How about the fact that I've had new investors offer me money to help them evaluate a potential deal.

I want to turn 60 and have at least a handful of free and clear properties to fund our retirement.I know most of us get caught up in the "today" activity of finding, evaluating, and analyzing deals, but take a moment and ask yourself, "Where do I want to be in 20, 30 or 40 years?".

I think my loan agreement says they can evaluate and adjust the escrow portion of my payment once a year, but they must provide a detailed statement showing why the change is necessary.However, the one thing that WILL pi$$ me off is if they try to pull what Bryan said and pay for one of their loser flunky insurance policies because they lost my carrier's info.

Troy, thanks for sharing--great stuff here.For iPhone I use LoopNet which has the most commercial listings.I also use Property Evaluator Pro which lets you enter financial info and produces and emails nice reports and pro formas.

You should also expect your PM to provide reliable market rents and color on the immediate area, when you're evaluating a purchase.Also to set rent for your existing units at the optimal level (normally slightly under market to minimize vacancy time and turnover).

The way I see it, the first step is evaluation.

You can also evaluate them at that time, even though you're stuck with them through the duration of their leases.

Originally posted by Steve Babiak:When the water isn't turned on in REO, you can use air pressure to see if pipes hold - no need of having to re-winterize that way.That sounds like a great tip, but that doesn't help with evaluating the drain-waste-vent system, correct?

Unless the duplex is in good condition you will have to consider repairs in your evaluation of profit.

We work pretty hard to ensure that does not happen.I do believe that one has to look at overall portfolio return, including "down" times, when evaluating a fix-and-flip strategy.