I do deals all over the country but live in the East SF Bay.

There is so much discussion of foreclosures that writers, investors and Realtors are missing the fact that many builders in almost every area of the country have steeply discounting homes.

In fact, I think that there are literally thousands of successful investors accross this country just like Richard who will help new investors for free.

I know it'll never happen, but I'm so damned sick and tired of supporting every irresponsible jerk in this country who is unwilling to support and take responsibility for themselves, and getting screwed by every greedy banker/doctor/lawyer...

And therein lies the difference between the 'professional politician' and someone who wishes to simply serve his or her community and make a positive difference.Want to see this country take a 180-degree turn for the better?

We're always blaming people for our misfortune in this country . . . it is time for people to take responsibility for themselves.

If it is a new buyer I will collect an EMD that is non-refundable if they back out - but refundable if the deal goes sideways because of me they get it back.I actually do not use any special addendum's I just have the dates match up with the offer I have with the bank.I never start to market a property until I have "a deal" with the bank - not just an offer in but an accpeted offer.If this is a normal bank REO it normally takes 2-4 weeks to close depending on any city inspections that are required in some parts of the country to their title company geting title done.In those 2-4 weeks that is when I market the property - I know at that point the deal will close - in 10 years I have never had a bank not close - actually I take that back it did happen once - but the buyer was cool and just got in line for the next home.Becasue I have an accepted offer I really just use a standard purhcase agreement.

I think Mellon is one of the oldest banks in the country.

I was recently approached by a friend whose company does small business and real-estate investments for their Middle Eastern investors.

It's now somewhat more diversified with the largest medical center in the country, several universities, a huge variety of retail outlets and restaurants, the dwindling space center, tons of construction, etc.Still, folks are getting nervous as oil prices plummet and companies begin the inevitable rounds of layoffs (yes, it's already happening).