I'm glad to see that the site is growing and thriving.

A lot of us got burned badly during that time so it would be great to assemble something concise and specific that has stories and advice from investors that survived (or thrived), in spite of the crash, that we can use as actionable steps to fortify our current business plans.Right now I'm only doing flip projects because it limits my risk.

The balloon minimizes the damage to the notes value, since it gives the opportunity to, at a minimum, reset the rate on the note even if the borrower can't refinance.Among other things, it's also a good idea to pull the borrower's credit and to use a loan servicing company to create appropriate file documentation and payment history, again to maximize the value of the note in a potential resell situation.Many investors have built thriving businesses selling property w/ seller financing, seasoning the note for a year to establish payment history, and then selling the note at a large gain to their original cost position in the property.

I don't know that there's a "good" or "bad" place to invest (aside from obvious war zones, and even in those places there are particular investor types who thrive)- it all depends on the individual.

." - high school friend.Not only did I take up cross country skiing, but I thrived.

Out of those who do, most are not really thriving or are too new to have a history, let along staying power.

I've got a start up restaurant concept in East TX that would probably thrive in your area.

There have always been too many factors to control and predict, and today's global economy only makes it that much more complicated.I do agree that our economy thrives on a deficit, but it is a matter of degree.

Since you've probably forgotten more about money than I'll ever remember, you're on your way and in a great place to thrive.

Network with Experienced Investors in the area/find a potential mentor- I'm eager to learn and absorb as much as I can from a seasoned investor that knows how to thrive in this highly competitive market--On top of having a decent amount of cash, I bring a ton of sweat equity to the table as well as a solid network of contractors to get a job done