanta, so if there's something I can do for you here just let me know.  Thanks for any help you can offer.  

Actually looked better than most of the foreclosures I buy

It's impossible to get apartments built in that district.  The people that live in that district have strong ties and influence with the county commissioners, and city councilmen for Snellville.  That's why that school district is probably the only one in Gwinnett without at least one complex in the cluster.  It's also why the schools are so good.  

Be careful investing in Gwinnett.  There's a lot of good areas and an equal number of bad areas.  Look at the schools and that will help you.

That was like listening to Joe Rogan stoned trying to make a point.  I still don't get it.......

I spoke with one of these companies as well a few years ago after hearing a representative on a podcast.  He didn't state how their company could help you get large unsecured lines of credit on the podcast, so I set up a call with them to find out more info.

When I finally spoke with someone and found out their magic formula was me opening up a bunch of credit cards, I had to laugh.  I told the guy if I wanted more credit cards I could open them up on my own and didn't need to pay them to do that.  

Those companies are just a huge rip off.

@Brandon Schlichter Wow! impressive.  I'm more interested in how did you get to so many sf units?  When did you start, how long did it take you, how are you financing, what's the average price of your properties you're buying, cost of rehab?

I ask all that because I'm super impressed with your progress!  I've been at this since 2010 and feel stuck at the moment.  Would love to hear more about your story if you don't mind sharing!  Thanks

@Ben Einspahr I think every landlord new or old experiences this, and it doesn't matter what market you're in.  Here is the strategy I use.......I don't do showings.

I got sick and tired of my time being wasted so many times, even when I would call and confirm with the person that they were still coming, and still they wouldn't show up.  So a few years ago I implemented a fail safe system that guarantees my time is never wasted.

I shoot a detailed video of each of my homes inside and out.  I then post that video on YouTube.  I put a link for the video in all of my ads and tell people watch the video for a tour of the home, feel free to go by the home and look around, look in the windows etc.

Before I do ANY physical showing, the applicant must pass my first phase screening process.  I send them my application I made and have tweaked over the years and have them fill it out and return it (this is free of charge for them).  Forgot to mention, they only get this application if they pass the phone interview.

Once they return the application, I can then verify their job status, current living situation (meaning speak to their current landlord if they're renting) confirm employment etc. all before doing one showing.  

If they return the first phase application and all checks out, then I'll invite the applicant for a showing.  Once we've done the showing the next step is the online application with Transunion My Smart Move.  I started this process over two years ago and it works like a champ.  Not one second of my time is now wasted.  

Smart real estate agents don't go around showing people properties all day long, if the perspective buyer hasn't been pre-approved for a loan.  Why would you show properties to people who ultimately might not even be qualified to rent the property.

Good luck.

@Steve Vaughan I'll pull a house off the market before I let someone use the ESA excuse to get a pet in my house.  Whether it's legit or not, no pets, my house. 

@Ray Lai shhhhhh I'm trying to decide what flavor of latte to get at Starbucks right now