Book Description

The most complete volume of real estate classified ads ever written!Cover to cover, this is easy-to-use reference is jam-packed with 2,001 winning ads for just about any listing you'll ever have. From condos to mansions and everything in between.

What's more, each chapter is broken down by location, size, terms, style and special features. Includes a complete listing of dozens of useful "ad tips' and a list of hundreds of words and phrases to help you describe even the most difficult properties in just the right way. The new 3rd edition has been fully updated to meet HUD's Part 109-Fair Housing Advertising Guidelines. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Super easy reference that gets used alot in my office!
I work on a team with 2 other realtors and each week when we get together to go over our advertising we're always looking for a "unique" or "powerful" ad. This book has hundreds of great ideas and fully written ads. The best part is that you can piece together parts from different ads to get the ideal one for the property you're advertising.

I would have given it five stars, but some of the categories of property types they give ads for I never see, let alone list, and some of the ones I do list are not included (for example Planned Unit Developments).

Overall a super reference and well worth the investment.

Great Help
I write over 60 ads a month and this has really helped in streamlining and getting the calls to come in. ... Read more

Book Description

This is a concise guide to starting up and operating a successful Home Inspection business without spending a lot of money.Many Home Inspectors are now earning $500 to $800 per day, and a pro shows how you can, too.This book focuses on a no-nonsense approach to the home inspection business without spending a lot of money on unnecessary equipment, training, or a lifetime of franchise fees. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Brilliant and Effective System
I have read almost every book available on starting and operating a home inspection business, and this one simply blows the others away. After reading and studying this one, I wish I had not purchased the others because every detail on what to do, what to write, and even what to say to customers during an inspection is in there. Michael Pompeii shows an ingeniously simple system of starting and operating a home inspection business, inspecting a house, and reporting the results so that just about anyone could do it. I tried it, and it works. My first customer was delighted with my "very professional" inspection. The best part is that I did not have to spend hundreds of dollars on other tapes and courses. I can't thank Michael Pompeii enough for the help and the confidence that his book has given me. This is by far the best book out there for anyone who is serious about becoming a home inspector.

Worth Every Penny
At first I was a little apprehensive in spending this kind of money for a book, but I'm sure glad I did. It's like you are buying a home inspection franchise manual, except you are not paying ten or twenty thousand for a franchise. For me, this book is worth every penny.

Good but way overpriced
This book has some good information on how to start a Home Inspection business but it is really overpriced. Most of the valuable information is how to run the business but if your looking for how to become at trained home inspector you won't find it here. ... Wow that's pricey. In addition the author spends a good portion of the book on how to use their copyrighted home inspection reports which must be purchased separtley to for your use. If your not interested in using those reports these sections of the book are not very useful.

A solid basic introduction to the business
If you are interested in becoming a home inspector, this book is a great place to start. It will give you the nuts and bolts about the profession as well as the tools and marketing skills required. The author lays it out in a very simple and easy to read format. I emphasize this is a great place to start, you will need to go elsewhere to find the technical knowledge and information you need to do a professional home inspection, and the author does provide a helpful list of resources at the back of the book. It is a bit expensive but information like this is hard to come by and you can save yourself a bundle of cash in the long run by heeding his advice. I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking to get into the home inspection field.

Just What I Was Looking For
The many actual samples from home inspection reports and the constant emphasis on how to inspect and report while avoiding legal hassles is just what I was looking for. Even though I know a lot about houses, I didn't know how to do a home inspection or what was supposed to be in a home inspection report, but I do now. I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description

More than ever, todays economy is in constant evolution -- continually creating new challenges and new opportunities.Real Estate Principles for the New Economy reflects on this new perspective in both the real estate industry and academic world along with the value of new economic possibilities brought about by the ever-changing information technology revolution.Miller/Geltner apply the implications of technology on both the specializations within the real estate industry and various property types.While the text covers fundamentals necessary to understand todays economy, the supplemental CD provides professional-grade spreadsheets and tools that allow you to practice these fundamentals.Together, this learning package integrates the developments in the field of financial economics that have become basic to the understanding of, and professional practice within, the real estate field. This book provides new global perspectives that enable you to become sensitive to cultural differences that may influence business decisions, risk management and negotiation strategies -- preparing you for doing business in the new economy. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

New book sets a new standard
"Great book with great CD resources such as Excel files like the cash flow analysis program" Alex Struck, Developer

"Provides an incredibly readable theoretical overview with practical market nuances, resources and advice." Mike Sklarz, Chief Valuation Officer, FNIS

"The first real estate book that is thoroughly integrated with the best of the internet based resources. Skills required of professionals are demonstrated along with the sources of data used for analysis." A. Florance, CoStar ... Read more

Book Description

Home buyers and house architects agree: the most exciting things on the housing market today are modular homes. They can be built and reach move-in condition in just a few weeks, and they offer a host of customizing possibilities.

Now Andy Gianino, founder and president of The Home Store, the largest dealer of modular homes in the Northeast, has written a comprehensive handbook for prospective modular home buyers. The book is packed with everything you need to know about buying and building a modular home--or a modular addition to your existing home.

Gianino dispels the misconceptions about the limitations of modular homes and shows potential buyers that a modular home can be as good as, if not better than, houses built with traditional stick-frame construction. Then he gets down to the nitty-gritty: choosing a dealer, working with a general contractor, selecting a floor plan, choosing the customized details, even planning the landscaping around the house. Throughout the book the emphasis is on top-quality materials and cost-effective measures to ensure that the buyer gets their dream home at a great price. What's more, this book is equally useful for anyone already in the modular business or looking to get in as a dealer, manufacturer, designer, or specialized general contractor.

Illustrated throughout with a 16-page fullcolor insert, plus a host of house plans, The Modular Home shows home buyers how going modular can expand their choices, save time, save money, and prove to be more durable than conventionally-built houses. ... Read more

Book Description

This step by step Guide of how to purchase Real Estate and Other non-standard assets with Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Qualified Plans (Keoghs).This Guide shows actual cases of eleven deals from Real Property and Notes to Tax Lien Certificates and participations.The book provides a How to Get Started section, which explains how to open and account, fund the plan and what documents are required.The large reference section provides the legal background information for the book.Written from the perspective of an administrator and recordkeeper, this book provides the inside story of how self directed investments work in real time. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

You can set up an IRA to buy real estate rather than stock.
This is a very methodical, thorough step by step manual for investing your IRA or retirement funds in real estate. This book was very helpful to me for a number of reasons. A year ago or so I asked three different advisers at Fidelity Mutual Funds whether I could use my IRA money there to purchase and renovate a piece of real estate. They each said no. But this book says the answer should have been yes. That I can set up my own IRA, even a rollover IRA or Keough, and purchase and improve real estate with the money from the IRA. And the book is very methodical about how to do it, including forms and steps in the procedure. I would think the book would also be helpful to estate planners and lawyers who are helping people plan their estates. One thing I wish the authors would address is why should you put your retirement funds in real estate rather in the stock market or mutual funds. Are there tax advantages? Is the income sheltered? Is it easier (ie fewer estate taxes on heirs) to pass real estate on to heirs--is the value of real estate discounted somehow? I wish I had had this book when I was talking to Fidelity so I could have rolled over those IRA funds into this building I bought rather than borrowing money from a bank. ... Read more

Book Description

Inspecting a House, aimed at home buyers, real estate agents, and inspectors, discusses all major problem areas in the process in a logical sequence; covers everything from storage tanks to chimney flashing; and shows how to analyze every system in a house. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Already saved me thousands of dollars
Although subtitled "For Pros, by Pros," I think any homeowner or home buyer can benefit from Inspecting A House. This winter it saved me potentially thousands of dollars in repair costs by pointing out the danger of snow build up along the eaves and dormers of my house. It's also helped me identify areas of potential concern where a little preventative maintenance can save me a lot of money down the road.

Inspecting A House's strengths include its in-depth information, easy to understand conversational tone, clear illustrations, and revealing four-color pictures of what to look for (and look out) for. Each chapter concludes with a handy checklist which you can easily photocopy and take with you as you examine your own house or go house shopping.

Inspecting a Book would be a bargain at twice the price.

Book Doesn't Discuss Many Important Topics
Doing construction work for the past 25 years makes me very knowledgable about houses. I bought this book to become a home inspector and found it to be lacking in many ways to say the least. Your local handyman could teach you more about inspecting houses than this book can. The most important topics for home construction and inspections were not even discussed in this book.

I do not recommend this inspector book.
For many years I have been working in real estate and I found this book to be very brief and basic. I cannot see how a home owner would benefit from the basic advice talked about in this book. Perhaps a book on home contstruction would be far more helpful to you. My customers ask me for advice about books to read when they buy a house and this is not one of the titles I would give them. This is not an expensive book but my main concern is reading a good book that I can learn from, not just getting a low price on it.

Inspecting A House
This is a great starter book for a general introduction into the field of home inspection. It is widely used and recommended for the Humber College - online home inspection certificate program.

Over 100 online course participants have commented on the easy reading style, and excellent photographs that accompany this book. Its also used in our face to face delivery. Its personally one of my favourites.

Terrible book for anyone who knows home inspections.
The author of this book needs to learn proper home inspection procedures before he sells himself as knowledgable. I have been inspecting homes for 19 years and often give lectures on the topic. After reading most of this book I realized what a waste of money it was because the information was incorrect or incomplete. I can't believe how many mistakes I found in this book. I'm glad I returned it for a refund on my money but not happy I wasted my time reading it! ... Read more

Book Description

This one-of-a-kind book provides valuable insight into developing raw land into marketable residential lots and homes. Comprehensive coverage includes the design, approval, and development process of developing land on time and within budget. This easy-to-use guide presents practical and proven management techniques and tools. The step-by-step description of land development is based on 20-plus years of professional and practical experiences of the author. These experiences translate into a business toolbox that will help sustain a successful and profitable real estate development company. Completely updated and revised, this second edition introduces several new chapters and sections, including the basics of residential marketing (the buyer and sales absorption; location and competition; pricing and lot premiums; product selection and preplanning; model homes, brochures, and signs; and site features and subdivision design appeal), land planning concepts (land planning for marketability; high density development; cluster and small single family lots; other planning approaches; and regulatory partnership), residential design standards (residential subdivision design survey; right-of-way and pavement widths; cul-de-sacs; street design; yard and swale grading; water and sewer; and storm drainage and stormwater management), 10 Rules for Success at the Planning Board Hearing, and more. Additional topics include land development basics, financing, schedules, consultants, conceptual design planning, residential subdivision design, project approval strategy, permits, land development bid process, land development project management, land development operations, and land development as a business. Extensive reports and checklists provide useful day-to-day management tools. Residential Land Development Practices, Second Edition is an excellent primer for use by engineering schools and their students, and will provide real estate industry professionals with the practical tools to realize quick positive project results and the ability to implement these tools immediately on the job. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Simple, beginners book
Almost half of the book is devoted to the appendices, which contain numerous useful checklists, forms, financial spreadsheets and sample agreements.

Since this is an easy introductory text, the book does not delve into the difficult (but much more interesting) topics such as feasibility analysis, community opposition to development, and equity financing. ... Read more

Book Description

If you’re like most people, your biggest investment is your house. Sell your house wisely and you not only save loads of time, but you also pocket thousands—if not tens of thousands—of dollars more than you would otherwise.  Making a big mistake in the sale of your house, on the other hand can easily cost you additional weeks—perhaps even months—of work and headache as well as half a year’s worth (or more) of your take-home income.

If you want to sell your house and don’t know where to start, House Selling for Dummies, Second Edition can show you the way. If you’ve researched this topic and would like to discover more about certain aspects of selling your home, then look no further.

House Selling for Dummies, Second Edition is a user-friendly, holistic book totally oriented to your needs as a seller. This friendly guide cuts through confusing real estate lingo and explains in plain English how to make the best possible decisi ons for your situation—whether that decision means staying in your current home rather than selling or if it means selling through a good local real estate agent. This updated edition can help you avoid making mistakes in your selling decisions and will ensure that you sell your home in the best way possible. This down-to-earth guide shows you how to:

• Research your options and the personal finance ramifications of your decision to sell or not to sell
• Decide whether you should sell your house yourself or bring in an agent
• Find the right team of real estate professionals to work with
• Prepare your house before you put it on the market
• Determine the value of your house
• Time the sale of your house
• Negotiate the sale of your house
• File your income taxes after the sale of your house

Reviews (9)

Fairly Helpful
We recently sold our house ourselves. It worked. It was definitely worth it.

I bought this book to help me better understand the issues I was facing when we got started. It was helpful and definitely worth the money. The language was easy to understand and it did highlight a number of issues that made the process easier for me.

Unfortunately there was a lot of information that didn't apply to a fairly normal situation and a number of things weren't covered (one issue is that real estate laws can vary a great deal from state to state). I think a lot of people could find the important stuff mentioned in this book on the internet or from talking to friends.

Lots of good advice
I wish I had read this book BEFORE hiring an agent, it would have saved me a lot of grief and maybe some cash. Don't think that this book is just for people selling a house themselves -- there is a lot for those who choose to work with an agent. If you go into the selling process without knowledge, you're largely at the mercy of someone who interests don't overlap yours in every way. This is the most important financial transaction of most people's lives, self-education is the best way to prevent stress and getting burned.

The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is the relative lack of information about how to leave your house -- what is expected of the seller in terms of patching walls, cleaning etc.

This book is the best investment you can make
This book was indispensable while I was selling my house. The numerous practical tips on preparing a house for sale and the explanation of the legal ins and outs were certainly helpful, but what was absolutely invaluable was the advice on avoiding the emotional pitfalls that can make you miserable and keep you from making the best business deal. Using this book's advice, I priced my house right and staged it well, and it sold very quickly for above the asking price.

This is a very small investment that will help you with a six-figure financial transaction, so it's well worth the cover price.

Don't be discouraged, all you FSBOs out there!
While I agree with a previous reviewer that it was a little discouraging that the authors thought so highly of realtors, I just ignored that part and used all the other very useful information in this book. Short story short, our house ad went in the paper on a Friday (in what the book termed "Death Valley" season, no less) and we had our buyer the next Monday!!

The info on how to spruce up your house and how to negotiate the contract was a big help. We did it all without a realtor, got the price we were aiming for, and avoided that ridiculous commission.

Absolutely practical
With no other experience than this book and its sister 'House Buying for Dummies' I have done 3 transactions over the last two years. I used them as overviews, instruction manuals and reference guides. Covers the basics in straight forward language, and also goes into sufficient detail to not require buying another books. Don't be fooled or ashamed of the title. There is nothing but intelligence in this book. ... Read more

Book Description

This business planning guide contains more than 25 worksheets and checklists to organize and track performance.It also includes three sample business plans for the novice, established agent and top producer.You will also find templates and work sheets that will assist agents with formulating their own business plan.50 creative promotional tactics from successful agents across the nation is also provided. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

GREAT BOOK FOR REAL ESTATE PLANNING
Even though another reviewer said this is not good for a new agent, I disagree. Firstly, it is my Broker's favorite and he has built a successful business using it. Secondly, IT SHOWS YOU HOW TO FIGURE PROFIT AN LOSS ON ANY GIVEN REAL ESTATE "MARKET" OR "FARM", something no other book explains this way. Once you know how much revenue a given area could produce, then you can pick the best areas to concentrate in. Since we all have to focus on a few areas or farms, this book gives a great way to choose the best farms to work on.

Because of this formula, I am able, as a new agent, to not waste my time on unprofitable markets. Although it is not just for beginners, this book is a good one to start with and it will grow with you as your career grows.

Tobeykins

For experienced agents only
Being a new real estate agent I brought this book with the hope that it would help me build my new business. I was wrong. This book mainly talks about looking at your past few years of realestate sales and changing your program using your past data into a better program. Utterly useless for the beginning agent. Carla Cross has a very good title writer for her books, since i brought her another one of her books in vain.

Solid Planning Guide
Even if you appreciate the importance of planning your business -- a MUST -- this guide is a very good resource to get you started. Much better for the experienced agent than a new licensee.

Comprehensive Business Planning
This book is the most comprehensive of its kind under one cover. It addresses the business within a business and ties together all aspects of planning with a logical flow--a very credible work by a well respected leader within the real estate profession.

Attain a Higher Level of Professionalism and Profit
Whether you have a business background or not, this book provides a thought provoking how to plan that will help any agent move to a higher level of professionalism and profit. I recommended it to the National Association of Realtors convention when I spoke to hundreds of managers and agents, and I highly recommend it to both agents and managers. ... Read more

Book Description

Today's real estate market is a house of cards--learn what homeowners can do to prepare for its pending collapse

Soaring home prices and 50-year low interest rates have lulled homebuyers into a false sense of security. But plummeting consumer confidence and record-high personal debt threaten to blindside overextended homeowners and real estate investors.

The Coming Crash in the Housing Marketshows homeowners how to avoid owing more to lenders than their houses are worth--known as an "underwater" mortgage--and reveals commonsense steps for protecting one's assets when the bottom falls out.

In this compelling, well-documented book, renowned economic consultant John Talbot tells current and potential homeowners how to survive and thrive in tomorrow's world of slashed home values. He presents:

• Convincing reasons why the housing market will likely crash within two years
• Startling similarities between this and previous economic disasters

Reviews (44)

Maybe Mr. Greenspan should give this book a read...
I found the book did an excellent job of giving a "big picture" view of the current status of the US housing market. As I am in the investment industry, the real estate market has concerned me for sometime. If the business side of the economy doesn't recover before the consumer side losses its steam, we could really be in trouble.

I share the authors concerns about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Hopefully, the Treasury will oversee these two institutions soon so we might see some progress in getting these two goliaths under control.

I would have found it helpful if the author spent some more time drawing contrast to some of the previous real estate bubbles that we have seen around the globe. Japan and Hong Kong are two recent examples of what can go wrong when the bubble bursts. As well, it would have been nice to see data prior to 1968. Thirty-five years is still a relatively short period of time.

The fun won't last
If we look around at these real estate prices, I think most of us would have the gut reaction that Talbott is correct. He does a nice job laying out his arguments with data. When you see house prices in places like California (from outside the state), you realize that it just can't go on like this. My own personal example: a cousin who bought a house in the Chicago area for 500,000 in 1999 and sold it 2 years later for 750,000. That is just not normal. The author's use of a housing P/E ratio is enlightening.

Real estate insiders tend to argue that houses are a great investment and that there's only an upside to buying a house, but any investment carries a downside risk. The whole idea that housing is a fabulous investment is so new and so in that it just screams "bubble"! Our parents and grandparents bought houses so that they could retire rent-free, not so that they could have a 600% return on investment.

I only gave the book 4 stars because the editing is terrible. I could hardly make it through some sentences. McGraw-Hill should really do better. He also assumes that a (married) man is reading the book ("you and your wife"). I'm sure I'm not the only grrl who does the finances.

Also, some of the suggestions for avoiding losing money are pretty silly. Would it really be a good investment to build a bachelor pad over my garage to rent out? Should I sell my house where my job is and move out to the boondocks? A big no on both of those.

Nonetheless, a worthwhile read.

Well researched and informative.
Despite the blatant fear mongering title, this book actually uses sound reasoning, statistics and facts to prove a point that houses are overvalued.

Talbott gets into the increasing housing costs for individuals, especially the recent spike that economically doesn't make sense. He goes through the range of reasons, from the low interest rates, the stock market abandonment, to the increasing amounts of leverage. He then explains how those prices are out of range historically.

The most impressive and eye opening part was the thorough and precise explanation of the inefficiency of the housing market. He goes through the irrationality of the current home owners, mortgage insurance companies, the bankruptcy system, and tells how the structure of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac encourages increasingly risky and extended loans while shutting out healthy competition.

The only disappointment was the fact that I was not convinced of a crash. He did an excellent job of showing the overpriced market, but gave no reason why a correction would be sudden or dramatic, as opposed to a gradual leveling off in a few years.

All in all, it's an informative and worthwhile read.

A word to the wise -yikes- but will it be read?
I think the author is right. Home "values" have jumped up in response to the unsustainable low interest rates, as buyers have based their offers on mortgage payment size, and have been able to "afford" much much higher prices. Interest rates CAN'T go down, but if they go up, the same size mortgage could have payments of 2x-3x or more - unaffordability will drive prices down.

Then a lot of homeowners will end up with "underwater assets" meaning the outstanding balance on the mortgage is higher than the market value of their homes. This is particularly likely since the current custom is to keep taking home equity out with refinancing. These owners have no margin, and if they have to sell, they could be bankrupted.

If you know someone about to buy a home, buy, read, and give them this book. They might consider a slightly smaller home, and end up ahead in the end.

BTW, the author is not exactly the font of all wisdom. He actually called Michael Moore's cruel and deliberately deceptive movie, Bowling for Columbine, a "wonderful documentary"!! I was glad that was on the second to last page.

No one can predict the future
I have sold two condos over the last five years. I have been trying to decide whether I should rent or buy again. Having read books and articles from both sides, those who believe there is a housing bubble and those who believe prices will level off but not decrease, I have concluded that both make good arguments but only time will tell. I could come up with arguments to rebut everything said in this book and I could come up with arguments to rebut those who don't believe a housing crash will occur.

Here are the main arguments in support of a bubble:
*Many people are choosing adjustable rate mortgages. The inevitable increase in interest rates will make mortgages unaffordable for many. Many people will choose to sell their homes, creating excess inventory and lower prices.
*Rental vacancies are at records highs. Rent vs. Buy calculations are most likely to favor renting, driving more people out of the housing market.
*There is a huge gap between monthly mortgages and rents. The wider this gap grows the more likely people will choose to rent rather than buy, driving down demand and therefore prices.
*Only 20 percent of families can afford a home in today's high priced market.

Here are the arguments against a bubble:
*While rates will rise in the next few years an improving economy will bring better jobs and pay raises. This means that most homeowners will be able to pay the higher costs of their ARM mortgages. Also, many people who have ARMs can currently afford to pay 30 year rates, but they choose not to, to save money. When they see that rates are rising they can always get in on a good 30 year deal.
*The main reason for the record high rental vacancies is the recession. Many individuals and families have moved back in with parents. An improving economy will drive many of these people into the rental market driving up rents.
*More people entering the rental markets will close the gap between the cost of renting and the cost of a mortgage.

*Based on salaries only 20 percent of families can afford a home. However, for those who currently own a home the high rates of appreciation provide them with huge downpayments if they want or need a new home. So when assets are considered a lot more than 20% of families can afford houses despite the high cost.

Talbott's book is an interesting read but no one can predict what will happen in the future. The author may be right and he may be wrong. We'll have to wait and see what happens. If you have a home and are wondering if you should sell or if you want a home and are not sure you should buy now I would say don't let Talbott's views sway you. Read more arguments and come to a conclusion based on what seems to be going on in your local housing market.

I found a brand new affordable townhouse and I have a large downpayment, so I have decided to go ahead and buy. Even if Talbott is right and the market crashes I can make my monthly payments, which is ultimately what matters. This will be my third purchase and buying sure beats renting. ... Read more

Book Description

Barron's Business Keys have gained a deserved reputation as easy- to-read books of sound advice for consumers and non-experts. These brief, fact- filled volumes cut through business and financial jargon and speak to consumersin plain English. They offer information and advice on saving, investing,protecting one's assets, coping with taxes, and prudent management of personalfinances. Updated to reflect the current real estate market, this book presentsan informed view of the advantages and potential pitfalls connected with buyingforeclosed and bargain properties. Various sources are described includinglending institutions, the FHA, the Farmer's Home Administration, and others.There are valuable tips for buying at auction and for taking advantage ofspecial programs such as urban homesteading. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Keys to Buying Foreclosed & Bargain Homes
This book was extremely disappointing. It is too high level and superficial to provide any actionable information. It provides the same level of detail I'd expect from a magazine article, not a book.

Over simplified and short
I've read about 6 books on real estate bought from Amazon, and I have to say that this one is the most oversimplified. It is like reading one of those "pocket MBA" books, which just tells you terms and procedures. Don't expect to read this book and be able to transact "foreclosed and bargain homes". It is far from that! For instance, the chapters on how to identify and find a "bargain" home comes down to this: look it up at a bank, MLS, or internet. Heck! I could have told you that for free! Given that that is the most important step, I was really disappointed with this book. Don't waste your money...

If you want to buy an overview or basics book on home buying I sugget the "Unofficial Guide to Buying a Home" which is much more detailed and straightforward about buying a home. And it covers in better details what are the pitfalls of buying a bargain home.

A good read for those searching for discounted real estate.
I got this book because I became disenchanted with attempting to purchase real estate through tax liens and was searching for a better way. What I have found by reading this book is that it is possible to purchase real estate at a discount if one is willing to do the leg work.
The authors do a good job defining bargain homes, dicussing strategies on getting the best price and locating repossessed homes. Also the book has a useful glossary, helpful checklist and locations of Hud and VA offices around the country.

Concise and easy to read
This book is wonderful for the novice trying to learn about the business of investing in real estate. There is not a wasted word in this book and each chapter is only 2-3 pages long so it can be read inbetween commericals during a movie. I read over half the book during one movie.

There are helpful checklists and nuggets of suggestions that should help anyone wanting to buy a house or an investment such as Exhibit 1 showing how prices tend to change according to the season and the General Checklist to apply to any property you are considering buying. There are addresses for all the Hud offices in the US. There are tables to calculate mortgage payments based on the interest rate and there is an excellent explaination of the foreclosure process.

This a nugget of a book written in an extrememly readable and digestable manner. It may be a little too basic for experienced real estate investors but it is perfect for those just starting to learn the subject. I wish I had this book when I bought my first house and anyone facing foreclosure could benefit from reading it as well to understand the process.

Lacking passion and soul, a textbook coverage.
Written by two Ph.D.s (one a CPA and MAI appraiser), this book adequately covers the various avenues to buying foreclosed property. However, the treatment is general, often in the manner of a textbook, resulting in a mediocre treatment of what can be a very interesting subject. This book may provide a description of the landscape, but it really doesn't tell a first time purchaser how to navigate it. Nor does it provide a lot of insight into the acquisition of properties at "bargain" prices. The chapter "Investment Analysis" is about 2 1/2 pages, and budgets get about a half paragraph. One paragraph in the book deals with whether it is okay for a buyer to work with more than one broker, but there is minimal emphasis on the fact that most realtors represent the interests of the seller, rather than the buyer. I am sure that these guys know a lot and have seen a lot of interesting inspirational stories. However, they are not in this book. The book would have been better if more detailed examples, perhaps from the authors' experience, illustrating the various processes were included. There is also a lot more that can be learned about the various foreclosure acquisition avenues that is not included. The previous reviewer displays much more passion for this book than do the authors. A beginning purchaser would do well to supplement his knowledge with other books, similar to Craig Hall's The Real Estate Turnaround, or William Nickerson's book (now out of print), and books on negotiation by others such as Nierenberg. ... Read more

Book Description

"... want to buy a house or other real estate below market value? If so, read this book."--Robert J. Bruss, syndicated real estate columnist

Home foreclosures are at a ten-year high, and this new edition of Melissa Kollen-Rice's bestselling guide fills readers in on everything they need to know to find and finance real estate bargains from banks, S&Ls, public auctions, government agencies, and other sources. Packed with worksheets, checklists, and contact directories, Buying Real Estate Foreclosures is the resource for novices and pros alike. This fully revised and updated edition features:

• Guidance on pitfalls, hidden costs, sources of foreclosure lists, and creative financing strategies
• Valuable sample forms and documents
• A new chapter--"What the banks don't want you to know: why are they so motivated to sell?"
• New strategies to help investors cut through the red tape
• In-depth discussions of the benefits and risks of all types of financing
• A completely updated pre-bid checklist

Reviews (11)

As a novice I found this book helpful!
I found this book very helpful as an introduction into the world of real estate foreclosures. It was clear and concise the chapters were short and well defined. It is a great introductory book on the subject!

Best Investment I've Ever Made
I have purchased several books on foreclosures over the years (including the informercial ones that cost several hundred dollars). This book by far is the best value. It gives a no-nonsense approach to buying foreclosures and teaches you how to make money without losing your shirt. Melissa Kollen-Rice is a very accomplished writer and is soon to be a lawyer (if she is not already). For less than $20, you owe it to yourself to buy this book.

Best Foreclosure Book I Have Found
This book is the best of the best. Melissa's experience and practical advice are amazing. Don't waste your money on those TV informercial people like I did. For less than $..., this book will give you everything you need and more.

Best Mortgage Foreclosure book found
For all of you in New York and New Jersey, this is a MUST have book. Yes some of the information is a bit outdated (written before the internet explosion) it still has a great deal of useful information for buying foreclosures in mortgage states. The author gives courses on Long Island, NY and contributes to many local real estate publications. I also recommend "Flipping Properties"by William Bronchick,...
Finally, don't waste your money on another of those "national foreclosure programs" sold on late night TV or through heavy email marketing -- they are a waste of money. Get this book instead, you'll be very happy!

Best investment I ever made
Great book! I found this book very helpful, especially compared to all of the garbage that they spew on TV. Everyone can can find several useful items in this book, no matter how experienced or inexperienced they are. I am now living in my first foreclosure and I'm looking forward to buying another one for investment. ... Read more

Book Description

One of the most popular real estate prelicensing texts on the market! Completely updated, this best-selling principles book introduces the fundamentals of Real Estate unlike any other providing the user with a solid understanding of the real estate industry.Jacobus uses a readable yet authoritative approach making it a user-friendly resource for acquiring the knowledge to pass the licensing exam.As always, Jacobus highlights new and expanding concepts in the field of real estate while continually reinforcing the more stable concepts that have been the cornerstone of American real estate ownership. Key chapters dealing with the financial aspects of real estate now include new information based on current changes and trends in the marketplace -- Lending Practices, The Loan and the Consumer, Sources of Financing, and Types of Financing - essential for understanding the industry. ... Read more

Book Description

Packed with powerful, proven, and time-tested techniques, Pure Profits gives you the tools for changing your life and improving your financial situation. Al Auger's real life examples and step-by-step game plan will put you on the fast track to success.

Discover how to:
Spot first-rate real estate locations
Network easily and effectively
Improve your personal performance and negotiating skills
Evaluate and limit risk
Create a winning proposal that targets high returns ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great guide when changing careers
Pure Profits by Al Auger has been a great tool for me to use as I change careers. For some one who was not involved in real estate proior to this career change it provided me with a clear and logical guide to getting started. I found the exercises to be a very valuable. They forced me to practice what I had just read in the chapter. As they say the best way to learn something is by doing it, and that is exactly what the exercises accomplished with me.

Much of the information is really common sense. Pure Profits helped bring back to me many of the skills I had learned in my 30 year sales & marketing career. I keep the book with me all the time and constantly refer back to it as I begin to make moves in real estate.

In a way I hope more people don't find out about it so I can maintain an edge on those I deal with. The first real estate agent I dealt with went out and bought the book as soon as I mentioned it. Now he knows where I am coming from as we discuss deals. So you can see, the book isn't only for beginners like me but experienced agents can benefit as well.

Great book don't miss it.

Thorough and to the point
"Pure Profits" is a complete course in commercial real estate investing. The book is filled with tips and information garnered from the author's many years of experience as a real estate investor. Just as important, he describes various pitfalls that are easy to fall into if you don't know about them. The various areas discussed include creating a relationship with a broker (or becoming a broker yourself), obtaining relevant information, locating the right property, making your investment plan, negotiating, important contract clauses, and creating a proposal that appeals to investors. There is not a lot of fluff in this book. It is concise, to the point, and contains multiple illustrations and examples to help you learn the finer points of investing in commercial real estate. If you want to get started in commercial real estate investing or want to make your efforts more efficient and consistently profitable then this is a book you will not want to miss. It is a recommended purchase for anyone wishing to become involved in or wishing to better their success rate in commercial real estate investing.

Information, Information, Information!
The idea of a career in commercial real estate intrigued me for years. This book helped me make the leap to finally do it. Al Auger explained the commercial real estate investment process in detail -- both the good and the bad -- and gave me all the information I needed to succeed. In addition to all the technical details, his book also shows how to better yourself by improving you communication skills, raising your confidence, and a lot more. Auger says all these elements will contribute to your success in commercial real estate.

Pure Profits certainly helped me gain a better understanding of commercial real estate. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the business! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Basics in real estate sales covered in details.
This book covers basics in the real estate JOB from start to finish. Very straightforward in his approach, Mike Ferry explains how to do well in real estate and how to be committed to it and be organized and scheduled as if it were a regular 9-5 JOB.

Although there are many realtors that do very well in this JOB, (the Mike Ferry approach), this JOB is tiring, requires multitudes of commitment and is very, very, very repetitive and boring.

Most top producers do not treat real estate as their JOB, they treat it as their business. Gary Keller in "The Millionaire Real Estate Agent" explains how to make it a business, rather than just a JOB.

A must to read if you are serious about selling real estate!
This is a super charged book that will change your life and the way you think about selling real estate!

sucks!
this book is full of cliches and is very outdated. the stuff he talks about does not relate to real estate anymore. he recommends you don't farm?!!?!?!?!?! i really can't stand the writing style and how choppy it is. also, the print is really small and hard to read, and i have 20/20 vision!

No surprises in this one.
Basically, work smart not hard. I think we all know this already. I don't find any surprises in this book.

Thinking about a CAREER in Real Estate?
This book will help you decide. It tells you how successful agents operate, AND behaviors that ensure mediocrity. If you plan on attempting to sell Real Estate without reading this book, I hope you're in my territory! ... Read more

Book Description

Thirteen years ago, Tom Hopkins, the top real estate sales trainer in the country,published How to Master the Art of Listing and Selling Real Estate—theindustry’s bible—which has consistently sold well despite information that has becomesomewhat outdated. But now Hopkins gives a cutting-edge revamp to his still- popularclassic. Along with its new title, readers can expect a complete elimination of datedmaterial and inclusion of the most current information on the role of the Internet andcomputer software needed by every real estate professional.

Full of anecdotes, sales scripts, and proven tactics, Mastering the Art of Selling RealEstate will show readers how to:

• Find the best listing prospects
• Win over "For Sale by Owner" sellers
• Earn the seller’s trust
• Work an unrealistic price down to market
• Arrange the final agreement

Anyone who’s serious about real estate can take charge with Mastering the Art ofSelling Real Estate. ... Read more

Book Description

Written by an expert with 20 years of experience in commercial site evaluation, The Site Book is a practical book that takes a logical and process-oriented approach to site evaluation. Built around dozens of real-life examples of sites that work, sites that don't - and all the reasons why - this book explores the dynamic and sometimes complex relationship between site features and other factors that will ultimately determine the success of any restaurant or retail location. The Site Book features:

In depth discussion of the major areas affecting a site evaluation including customer sources, usage patterns, demographic reports, day parts, linkages, drop-in features, physical surroundings, image, trade area, growth strategies, competition, and cannibalism.

A step-by-step guide through the site evaluation process using a unique site evaluation worksheet.

Strategies for measuring and weighting the relative importance of each site feature and calculating a final site score.

Practical tips for specific concepts and varying market conditions - such as opening a first destination in a new market, adding a second store, or backfilling in a saturated market.

Strategies for site selection in competitive markets where the best locations are in short supply. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

It's a Roadmap for Site Selection!
This book was referred to me by a co-worker (who happened to be an expert in real estate). Thanks!! I only wish I'd stumbled upon it years earlier.

After struggling with a homegrown spreadsheet modeling approach in my first retail business, this book brought together all the missing pieces in a way that made perfect sense. It gave me a framework to account for the qualitative site feature data that is so important, yet so difficult to deal with. It became my roadmap for site selection.

The logical model outlined in this book comes to life through Fenker's humorous examples of tips & traps.

If your business depends on good sites, you must read this book!

Great for everyone
This book is great for everyone from the beginner to the seasoned sales forecaster.

I browse it every now and again to remind myself that there are fundamentals to this business, and we know how costly veering from those can be.

It's a fast read, and I highly recommend it to those doing site selection. ... Read more

Book Description

MAKE MONEY IN REAL ESTATE TAX LIENS

How does a guaranteed short-term profit of fifteen, twenty-five, or even fifty percent sound? What if you could acquire a property valued at $100,000 with just a $10,000 investment? In the tax lien game, those kinds of profits aren't just possible, they actually happen! In Make Money in Real Estate Tax Liens, Chantal and Bill Carey show you how to profit from this safe and reliable wealth-builder. Inside, you'll find answers to all your important real estate tax lien questions:

• What are real estate tax liens?
• What are the risks versus the returns of tax lien investing?
• Why should I buy tax liens?
• How, when, and where can I buy tax liens?
• Will I have to foreclose on properties?
• Does my state offer tax liens?
• How do investors redeem tax lien certificates?
• Will I end up owning property?

Look inside for the answers and start making money today! ... Read more

Reviews (2)

You Can Purchase Tax Lien Certificates
These certificates pay a guaranteed rate of interest which varies, but can be about 5 or 6 times the interest rate of money in the bank. In additon, there can be a bonus at the end of the certificate time (sometimes 2 years). If the lien is not paid off with interest and fees the governmental taxing authority will sell the lien to you and then you own the property because you paid the taxes on the property.

Some useful details, but ...
... the text is written in an informal conversational style targetting an average 8th grade student.If you want something that can fill its pages with solid substance, look elsewhere.On the other hand, if taxes and legal jargon intimidates you, the baby-talk tone of this book is for you. ... Read more