All Forum Posts by: Ty Coutts

Hey Natalie! 

Confidence comes with knowledge and action. To improve ARV and rehab estimates, network with appraisers, contractors, and use tools like PropStream and Zillow for comps. Attend open houses to understand market trends. For contracts, consult a real estate attorney and use standard assignment agreements to stay protected. Partnering with experienced investors can also provide guidance. Lastly, build relationships with cash buyers and hard money lenders early on—they'll be key to closing deals quickly.

Lastly, if you need help with a loan or want to talk, shoot me a DM or email!

Hi Shema,

It’s great that you’re expanding into land development and mobile home parks! For larger tracts, entitlement and zoning are key, so I recommend working closely with local planning and zoning departments early on to understand regulations and potential hurdles. You may also want to consider hiring a land use attorney or consultant to help navigate any zoning changes or entitlements needed for your mobile home park.

When sourcing land, focus on parcels that are already zoned for multi-family or manufactured housing, or at least close to it, to avoid lengthy approval processes. Look for areas with strong demand for affordable housing and check infrastructure availability like water, sewer, and roads.

Building relationships with local real estate brokers and connecting with municipal contacts can help uncover off-market deals and streamline your search. Finally, be prepared for long timelines and budget flexibility due to the permitting and approval process.

Good luck as you grow your portfolio! If you need any help with the financing, Aslan is beginning to offer the Chattel loan very soon which could be a great help. If you have any questions, feel free to DM me. 

Hey Michael,

Congrats on your first development project! For the GC selection, focus on experience with similar-sized projects and strong project management skills. Check references, and ensure they have a reliable network of subcontractors for specialized work.

Regarding whether to use one GC or separate them, the first option is more efficient for oversight, but it can come at a higher cost. If you opt for the second option, you’ll need to coordinate more closely with multiple subs, which could be time-consuming.

It's crucial to have a team member overseeing the project, even if you choose one GC. They should track progress, quality, and ensure the budget and timeline stay on course. Use tools like Buildertrend or CoConstruct to manage the project, track expenses, and maintain clear communication with the GC and subs. Regular progress meetings and budget reviews will help you stay on track.

Wishing you success with your development!

Hi Phil,

in Columbus, OH, some great places to network for deals including local real estate investment clubs like the Central Ohio Real Estate Investors Association (COREIA), meetups, and events hosted by real estate brokers or lenders. Additionally, you can check out local networking events or conferences, such as those hosted by the Columbus Chamber of Commerce or real estate organizations. These venues are great for connecting with other investors, property managers, and industry professionals. If you have any more questions especially having to do with financing these future projects, feel free to DM me.

Hi Kevin,

It's great that you're involving your son early in real estate investing! It's advisable to formalize the partnership with a legal agreement, ideally drafted by an attorney. While you can start with a written agreement, a professional document will help protect both of you, particularly in terms of ownership, responsibilities, and profit-sharing. You can structure it as an LLC or joint venture, which offers clearer tax and liability benefits.

Your son doesn’t need to be on the loan or title if he's a silent partner, and you can manage the mortgage, credit, and insurance. Just ensure your legal agreement details how you both share profits and liabilities. It’s also a good idea to consult a real estate attorney and tax professional to get the best structure for your needs.

Best of luck with your investment! If you have any more questions, feel free to DM me.

Hi KeAnna! It’s great to see your enthusiasm as you dive into real estate investing. The Birmingham market has been showing steady growth, with increasing demand for both single-family homes and multi-family properties. Neighborhoods in areas like Homewood and Hoover have been experiencing strong appreciation, and the rental market continues to be strong, especially with the growing number of young professionals and college students in the area.

As a loan officer, I’m here to help you navigate the financing process, whether you’re looking for your first investment property or expanding your portfolio. Feel free to reach out with any questions about loan options or how I can support your real estate journey! Looking forward to seeing your success!

Hi J

It’s great to see Valdosta’s real estate market continue its upward trend despite rising rates and higher inventory. With median list prices and price per square foot increasing month over month, it's a fantastic time for sellers, and the decrease in days on market highlights the strong demand in the area. However, it's clear that buyers are facing challenges, and it's hard to predict when they will regain control.

As for the dip in rent prices, your theory on timing makes sense, especially with Valdosta's seasonal dynamics driven by college students and military families. It’s a good reminder for landlords to stay adaptable and ready to respond to changes in rental demand.

As an experienced loan officer in Georgia, I’m happy to help both buyers and sellers navigate this competitive market. Whether you’re looking to secure financing for a new property or refinance an existing one, I can offer the guidance and support you need to make the most of these opportunities. Let’s talk about your goals and how I can help you achieve them in this ever-evolving market!

Hey Audrey

Here's a list of things you should look for in your investment properties...

Start by assessing the property’s curb appeal and exterior condition, checking the roof for damage and foundation for cracks or moisture. Ensure there’s adequate parking and that landscaping is well-maintained. Inside, examine the structure for water damage or cracks, test the plumbing for leaks and good water pressure, and check electrical systems and outlets. Make sure HVAC systems are working properly and that windows are insulated and free from drafts. Inspect appliances for age and condition,and look over the flooring for any damage.

For tenant considerations, evaluate the unit layout for functionality and storage, and check for safety features like smoke detectors and secure locks. Listen for any noise issues and research the rental demand in the neighborhood. Outside systems like plumbing, sewage, and the water heater should be in good condition, and make sure there are no signs of pests.

Additionally, look into property taxes, insurance costs, and zoning laws that could affect future development. Finally, assess the neighborhood for safety, amenities, and potential for growth. This checklist will help you assess the property’s investment potential quickly and efficiently.

If you have any more questions, feel free to DM me.

Hi Hayley

Detroit’s resurgence offers a unique opportunity for real estate investors, with affordable property prices and strong potential for appreciation. Growing demand for rentals in neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown provides consistent cash flow, and government incentives such as Opportunity Zones further enhance the investment climate.

To add my perspective, it's important to conduct thorough market research and assess trends carefully. Consider exploring financing options like FHA loans and refinancing as the city grows. Properties in high-demand zones may also lead to better financing terms, and staying aligned with Detroit's infrastructure improvements can help ensure your investment's long-term success.

If you need any help on the financing to any of your future projects, feel free to DM me!

Hey Donald

You're in a strong position with your properties, but as you plan to move, building a reliable network is key. For remote management, start by using property management software to streamline tenant communication and maintenance requests. It’ll help you stay organized even from afar. Consider finding a trustworthy handyman through referrals from your network or local property groups or use platforms like Thumbtack for vetted options. Testing out smaller jobs with potential handymen can also ensure quality before committing to larger tasks.

Regarding financing, holding onto the properties seems wise, given the strong cash flow and equity. However, if you feel stretched managing two locations, consider long-term property management in Chicago. Alternatively, if you need liquidity for your San Diego move, explore refinancing options on your current properties to tap into some of that equity. If you need any help with the financing feel free to DM me and we can go through it even more.