It's great to have you and indeed this is a great site to grow and develop your skills in real estate investing.

Relying on appreciation is just speculation to a degree (unless you're factoring in cash flow improvement due to property upgrading and improved management, which I wouldn't consider appreciation; that's a skilled turnaround).

If you don't see that type of house as money in the bank this isn't for you.We are looking for:>> Character, honesty and integrity>> Someone fun to work with>> Self-starter that likes to work hard for the reward>> Willingness to learn and get out of the box to be successful>> Motivated by money and willing to work for it>> Reliable transportation, working cell phone, laptop computer and camera >> Feel safe driving into lower priced neighborhoods>> Flexible schedule to get the job done when needed>> Organized, able to manage a calendar and be on time to appointments >> Good people skills, friendly>> There's probably more, but we can flush that out in an interview If you're interested in learning more, please send:1.

What I'm expecting to get from this forum is more skill and confidence in talking to motivated sellers over the phone as an investor.Michelle EllisTruBlue PropertiesKeller Williams Realty

Having an attorney who is skilled with real estate investing is highly important for the success of your career.

I know a student relationship isn't asked below, but it probably should be.Now, I've been on bus tours but with national organizations of government housing officials, pretty dry, but it is good to see and even interact with a neighbor if there is time and you can get away from the tour guide.

This is based on the relationships I was able to form, sometimes even via email, on the basis that I have to raise funds and I will come back to you post funding for the follow on business.Like Bryan H says, it takes (art) or soft skills at this stage... a belief in you and the project...It has been a great learning experience... hope that helps...

Typing this on my right before bed did not help my writing skills ;)

There is another way, look at comparable properties and deduct the improvements, this will be beyond your skill set unless you understand the process, not an easy estimate to make.

I also work on educating myself more and more on my market, sharpening my negotiating skills, and building relationships.