Generally it comes from a data service company that specializes in supplying this type of information.

Average appreciation for the past three years has been around 7-8% for areas with nothing special happening, I've seen about 15% year on year for the 3 years I've owned this place.

My name is Ahmad and I'm a commercial mortgage broker in Florida specializing in multi family, construction, land, and hard money loans.

I currently work directly with a buyer that specializes in purchasing REOs in bulk, NPNs (non-performing notes), and UPB (unpaid principle balance).

1) Hire a property manager (or be prepared to work very hard)2) Make sure maintenance costs are factored into your analysis/plan for acquiring each property

If they won't do free comps....check with a few realtors that specialize in your type of property.

I have a house and I'm thinking of taking advantage of this great market opportunity to buy a newer house for myself, then rent out my existing house.Now, I'm worried about the possibility that I won't be able to rent my current house in the future as my house is in a bad neighborhood.How would you proceed and/or how would you prepare for months when you can't rent out a property?

You should prepare yourself to receive both nasty letters and phone calls.

You must be emotionally prepared to walk at any time, if you are truly looking for the best deal.What is the reason for using a realtor?

I'd be leery of doing such a tight deal, specially in this market.