Keep it simple, search the 203k contractor database, you wildlife one in your area, call a few then pick best one.These are the basics if you need more help send me a private message, happy to help.Much Luck! 

When I search through the DC real property assessment database I discovered that alot of the vacant homeowners have $10,000+ in back taxes.

I ended up developing my own database driven software.

i know a 30 year note would kill me in interest but the margin between my rental and debt service would enable me to amass more properties with the cash flow im generating...

No online database in my towns, so I had to physically go to Town Hall and look for the titles there.Here's what I found on property 1 (the owner is listed a person):1986 - Warranty Deed1987 - MECL (what is this??

Greg,I agree with Wayne you can likely get some of this flushed out by a quick glimpse at the free online recorder's database.

It takes a lot of time and back ground work to build a database of qualified buyers which sellers rarely see.I wouldn't count on the fact that you know each other to mean all will be amazing with this transaction and the seller will give you such a good deal.

Recently an interesting opportunity arose that could enable me to bid adieu to the desk job and enter the real estate field full time.The business mainly features gutting and rehabbing row homes for immediate resale in Baltimore, MD.

Val you do not have to be a REALTOR to hold a broker or agent license.At least not in my state.A REALTOR is belonging to NAR and paying yearly dues and subscribing to their code of ethics.Just because a broker/agent does not belong to NAR doesn't mean they do not have Ethics.As far as it being a short sale that is another correction.Most asset managers on a short sale if you are double ending they try to cut you to 4% and you end up at 5%.If I get 5% but you want me to give you 2% back I am representing you for FREE.There are people out there who think brokers/agents are not worth what they get paid.I don't give those people the time of day.The reason is I have a network of clients that pay me great money, a lot of money to reach their goals.I don't work with people who will fight me every step of the way.If you are landing a great deal you shouldn't care what the broker/agent makes period.I have brokers/agents that are buyers that tell me on my commercial deals to keep ALL the commission.They are getting such a great deal they want to be at the top of my list when I get more apartment buildings,retail,etc.They see the bigger picture.If you treat a broker/agent right they will feed you the great deals.I want someone who is not a hassle,pleasant to do business with,and keeps their word and follows through and closes the deal.Negotiations are tough but can be completed in a professional manner.Investors don't have to be nasty to get a deal done.I work with many investors who drive hard bargains but are very professional through the whole process.They are fair but tough and easy to work with.My father who has passed away showed me how you "get more with honey than you do with vinegar".Of course there is a time to not be nice but not upfront.I tell people do not EVER mistake my kindness for weakness or you will be in for a surprise.I have over 1,000 investors in my database looking for deals calling me saying "do you have anymore commercial property??".

Track all the calls/ emails/ contacts and viola -you're building a buyers' database.