All forums have to deal with spammers, obviously - but IMO forums that are business related, such as this one, have to have stricter policies to maintain user trust.

I think if you do your homework and most importantly, can get connected with people you trust, there is definitely the opportunity for success.

And secondly, will quit claiming from a personal loan to a living trust help protect the assets rather than having to establish an LLC?

It is extremly important that people read these rules prior to the purchase of a property governed by such rules.

I came here because I am extremely interested in Real Estate and the kind of money that can be made here.

.$1050 per month income X 12 months = $12,600 annual Gross Rental IncomeGRM=$40,000/$12,600=3.2If $52,000 is the contract priceGRM=$52,000/$12,600=4.1 (sorry not 4.2)GRM is based on your local market and is determined by comps (comparable sales in the same area).Again a 4.1 GRM is extremely strong and will most likely be lower than your area's comps.

I've only been asked about earnest money from a non-represented seller maybe twice.Now noobdog, in reference to "land contracts", I'm guessing you're referring to a contract for deed, which in Texas is not illegal but new legislation has opened one up to extreme liability for selling a property through any type of executory contract, where the buyer doesn't receive title immediately.

. .it amazes me how people expect to gain people's trust when the are so blatently sneaky.

Short sales are extremely hard.

The other thing that most people don't realize is that if you have to do a rehab it can be extremely inexpensive to do if you do the work yourself.