Rents are projected to keep climbing next year, and there are still panicked sellers out there, which means opportunities are popping up.

In that case, get the seller to call.

A mild recession is possible, but its impact on housing demand will depend on regional and economic conditions.

Sellers are always going to look at more money down more favorably unless the agent explains the why behind doing the FHA, especially in a competitive market.

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

Based on my experience managing a significant number of rentals, leasing back to a seller can work, but it’s essential to approach it carefully.Lease Start Date:The lease should be signed at closing and start on the same day—Monday in your case.

The ones that got called the sellers told the bank they sold..

If the seller has equity at the closing table part of the proceeds could go towards the utilities being caught up.

You magically get the seller to cover every single closing cost (A $12k gift, or a trick to get you to buy their problem.).

Are there any creative ways you’d recommend for me to identify and approach motivated sellers or uncover foreclosures?