im from rutherfordton, nc. just a rookie experiencing all the web has to offer, and i think by what ive read so far, this is my home!!!

Oliver,I have a small handful of SFH rentals in Omaha, and I'm sure you are experiencing the same lovely weather in KC that we are (a high of ZERO tomorrow!)...

Many of your replys were from agents so I would take that into consideration when reading their responses.In my experience, I have had agents scew up and cost me money on investments in the past, no one is perfect of course.My advice is this: If you are doing the work and research, are experienced enough to handle contract negotiations, etc. you can absolutely use the negotiating technique with the seller that they do not have to pay the additional 3% to a buyer's agent and as such, can reduce their price by 3%, or by 1% + 2% cash back to cover some of your closing costs.

I know that those of you who choose to live in the snowbelt wouldn’t think much of it, but Las Vegas is experiencing a mini-blizzard.

Just seems like our entire economy was addicted to easy money and the recession we're now experiencing is just the withdrawal.

So, unless you have experienced partners this is a big strike against the lender writing the loan.You are forming a brand new LLC to hold the property and be responsible for the loan.

Just looking for some food for thought from more experienced people.Scott

The basic idea of a lease option is pretty basic but the details are what will make the experience good or bad.The way that I do lease options and the most successful way I have experienced is to lock in the sales price, give a 3 year lease, and require the tenant to make all repairs.The other thing you are talking about is purchasing the home "Subject To" which simply means subject to the existing financing.

In my opinion, I don't think we will see a declination in value like we recently experienced.

From an investor's standpoint, condos usually come with HOA's (which can kill cash flow and fees can increase dramatically out of the investor's control.)Not to say that there are not any investors who purchase this type of property, but most experienced pros tend to stay away, baring some unusual circumstances, such as a condo conversion opp, or the incredible sellers market from 2002-2006 in CA, Vegas, AZ, FL, etc.