We began approaching real estate as a team sport and have identified key partnerships and relationships to grow our business.

Real estate is a key part of my portfolio.

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

Here are some tricks I have learned1) Look for distressed properties (foreclosure/short sales)2) Look for ugly properties 3) Properties that require a long wait time to get into see the property4) Poor Landscaping5) Off times of year (winter, etc)6) Be Patient and Deal with Poor Realtors, etcSo there are lots of ways to be successful off the mls.

Low key, low pressure but be a resource for them.  

Of course a year from now the landscape could be entirely different so it is key to keep your powder dry and options open till then.There are a couple of twists to a 1031 that may allow you to still benefit from one and yet re-position your money to your benefit as well.1. 1031 into an alternative real estate investment.  

We don't have the credit and we don't have a large sum of money available either so I think we're just stuck untill we get one of those key items.

After spending over 18 years in the healthcare industry, primarily in Nutrition & Wellness, Quality & Risk Management, Patient Safety and Performance Improvement I've decided to do something a little different.

Here is what we are doing...Re key home to make new tenant keysClean up and shape the landscaping and trim tree in rear of homeRepair exterior wood - Repaint all exterior siding and trim.Repair gate / fence leading into backyardReplace all kitchen cabinets with new cabinets - Paint white, then antiqueNew st steel stove, dishwasher, and vent a hoodNew countertops (kitchen)New wood laminate flooring in 2 living areas and hallway - 1st floorNew tile floor in downstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in downstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surroundNew brushed nickel light fixtures and fans throughout the homeNew carpet and pad on stairs and upstairs hall and bedroomsNew tile floor in upstairs bathroomNew vanity and sink in upstairs bathroomTile walls around tub to replace old tub surround upstairs bathReplace old / damaged sheetrock where needed (mostly downstairs)Repaint all ceilings throughout homeRepaint all doors and trim throughout the homeRemove all wallpaper and paint all walls standard neutral colorsReplace all interior and exterior doorknobs and looks to new brushed nickel look to match lights and fansReplace all cabinet pulls and knobs with brushed nickel to match door knobs and lights/fansLicenced plumber to repair and service all plumbing fixtures / pipes to ensure no leaksLicensed HVAC technician coming to service and clean the heat and air to ensure it is working property."