Reviews (7)

I Used Mr. John Tirone's HP-12C Real Estate Book to
I enjoyed this real estate appraisal book. However like just about every real estate appraisal book I have seen, the Williams and Ventolo book could use better supplementation on the HP financial calculators so I used a book recommended by one of my classmates, "Professional Real Estate Problem Solving Using the HP12C" financial calculator. This book is written by a Mr. John Tirone, a real estate instructor and attorney from Michigan. I heard that Mr. Tirone supports his books but I was skeptical until we called him with questions on using the hp12C in some of the real estate appraisal problems experienced in our class that used the Williams book.
If your appraisal course requires the William and Ventolo book, try to get a used copy from amazon since theer are lots of these books in the system. If you want to have extra help with the hp calculator, consider the Tirone book on the HP12C. amazon carries the book; this book is worth the money and if you need help Mr. Tirone will help you. His book is a win-win for the student of appraisal or real estate in general.

Excellent text, lousy index
This book was required reading for two different course-series I completed last year: real estate appraisal, and real estate broker. Of all the books I had to read (10 total) this was by far the best. Very well written, and it covered the subject matter very well (I wish I could say the same for the broker courses I took -- will have to re-take the state exam a second time because of that...).

One major flaw in the book though: the index is pathetic. I'm currently preparing for the state exam, and when looking to review particular words/phrases/concepts, the index is nearly useless. Was the index computer-generated by some software with a lousy algorithm?

Anyway, it's a great book for the student. But I worry that the lousy index will greatly reduce its usefulness as a reference text when I start work.

Good Start
I am a REALTOR, not an appraiser. I bought this book to give me a better understanding of how appraisers arrive at their conclusions.. to better price property or determine if a listing
I am going after will be over priced and not worth my time. As
with all books I learned things I did not know. Worth my money.

Fundamentals ofReal Estate Appraisal
I felt that this was an excellent book for the beginning student of Appraisal. It covered every area of this profession. It gave good examples and exercises and comprehensive examinations on the chapter covered. If you are serious about the Appraisal Profession, this book should be on your shelf.

Short on helpful advice
If you're looking to learn how to appraise a home than this isn't the best book to get. As a beginner it was hard to get a grasp of appraising. ... Read more

Book Description

This leading textbook for the college introductory real estate principles course is a comprehensive, well written text known for its easy to understand and practical approach to the principles of real estate.Highlights include:
* Instructor Resources available online at www.dearbornRE.com, including a PowerPoint presentation.
* "Real Estate Today" advisory boxes analyze specific legal cases and controversial issues in the industry.
* A recurring case study is woven thoughout the book,highlighting the decision process in a typical real estate transaction.
* "Close Ups", "Legal Highlights" and "Case Studies" appear thoughout to provide "real world" applications of the concepts.
* Contains a student study guide CD ROM with interactive case studies. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Book lacks modern finance perspectives
This book is good for residential licensees perhaps but otherwise is out of date.

Real Estate Principles
The authors introduce the principles of real estate at an elementary level using an impressive organizational style. Covers all fundamental aspects of real estate with no bias applications (ex. State Laws, Personal Experience). Perfect for the beginner of real estate. ... Read more

Book Description

Lavishly illustrated, this book features 26 innovative planned communities. Following an introduction by Alexander Garvin that describes how planned communities have evolved, you get an inside look at the concept, the plan elements, the design, and how the master plan reflects the vision for traditional and new urbanist communities, both established and just off the drawing board.

More than 200 extra-large, high-quality photographs and illustrations.
Showcases outstanding housing types, architectural themes, site plans, and other components.
Includes project data on residential, commercial, and open-space uses. ... Read more

Book Description

You'll need to wear many hats in the business of property management: advertiser/promoter (in seeking tenants), host (in showing your property), handyman (in keeping up with and arranging repairs), bookkeeper (in maintaining records), and even counselor (in dealing with tenants and their problems). But Property Management For Dummies will help you maintain your sense of humor – and your sanity – as you deal with these challenges and more.

You may become an unintentional property owner – someone who inherited a house from a relative and didn't want it to sit idle, or someone who transferred to a job in another city and decided to rent your home rather than sell it – or you may have entered the world of property ownership intentionally. Either way, real estate offers one of the best opportunities to develop a steady stream of residual income.

Property Management For Dummies is organized by specific topic areas, so you can easily and quickly scan a topic that interests you, or you can troubleshoot the source of your latest major headache. You'll discover how to

• Evaluate your skills and personality to see whether you have what it takes to be a landlord
• Keep your units occupied with paying tenants who don't destroy your property
• Move in your new tenants and move them out – and everything in between
• Assemble the right team of professionals to help you, from employees to contractors
• Insure your property and understand the taxes that go with it
• Look for additional sources of income beyond rent, including the opportunities and pitfalls of lease options

While many of life's lessons can be uncovered by trial and error, property management shouldn't be one of them – the mistakes are too costly and the legal ramifications too severe. In this book, you'll find proven strategies to make rental property ownership and management not only profitable but pleasant as well. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

You are not a "Dummy" if you read this book.
I met the author at a meeting of the Institute of Real Estate Management in Chicago several years ago. I hold the same "Certified Property Manager (CPM)" designation. So, I did a double take recently when I saw this book on the shelf of a book store. And I did a triple take when I saw that Robert had written it! Robert Griswold is an educator, and it shows in the book. I've been in property management for over 20 years and I bought the book and took it home for several evenings of enjoyable reading. (By the way, my wife thinks I'm nuts! I can't leave my work at the office.) Robert Griswold writes at the easiest common denominator. The book is entertaining and answers the wide variety of questions. Most property managers are "generalists", meaning you have to know a lot of things about a lot of topics: collecting rents, fixing up space, evicting tenants, dealing with difficult people, roof specialist, bookkeeper/accountant, landscape specialist, plumbing specialist, HVAC specialist, etc., etc. One thing that any property manager will know, it is a very detailed career. If you are a person with an interest in property management, a novice or a long-time veteran, this is a must-read book.

A Must Have Reference On Propery Management
Robert Griswold's Property Management For Dummies is a wonderfully practical digest on property management covering every applicable subject both for those considering becoming a landlord and for long time landlords. Easy to read, and easy to jump right to the subject on which one needs the most help, Mr. Griswold's years of experience and wisdom are made accessable to the reader. Having been a property manager for over three years now, I was surprised by how much I learned from this book. For anyone considering property management or being a landlord, this book lets one know in advance all the factors to weigh before making that leap. I'll state it again -- you must have this book if you are in any way going to be involved in property management.

The best information on property management is in this book!
Whether you live on the east coast or the west coast, looking to own a condo or a multi unit investment, this book will help answer a majority of the most puzzling questions a landlord might have in managing a property. It gives simplified step by step instructions on each process throughout the book....fun to read and very clearly written.

If you are about to enter the world of being a landlord, this book will tell you the rules. Every person needs this book for his or her financial self-defense and peace of mind. Read this book and preclude the problem before it happens. ... Read more

Book Description

EVERYBODY WINS

Inside stories and strategies behind the remarkable growth of RE/MAX, and how to use them for competitive success in virtually any industry

"This is a book about dreaming with your eyes wide open, a book about success and winning and leading, and most of all, it is a book that contains important lessons for all organizations that want to become great."
—Warren Bennis, author of On Becoming a Leader and Distinguished Professor of Business, USC

"I love the word 'Wow.' And though I've by now 'seen it all,' or most of it anyway, I found myself saying 'Wow' time and time again as I highlighted my way through Everybody Wins. The RE/MAX saga—the story of a huge industry turned upside-down and inside-out by an outrageously bold dream, incredible tenacity, and uncommon business sense—yields inspiring and practical lessons for all of us. As I said, 'Wow.' "
—Tom Peters, author of In Search of Excellence

"Everybody Wins is a must-read for any executive serious about sustainable growth and innovation. A powerful resource guide to the next generation of leaders focused on building great companies!"
—James D. White, Senior Vice President Business Development, North America, The Gillette Company

"When the business dream is applied with leadership, passion, a clear brand, and committed people, incredibly great sustained performance and growth occur. The RE/MAX story is one of those inspiring fairy tales where a dream and passion of the founder have led to an incredible success and one where there is a unique outcome—everybody does win!"
—Steve Steinour, Chairman Mid-Atlantic Regional Banking, Citizens Bank

"Everybody Wins offers valuable advice on how to build a culture that supports innovation, growth, and constant learning. The chapter on 'Pace Line Leadership' is essential reading for leaders who want to turn vision into action."
—John Hammergren, Chairman and CEO, McKesson Corporation ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Wow! Lots of forms and info...
This is a book for seasoned investors, brokers, and syndicators. It contains several hundred forms and checklists that will make sure you never forget an important element of the buying and selling process. However, it is not a "stand alone" book on real estate investing, but a book designed to accompany other texts on the subject. ... Read more

Book Description

Develop an insider's knowledge of real estate financing (traditional and creative) while remaining legal and ethical.

A brief but thorough overview of the mortgage loan market, from the concept of inflation to the different categories of lenders and loans.This book builds a solid framework for understanding how to make money in real estate by choosing the right financing.

Knowing the workings of the mortgage loan market as well as all the options available for financing are the keys to success for real estate investors and homebuyers.Financing Secrets of a Millionaire Real Estate Investor offers a comprehensive overview of the basics, followed by clear, concise explanations of the many financing options investors should consider when looking to maximize profits.Demystifying such intriguing concepts as lease/options, sale/leasebacks, double closings, and more, this practical guide gives buyers the knowledge they need to make the best possible purchasing decisions. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

There are so many ways to make money in real estate!
There are so many ways to make money in real estate! Since my first flipper property, which I made $8000.00 after reading "Flipping Properties" I have pocketed 7 figures and acquired 7 units - with no prior real estate experience! Bill Bronchick illustrates and delivers, step-by-step techniques, in an user friendly manner! "Financing Secrets" will forever change the way you buy and sell real estate.

Bronchick makes a complex subject easy to understand
Well, Bill Bronchick has done it again. Following his excellent resource Flipping Properties, he's taken the complex subject of creative real estate financing and broken it down into it's component parts and explained each one clearly and concisely in simple language anyone can understand. In the section What to Expect from this Book he says, "This book will show you how to finance properties with as little cash as possible, while maintaining minimum risk and maximum profit." And he does.

Covering such subjects as loans, mortgages, foreclosure, and working with lenders, he gives you the background you need for the later subjects of creative financing, hard and private money, getting involved in partnerships and equity sharing and the more creative subjects of lease options and owner financing.

While the book is geared primarily toward real estate investors, it is an excellent guide for any person considering buying a new home or considering doing some kind of creative financing with an investor or other buyer on a house they already own.
After reading it cover to cover (an easy task) every real estate investor should then add it to their library as a useful reference for many financing situations that may come up in this business.

Great stuff
I recommend this book. If you are just getting started or have a lot of experience... this book will help you. Full of great ideas and solid information to help the creative real estate investor.

Byron Walker
Full Time Investor

Two thumbs way up!
This book had so many good finaning ideas, I read it three times! Whether you are buying as an investor or a homeowner, this book will show you real-life formulas for buying with little or no money. This is the first book that explains real estate financing in a way for the lay person to understand. The author, an attorney, has a real knack for making "legal jargon" understandable.

I would recommend this book to ANYONE who is either buying a home or investment property. ... Read more

Book Description

Strategies for creating real estate wealth by star ting small--and always making the right moves

Nationally known real estate expert John Schaub learned his craft in the best way possible--on the job, and through every kind of market. Over three decades, he learned to bank consistent profits as he built an impressive real estate mini-empire. Building Wealth One House at a Time reveals how virtually anyone can accumulate one million dollars worth of houses debtfree and earn a steady cash flow for life.

Unique in that it focuses on buying houses in good-quality neighborhoods, Schaub's nine-step program includes:

• Renting to long-term tenants, with financial incentives to pay on time
• Avoiding the temptation of bigger deals, which invariably include bigger problems
• A 10-year plan to pay off debt and own houses free and clear

Reviews (7)

A practical guide by real estate expert John Schaub
The key to investing wisely in real estate is buying good houses in good neighborhoods - but there's more to it than that: buy at wholesale prices, properly fund an investment, and learn how to gain tenants who will increase a property's investment value in Building Wealth One House At A Time, a practical guide by real estate expert John Schaub, an investing expert whose program is taught through seminars and home-study courses. Plenty of similar-sounding investment guides promise wealth; this is one of the few to provide the step-by-step program on just how.

Its ok
I have high expectations for everything, and this book was just "OK".This is the first Real Estate book I bought and found that about 50% of the material I already knew.This is a good first book though for anyone who is wanting to start learning up on Real Estate Investment.

Definitely a keeper
I like this book.The author offers advice and strategies that I believe I can make work for me in the real world.There was nothing that I read in the book that I would feel strange or wrong about doing.In fact, I'm looking into making an offer using his methods.

The only conflict for me was that John recommends investing in your own area.He doesn't seem fond of investing out of town.I live in Southern California, and unless you are make large cash down payments, it's nearly impossible to be cash flow positive for a very long time.I'm going to adapt the information in the book and continue to invest out of town.

I'm definitely adding this to my investment book library.It's a keeper.

Covers the basic rules.
John Schaub has been a house investor, author, and speaker for over thirty years. He presents a senario of buying a house, renting it out for enough to cover its cost and maintenance, paying it off over a ten year or so period, building an investment portfolio of properties that will then provide for a good retirement income.

As with a lot of things, the devil is in the details. And most of the book covers things like finding the right house, negeotiating the price, a quick look at accounting, borrowing and everything else connected with the real estate marketplace.

The book is dead on. There are an awful lot of people who have made a lot of money this way. There are two or three he doesn't mention. One is buying houses at auction when they have been foreclosed, something you should investigate in your community, particularily if you live in a one commodity area that is subject to boom and bust. Another point is that most of the people I know who have build themselves this kind of business do a lot of their own maintenance. You can pay for things like cleaning and painting, but it's expensive.

Investing in rental houses is a business. Like any business it's subject to working hard, making the right decisions, and having just a bit of luck. If the earthquake finds your house ....

Good Advice
This is a fascinating book, with plenty of good advice for investing in rental properties and learning to live off the income produced by your investments. Schaub talks about finding deals, negotiating for better terms, using agents, managing your properties, and protecting your key assets. The paragraphs below briefly discuss three of his key points.

Schaub's chapter on learning how to work yourself out of your day job hit home with me. Isn't this a goal we all share? Schaub's plan is easy to understand, but not necessarily easy to follow. In my action plans, I first wanted to be able to pay my electric bill with income that had spun off my investments. After reaching that goal, I wanted to pay my phone bill, car insurance, etc. I kept working to build investment income sufficient to pay my bills. Eventually, I reached a point where my investment income has almost equaled my work income. I'm using the bulk of my work income to make investments. Schaub suggests using your investment income to replace your need to work. I suggest you keep working, and use you work income to make bigger investments.

Schaub's entire thesis rests on the concept of buying quality properties that you manage and control, and striving to pay them off within a ten-year period. When you approach retirement, theoretically you will have the income of these properties flowing into your bank account. This is a great idea, and certainly doable; however, maintenance, tax, and insurance expenses will never go away. So don't forget that maintenance alone may eat up to 40% of your gross income. Insurance and taxes will eat another 10-20%.

Schaub talks about owning property out of town, and this is important info for all investors. Your main concern is control. I learned my lesson the hard way here. I owned a home free and clear in a different state. However, my property manager seen to it that every month I had a significant maintenance costs, such as $325 for removal of used stove. $459 for removal of tree roots from pipes under house. Month after month I put up with these outrageous costs, that I would have handled for pennies if the home was within a hour's drive of my home.

Schaub suggests you Focus on making small deals that you can understand and control. For example, a small investor can earn sufficient returns from several single-family homes in good neighborhoods, without having to negotiate for malls and apartment complexes, or get over your head in partnerships and complex land development deals.
... Read more

Book Description

Spend like a miser, profit like a mogul

Who says you have to spend money to make money?Savvy real estate investors follow the examples of Donald Trump and Walt Disney, turning substantial profits on properties without incurring the debt, risk, and maintenance costs of ownership—and now, so can you!

In How to Make Money with Real Estate Options, real estate expert Thomas Lucier introduces you to the low-risk, high-yield investment vehicle that can earn big bucks even for small investors. Lucier explains what real estate options are, how they work, and why they are the tools of choice for thousands of successful investors. Step by step, he shows you how to:

• Locate potential option properties using the Internet, want ads, and "bird-dogs"
• Contact and negotiate with property owners
• Perform due diligence and avoid options pitfalls
• Prepare an option agreement that protects you
• Insure real estate options with title insurance
• Package and sell optioned properties for optimum profits

Packed with no-nonsense advice on how to identify the most profitable properties and manage every step of the option process, How to Make Money with Real Estate Options is a practical guide to one of the secret weapons of savvy investors. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Knowledge Abound
This book is very detailed and informative on the Options process.I have read many books on the subject and this is one of the best out there.It was very thought productive and can help take your real estate investing career to the next level.

One of the best books prepared on options
Hands down a very informative book on real estate options and creative ways to make heavy dollars with little to zero risk!

Two Thumbs Way Up!!!
Two Thumbs Up!!!A must read!!! The most comprehensive, inclusive, and insightful read that is long overdue!If you want the real-world-scoop on how to do it and do it right, this no hassle guide goes to the point with invaluable tips and personal experiences to keep you savvy and up-to-date with all the right stuff, i.e., contact information, referral sources at your finger-tips. To have someone like Mr. Lucier share all his technology secrets and expertise is a rarity!If you have any questions, the author is available and as close to you as your cell-phone.Thanks Mr. Lucier for being my mentor and helping me become financially independent and independently prosperous!!

R.R.Ford. California

Step by Step Learning & to the Point with REAL Information
The author gives you excellent detailed information along with lots of resource links, not to mention his email & phone info.He actually does answer email questions quick. His book is an excellent value because it's all about "how to" without any fluff, missing details, long winded stories or get rich quick schemes.I've read many real estate books & this is probably one if not the best & most informative on a new strategy that the average person can use.

This was an exciting read
I read this book in one night. I was so excited.It is concise and to the point.This is a powerpacked resource good for any level of investor.This will become a classic

mike ... Read more

Book Description

Real estate experts Peter Conti and David Finkel's new book Making Big Money Investing in Foreclosures without Cash or Credit is a comprehensive money making guide that helps readers discover the road to financial freedom.

Making Big Money Investing in Foreclosures without Cash or Credit is an easy to follow manual designed to help real estate investors launch a successful career in the foreclosure investing business. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

THE BEST.....
I am not to good at this and this is my first time but this book was soooo GREAT ...About 2 years ago I bought a course on TV went though it and at the end of it just could not understand it,So I gave up..Last July I was in a bookstore and came across Making Big Money In Real Estate from these two gentlemen there 2nd book and I was able to understand the concept,.Picked up this book when it came out and let me tell you those guys know how to get there point across and say it so anyone can understand it,I knew nothing about Foreclosures or what was involved or what a short sale was.
I am almost done reading this book and I now have there 1st book
How to Create Multiple Streams of Income,Just waiting to be read next.Keep up the good work guy's and Thank you..

So easy & so simple, it's a must to start today!
This book is written for everyone, easy to read and understand with all the information needed for anyone to get started. Peter Conti and David Finkel teach not only how to build wealth buying foreclosures but more importantly how to do it with integrity. Solving problems for those that have financial issues, while making sure not to ever "take advantage" of them is a point made clear throughout all of Peter and David's books. Making Big Money Buying Foreclosures..... is more than a book about Real Estate investing, as you read each page you get a real feel for the authors, the genuine spirit of fair play and sincerity both Peter & David posess reach out from each page letting you know this is not just about building wealth; but helping people.
I had the opportunity to spend this last weekend in Devner, CO with the Mentor Financial Group (owned by Peter Conti & David Finkel) and I am sold on the fact these two gentleman walk their talk. Buying foreclosures is a time spent working with sellers in an emotional state; this book teaches you as an investor how to work with these sellers in a way that is not demeaning but even uplifting. If you are an investor, big or small or maybe someone simply considering the purchase of a few properties to hang onto for future income or a more quality retirement, buy this book. Making Big Money Investing In Foreclosures......was not written and published to be put on your shelf, I have read dozens of books regarding Real Estate investment and for me, it's always been about the people I am working with and the wealth & freedom building, in that order. Even if you know nothing about Real Estate investing or are a licensed Real Estate Agent - (...) - READ IT - FOLLOW WHAT IT SAYS, EXACTLY HOW IT SAYS TO DO IT.......IT'S THAT SIMPLE! It has something for everyone and you will be glad you did.

Advert for their seminars/courses
This book is heavy on excitment and 'systems' but very light on details. Not something to buy if you want to actually go out and DO something now. This book is mostly intended to get you involved in their very expensive mentoring, coaching, or course programs.

Absolute Newbie
This category of books (Investing in Real Estate) has the formula down cold. General topics are covered as well as the gist of possible scenarios, but NO details are given regarding the process. As the saying, goes the "devil's in the details" - in this case so is the money and you won't make ANY if this is the only book you read. If you don't have ANY book on foreclosures this would be an OK place to start, but my suggestion is to keep looking or find a good foreclosure attorney (no I'm NOT an attorney) willing to tutor you in the ins and outs of the process and explain the pros and cons for the homeowner and mortgage company and where an investor/buyer may fit in.

Decent information and approaches
This book provides a relatively poor overview of the foreclosure process (understandable since it changes somewhat by locality) and spends way too much time on salesy sounding scripts to use when talking to people. However, there are enough useful tidbits to make the book worth reading. ... Read more

Book Description

The bestselling author of Philistines at the Hedgerow probes the secretive world of Manhattan luxury apartments, where real estate costs the most and matters even more.

Steven Gaines once again trains his sharp eye on rich people behaving badly. This time, the arena is Manhattan luxury real estate and the outlandish displays of ego, outrageous behavior, blood feuds, status hunger, and conspicuous consumption that dominate that world.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT reveals the apartment swapping adventures of many celebrities, from Jerry Seinfeld to Barbra Streisand, from Tommy Hilfiger to Gloria Vanderbilt--with typical Gaines verve and style. But Gaines digs much deeper to tell us the fascinating story of how boxes stacked on boxes came to be seen as the ultimate in status for the rich. He introduces us to a fascinating, diverse cast of carriage-trade brokers, whose most important task is to get their anxious clients past the dreaded co-op board. And, he gives us finely etched portraits of a few of the discreet, elderly society ladies who are the real arbiters of who gets into the so-called "Good Buildings." ... Read more

Book Description

The latest volume in ULI's highly respected Development Handbook Series, this handsomely illustrated reference takes you step by step through the development of complex mixed-use projects. You will learn about the key points that can make or break a project, and get in-depth information on feasibility, financing, planning and design, regulatory issues, marketing, and management. Case studies describe how seasoned professionals developed projects with a wide range of densities--from suburban town centers to high-rise mixed-use towers. ... Read more

Book Description

Commercial Real Estate Analysis and Investments presents the essential concepts, principles, and tools for the analysis of commercial real estate (income producing) from an investment perspective. The book integrates relevant aspects of urban and financial economics to provide learners with a fundamental analytical understanding of real estate investments. In addition, it bridges the gap between mainstream finance and the cutting edge of professional real estate practice, in order to address the implications of their key difference. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Great text - solid presentation - just undertand its focus
I think this is a wonderful text. However, let me state up front this is NOT a general book about real estate as an investment vehicle in the broad sense. It is a text that provides the knowledge and techniques to ANALYZE commercial real estate as a financial investment. So, yes, the book is heavy on financial analysis and the many way markets and techniques that exist for investing in commercial real estate.

You won't learn a thing about how to pick or manage properties. Those are topics for other books and courses. This great book does have a rather specific focus, but it needs that because the topic it does cover is so large and there is a great deal to learn.

I find the book to be clearly written with the bare minimum of mathematics to make the content extremely valuable. Because the authors have a practical focus the reader is not overwhelmed or bogged down in abstruse topics or arcane formulae.

The book has thirty chapters grouped into eight parts. The eight parts are 1) Into to real estate economics, 2) Urban economics and real estate analysis, 3) Basic financial economic concepts and tools, 4) Real estate valuation and investment analysis at the microlevel, 5) Completing the basic investment analysis picture, 6) Mortgages from an investment perspective, 7) Macrolevel real estate investment, 8) Real estate development and other selected topics.

From this list of topics you can understand the nature of this book. If these are issues you are interested in I think you will find this book really delivers the goods and I am glad to have on my shelf of valued business texts.

The Best Real Estate Text I've Ever Read
This book is not for the faint-hearted or for readers who want to skim a few paragraphs and then think they'll get rich quick.

If you read this book, chapter by chapter, and do the exercises at the end of each one, you'll probably know more about Real Estate Finance than many people in Real Estate boardrooms. This will take a few weeks as a minimum, but it will have immense value.

The writers Geltner and Miller really choose to go "in-depth" with each topic, almost to the point of annoyance when you're reading it, but afterwards you realize why, and importantly, realize what you've learned by doing it.

This book is immensely valuable, and requires some work to achieve that value. It's value will be with you permanently however, because you will have absorbed the true principals of what's going on it real estate and the associated financial markets, and not just have memorized some glib cookbook answers which many people may instead be hoping for.

This is a book for thinkers and practicioners who want carry lasting value with them.

Very good text
This is a very good book. It covers urban economics and market analysis very well. The chapter on real estate and portfolio theory is more than worth the readers time. Text also covers commercial mortgages very well. This is not a get rich quick book but if you want to learn about commercial real estate, then this book is what you are looking for.

Great!
This is an excellent book for developing an analytical view on commercial real estate markets. It is not suited as a "commercial real estate analysis" step-by-step guideline for the average real estate professional, but it is great as a textbook in a university master course. Complex concepts and principles are described in an easy-to-understand way. The book has a broad scope, with chapters written from a finance, investments or urban economics perspective. One of the best books for an academic real estate course.

Worthless!
My rating is based on two criteria: (1) The authors can't write readable prose. They do not even know how to constuct a coherent paragraph, let alone build a coherent full-bodied narrative. Mostly academic jargon. (2) The authors say that you can view commercial real estate from many perspectives, but they emphasize financial economics. Unfortunately, anyone who restricts their view to fin econ cannot make sensible decisions.This perspective renders the book useless. It's clear the authors have no practical knowledge of commercial real estate -- or if they do they're keeping it a secret. Written primarily to impress their buddies in university econ and finance departments. ... Read more

Book Description

Classic Insight into Building a Fabulous Career in Real Estate
Welcome to the world of real estate sales! Now, you control your destiny. A career in real estate offers endless opportunities, the freedom of flexible hours, and the potential to earn fabulous amounts of money. But to reach your goals you need to be prepared. Before you dive in, you must learn everything you can and discover the edge that will take you to the top.
Inside, experienced and top-notch real estate professional Dirk Zeller presents the secrets to success that will allow you to excel from day one. Full of practical answers and step-by-step solutions to the field's most common obstacles and challenges, Your First Year in Real Estate will help you build a solid foundation for a lifetime of real estate success.
Be a real estate champion from day one by knowing how to:
·Select the right company and get off to the right start
·Develop valubable mentor and client relationships
·Master your sales skills
·Achieve the financial results you desire
·Set—and reach—important career goals
"Dirk Zeller's approach is brilliant! He gives the best basic marketing techniques to his students. I applaud this book." ... Read more

Reviews (38)

This will give you the lead you need !
I am a new real estate agent. Like most new agent I was VERY lost (i'm sher you know the feeling). I had no one telling me the "how to's", the "when to's", and most importantly the "why to's" of the business. Is that what I signed up for, i asked!? I was overwhelmed and nervous. I invested in books and tapes of the highest level in relation to real estate (they where very good) BUT they never gave me the BOTTOM LINE (starting for the moment you recieve |THE CERTIFICATE|to actualy thinking of making 100 000+/year)!The best investment I made was the book "YOUR FIRST YEAR IN REAL ESTATE". If you are new in the business and are looking for a mentor !? read the book. You dont know where to start !? Read the book. You want to build a solid foundation for your carreer !? Read the book. Dont be fooled by it's simingly "basic" cover, this is the book you want. Dirk Zeller's philosophy is fantastic. It is possible to work 4 days a week and still make alot of $ and have time for your family...

Answered just about all of my questions, and MORE
I bought this book and one other as I was doing research to enter a new career in Real Estate Sales (from something totally different). It started out with how to "interview" potential brokers, questions to ask, and things to look for. This book was exactly what I needed to help me get my foot in the door and ask the right questions.
Also, this book talks about making and maintaining relationships with all of the different constituencies in the business in a positive, upbeat, "you can do it" tone. Not to say that you don't get the real scoop on the drawbacks as well, but overall, the tone the book is written in gives you the added push if you are at all hesitant about the industry.
I'm sure I will go back to this book time and time again.
(As of 7/2002) Three months later, I have started my career in Real Estate, and know more than at my review's first writing that Mr. Zeller speaks nothing but the truth. His plan for organizing your day, and working with only clients that will bring you business and results are DEAD ON. Also see his website for more GREAT real estate commentary and suggestions...

Easy to understand and follow
I purchased this book just prior to taking my real estate test and beginning my new career. It has helped tremendously and everything I have tried that was recommended has worked! The information is well laid out and presented in a format that is easy to follow and understand. Now, after being in this business for 6 months I have re-read the book and have picked up even more. I have recommended this book to others just starting out in their career and recommend it to anyone interested in beginning a career in real estate.

As good as it gets.....
I recommend this book to anyone and everyone who is considering a career in Real Estate. Dirk Zeller is a down to earth, straight shooter and has a 100% grip on how to succeed or fail in Real Estate - starting from Day-1.

After reading the book I had a chance to personally meet Dirk. His attitude and demeanor reflect his success. His book helped me to make the choice to get into Real Estate, I am following his recommendations and am having great success - and I have been at it only 3-months. I HIGHLY recommend this book.

Your 1st Year in Real Estate
This is an excellent book for anyone thinking about real estate as a career. It really breaks down the basic ideas of what it takes to get started and succeed as a realtor. Choosing a company is one of the hardest decisions and Dirk leads you right thru it. I recommend this book to all new agents or agents who have been in the business for any amount of time. ... Read more

Amazon.com

For many of us, the single biggest financial transaction is buying a house. Even more significant than the hefty down payment we fork over is the 15- to 30-year mortgage that needs feeding every month. If you have this much at stake, a little knowledge can go a long way, which is where Eric Tyson and Ray Brown come in. In Mortgages for Dummies, Tyson and Brown (who also wroteHome Buying for Dummies andHouse Selling for Dummies) provide a comprehensive introduction for anyone who is contemplating a mortgage. The book tells you how to evaluate your creditworthiness, determine your borrowing power, and shop for a lender, as well as covering the various types of loans. The authors also devote a section to refinancing and discuss what you should consider when prepaying a loan. They include amortization and remaining-balance tables, and a useful glossary. Whether you're a first-time home buyer or are just looking to refinance, you'll find this a valuable, easy-to-use guide. --Harry C. Edwards ... Read more

Book Description

The world is about to run out of cheap oil and change dramatically. Within the next few years, global production will peak. Thereafter, even if industrial societies begin to switch to alternative energy sources, they will have less net energy each year to do all the work essential to the survival of complex societies. We are entering a new era, as different from the industrial era as the latter was from medieval times.

In The Party's Over, Richard Heinberg places this momentous transition in historical context, showing how industrialism arose from the harnessing of fossil fuels, how competition to control access to oil shaped the geopolitics of the 20th century, and how contention for dwindling energy resources in the 21st century will lead to resource wars in the Middle East, Central Asia, and South America. He describes the likely impacts of oil depletion, and all of the energy alternatives. Predicting chaos unless the U.S. -- the world's foremost oil consumer -- is willing to join with other countries to implement a global program of resource conservation and sharing, he also recommends a "managed collapse" that might make way for a slower-paced, low-energy, sustainable society in the future.

More readable than other accounts of this issue, with fuller discussion of the context, social implications, and recommendations for personal, community, national, and global action, Heinberg's book is a riveting wake-up call for humankind as the oil era winds down, and a critical tool for understanding and influencing current U.S. foreign policy.

Richard Heinberg, from Santa Rosa, California, has been writing about energy resources issues and the dynamics of cultural change for many years. A member of the core faculty at New College of California, he is an award-winning author of three previous books. His Museletter was nominated for its "Best Alternative Newsletter" award by Utne Reader in 1993.

Reviews (31)

Up The Creek Without A Paddle!
This volume begins with a discussion of what energy is and how it has been used to develop our industrial way of life. Brief histories of wood, coal, and oil use are also included. Much of this book centers around the amounts of oil, coal, and natural gas remaining to be harnessed in the future, with several experts giving their predictions for the peak production of the world production of oil, not far away by most accounts. The United States had it's oil production peak in 1970 (predicted in 1956 by M. King Hubbert) and has been in decline since, with a slight temporary increase in the 1980's due to Alaskan oil.

As Richard Heinberg emphasizes continually in this book, the decline in world oil production seems imminent, along with the ensuing decline in national industrial economies which rely on oil, the United States being by far the biggest example. Per capita energy use by Americans is five times the world average, Heinberg writes, and he makes it abundantly clear that this waste and extravagance cannot continue much longer, and no number of Iraqi type excursions will make a difference. Heinberg writes that this decline of energy availability and use can be achieved peacefully with individual countries cooperating with each other, or violently with nations squabbling over the remaining oil. However, one thing stands out very clearly now, back in the 1970's during the initial problems with energy shortages due to the Arab oil embargo, it should have been a wake-up call to our leaders to develop sustainable energy sources then, it was not done, our short-sighted leaders failed us. But as Heinberg says, corporate leaders are also at fault, with their massive self-interest at risk, they could make less money if the country shifted more to alternate energy sources, and their lobby is very strong on Capital Hill in Washinton, D.C.. If that alternate energy program was began on a massive scale in the 1970's we would probably be in much better shape now, in terms of our energy future, but as Heinberg states in this book, at this late stage our options are limited. The massive industrial military machine the United States has is given attention here also, as Heinberg writes, this massive allocation of resources can and should be directed to more pressing concerns, the citizens of the United States do not need a military budget that equals the rest of the world combined (we are'nt going to fight the Soviets, that is now clear).

This volume also covers alternate energy sources today, and what they can do to help us in the future, again, as Heinberg says, we have began with too little and too late to prevent a collapse of our industrial way of life. How large of a collapse will it be? No one is certain. Heinberg also touches on the subject of overpopulation and immigration. Did you know that approximately 90% of the population growth in the United States over the next 50 years will be due to immigration? This is an area that has been neglected, and as Heinberg says, it is politically sensitive and politicians rarely stick their necks out in areas such as this. Also, in terms of overpopulation, have we, due to the use of oil in creating a large world food supply, exceeded the carrying capacity of the planet? This is another area Heinberg writes much about.

Heinberg envisions, after the world oil supply peaks and begins it's inevitable decline, a slower paced, more idyllic lifestyle, and as he says, probably a more agreeable one, at that, to most people.

Chilling Examination Of Coming Crisis In World Oil Supply!
As someone who now has the time and energy to watch current world events with interest, I have puzzled over what seem to be possible ulterior motives for our aggressive intervention in Iraq. Yet, given its rich supply of so much marker (or high quality) crude oil, this well documented book by author and academic Richard Heinberg book gives one a new perspective as to why we seem to be taking the actions we are to consolidate the stranglehold the Western world needs to guarantee a continuing and uninterrupted flow of it in its various forms. The author makes a strong and persuasive case for the notion that the world is running dangerously close to serious shortfall and consequent disruption in the overall supplies of crude oil for variety of reasons.

In "The Party's Over", Heinberg threads an argument that the world is quickly running out of inexpensive oil, and that the world economy as it is currently oriented around the premise of such cheap sources of oil is about to undergo a relatively sudden sea change. In fact, he argues, within the next few yeas the high mark of such oil production will peak, much to the dismay of consistently expanding requirements for ever more total production. Given this gradual but consistently greater historical requirements for oil and its products, momentary gluts on the world market are more representative of temporary relaxation of segments of the world oil market rather than indicative of an overall trend, which slowly but surely increases from decade to decade. To wit, Heinberg argues, the Western world is about to enter a new era, one that will dramatically change the nature of international commerce and the increasingly unified world economy, in which a sneeze in Asia gives Canadians a cold.

Thus, posits the author, even if the Western democracies are willing and able to initiate conservation programs and develop strategies for switching to alternative energy sources such as solar and wind power, the overall effect of the declining availability of crude oil over the coming decade or so will be to force a de-facto decline in the total availability of energy for overall consumption. Such a set of circumstances could prove to be a serious challenge to the attempts to grow the global economy, and may also seriously damage overall standards of living, especially in modern post-industrial societies like our own that are so intensively energy dependent. According to Heinberg, we may well be on the cusp of a new era as different from our current culture of extravagance and plenty as the times after the industrial revolution were from the feudal era. Yet this time the progress may be in the opposite direction.

What all this represents is a massive transition placed in its proper historical context, illustrating the several ways in which our long dependence on fossil fuels and its corollary development of corporate forces with immense geo-political influence may face a fractious and much more difficult future in the face of such dwindling sources of overall supply, including the possible of resource wars in the Middle east and elsewhere as well. Given our seemingly obsession with SUVs and all the other petroleum intensive products of modern life, the impact may be one that is especially difficult and troublesome for affluent societies such as our own. This is a troubling yet quite informative book, and one I highly recommend. Enjoy! .

Entertaining. . .
If I were rating this book solely on entertainment value, I'd have given it 4 stars. . . it was a very enjoyable read. That said, I'm not sure I could even give the arguments in the book 2 stars. I found it particularly ironic that while he repeatedly disparages economist, he liberally quote Paul Ehrlich, who was so thoroughly embarrassed in his 1980's bet with the economist Julian Simon.

Read it then Judge
Notice how almost all of the criticism of the book is not directed at what is said in the book but at some doomsayers from 30 or so years ago. Since the 1970's technology has given us a much better handle on what we have in the ground. We know from such innovations as 3-D seismic mapping that only 40% of the world's land and oceans have any potential for oil discovery and that there is a 50% chance that less than 1 trillion barrels of recoverable oil are in this 40%. This is something we had no clue about before the 1990's. As technology has enabled us to become more efficient at extracting the oil we know we have, it has ominously showed us how little is actually left. Heinberg's greatest success is in showing how the energy returned must exceed the energy spent when analyzing a source of energy. Hence it does not matter how cheap all these renewables get. Since oil is needed to build solar panels and ethanol plants and nuclear plants, we will not have enough cheap oil to upgrade the infrastructure in time to prevent a collapse.

a huge oversupply
...of bad books on the coming shortage of oil. Other reviews point out the flaws in the book including a lack of adaquet knowledge of alternative sources of fuel. For example, many reading this book may not realize that the cost of renewables has gone done 50% each decade since the 1970s. The energy future is much brighter than Heinburg portrays, and his book will soon stand next to my copy of The Coming Collapse of 1993! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Wonderful Book!
Mr. Heavens certainly knows his stuff when it comes to how to make your house look nice! Look at the back cover of the book with Search Inside the Book, and Mr. Heaven's credentials are certainly worthy of one's trust. The really cool thing about Mr. Heavens, however, is that his knowledge does not just stop at home renovation but he is truly a polymath. With this book and this great writer, renovating one's house raises from the level of a fun skill to a true art form; but of course, as you are drawn into the art, you will also learn more fun tips than you can find anywhere else.

You will not regret buying this! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Complete, concise and understandable
I am not a law student, but I want to feel secure in the legal aspects of my activities as a real estate investor. This book provides exactly that. It is easy to understand and very well organized. It may be missing a few examples for some complex points, but in general is a great book for anybody who want to really know the ins and outs of real estate law. ... Read more