We see this tactic in the grand rapids area of single family homes.   

To that point I'm also looking to rapidly accelerate what we have in our portfolio... not executing on deals isn't the answer. 

It was my first investment and it wasn't much of a deal but on a 15 year note had rapid debt pay down and years later was able to refi and purchase a mulit-family.

Hey GuysI'm a licensed general contractor in Grand Rapids and I have been a custom home builder for the last 5 years. 

I have done that already, and in short I came to following high level findings.Positive impact on appreciation: -area was historically undesirable due to association with “East Austin” demographic stereotype, but that his changed rapidly in last 10 years due to proximity to downtown, universities, corporations moving in, redevelopment of parks/recreations etc.

Like others have said above the area is growing rapidly!

(As what happens frequently thanks to the rapid changes in technology) bottom line the industry was no longer fulfilling me and I had no desire to rekindle that flame.

Would love to hear any opinions on either of these markets as I'm currently researching what it would be like to purchase in Austin vs Iowa City/Cedar Rapids area.

Edmonton Alberta CanadaI am very new to real estate and am currently renting a property through a property management  company .After doing some market research I have discovered the neighborhood I reside is rising in value quite rapidly (riverside location beautiful parks and recreational area's )Now my question to everyone (pardon my ignorance)If I wanted to approach the house owner regarding a Lease option would I try to get his information from the property management company or would I contact the property management company about wanting to lease option.I feel as though it would conflict against the property management company seeing as how they make money from me renting .Any advice would be appreciated immensely !

Hi Bowman, it seems to me that your biggest disadvantage will come from the lack of knowledge about what is feasible in the market you are in, because I think that should largely affect what your acquisition strategy is.For example you may want to buy something that cashflows but if you are in a rapidly appreciating market like we are in right now in the Twin Cities, you will have a hard time finding something to get excited about and will need to target different asset types or adjust to find another way to get your money to work for you.In this market your advantages aren't particularly helpful as there is so much money chasing deals, that the ability to qualify for financing doesn't really set you apart.