Mike S,The features you are listing can be used in general and with some caveats.

Definately take advantage of listening to the podcasts, and using the keywords feature!

They are not meant for writing articles as that is the function of the blog feature on here.Let's all keep it civil or the topic will be just removed all together.

Come by the next SF meetup featuring Josh and Brandon next Friday if you can.http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521/topics/124707-bp-meetup---fri-4-25-in-sf-w-josh-dorkin-and-brandon-turner

No automated maodel can take into acount enough factors to give a relliable vaulation.If it has historical sales prices and enough information to see condition and features then sure, use it.

You need to learn how to use the saved search features and you can set up multiple searches for keywords like "handyman special" fixer upper" "motivated seller" "needs TLC" etc and you can also search based on DOM, REOs, Price by location, expired or withdrawn listings.

Zillow actually took this feature down a year ago or so because they got sued for having comps that were so far off.

@Brandon Turner yes, I just set up my keyword alert and really like this feature!!

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