Since Lenders do not own the property and simply operate within parameters dictated by the investor holding the paper, you can sometimes make a connection with the negotiator on a more personal level by taking a few moments to thank the them for their assistance .

Having that skill though would help you to be a better judge of the work that needs done on a building.

I am 31 years old, and I was lucky enough to have a responsible upbringing, but even with that I am still learning - I think that they need to instill life skills classes in every high school in Amercia

Justin,All realtors are licended by a state agency so you can complain at the state level such as in TN, we have the Tennessee Association of Realtors.

Great topic.In my experience I have seen some very inexperienced investors stumble through a deal (to their credit) in spite of their negotiating skills.Their biggest weapon was coming at the discussions from the place of how they could solve the sellers problem(s).Of course... those that developed more advanced negotiating skills not only increase their profits, they also got more deals to the closing table.One of my all time favorite negotiating books, one that I require all of my clients to read, is The Secrets of Power Negotiating by Roger Dawson.

I can offer my skills in exchange for experience in my market.

@Ryan SlicerWhile real estate investment is often passive by default, certain activities do rise to the level of self-employment.

And I am an electrician with many other home improvement skills i can create alot of equity with my own two hands, i figured after doing that to the single family home i could use a credit line on the house.

@Robert Naucke Jr It depends on your comfort level.

Great point on setting objectIve service level expectations.