Book Description

A large percentage of the rich in America today make their wealth (or keep it) through real estate.In REAL ESTATE RICHES, self-made real estate mogul Dolf De Roos reveals why investing in property is so astoundingly simple and lucrative, as well as insider secrets for getting into--and ahead in--this high-profit business. ... Read more

Reviews (121)

The #1 Millionaire Developer: REAL ESTATE
As Andrew Carnegie said over 100 years ago; "More money has been made in real estate than in all industrial investments combined."I strongly suspect that the 1 star reviewers are stock market players concerned that this book will pull more investors from stocks into real estate.I'm a player in both stocks and real estate. My strategies in the stock market are very aggressive similiar to what the author teache in this book on real estate: high leverage with options and margin accounts, covered calls and dividend capturing for income and sect 29 tax credits to lower taxes. Real Estate Riches is a good little book. It explains the why, but not the how (I suspect there will be a followup book) but don't let that deter you from buying and reading this great book. It is packed with powerful information.For more on the how, I recommend Real Estate Money Machine.Finally, the indvidual that wrote that real estate is traditionally a lousy investment clearly does not know what he is talking about. REAL ESTATE IS A GREAT INVESTMENT.

A very good real estate book
Emerson once said, "The hardest thing for people to do is to think."This book gets you thinking. It's not about techniques. For techniques, read Nothing Down, A Fortune at Your Feet, Flipping Properties or Real Estate Money Machine.What Dolf deRoos does do with this book is what the other books in the RDPD series have done; get you to think. To develop a philosophy. To show you how to become a Ultimate Investor instead of a average investor.QUESTION: All of those great Real Estate books and websites that keep getting recommended. If they are so great, where are all of the real estate tycoons? Hmmmm????Read. learn, apply and succeed. Then come back and tell us the truth about this book.Happy investing.

Real profits in real estate
What I like aboout the Rcih Dad advisor series is that the books are written by people who are actually experienced and knowledgable about the topic they are writing on.

For example, in this book, we have the great Dolf deRoos who has made a small fortune investing in real estate. He has walked the talk and talks the walk. He has been there, done it and done it again.

If your goal is to become a sucessful real estate investor, then I highly recommend this great book by Dolf de Roos.

Dolf is a genius!
Without a doubt, Dolf is one of the greatest minds in real estate investing. He knows this business. Just one idea saved me tens of thousands and made the difference from a what could have been a very bad investment to a very successful investment.

I highly recommend this book for all serious real estate investors. Great book Dolf.

The #1 Millionaire creator=REAL ESTATE
Without question, more people have created fortunes in Real Estate than in any other way. More than in the stock market. More than in MLM. More than by becoming a CEO for a Fortune 500 company and best of all, real estate is available to the masses.

They ain't makin anymore land and one constant is that people will always need a place to live. Real Estate is the greatest millionaire maker and no monthly sales quota's or sales volume requirements!

This great book by Dolf explains the why and some of the how. It is a great addition to your library. And the profits you will make will be a great addition to your wealth. ... Read more

Book Description

Earn fast profits on foreclosures–with little or no money down!

Foreclosure properties are one of today’s hottest investments–and one of the quickest, easiest ways to turn a profit in real estate. But with so many investors in the game, competition is driving auction prices through the roof.This book introduces both novice and experienced real estate investors to a better way to invest in foreclosures. This step-by-step guide shows you how to find great foreclosure properties, purchase the seller’s equity for pennies on the dollar, and then sell the contract to another investor for quick cash.

If it sounds simple, it is! Quick Cash in Foreclosures shows you how to profit from foreclosures without risking your savings. You don’t have to qualify for a loan, battle the hordes at foreclosure auctions, or pay exorbitant repair and resale costs. All you have to do is apply the authors’ proven system and you too can earn fast profits in the foreclosure market. With this straightforward guide, you’ll learn how to:

• Find owners in distress
• Purchase an owner’s equity, not their property
• Negotiate with the lender before foreclosure
• Purchase FHA and VA government foreclosures
• Profit in the secondary mortgage market–Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and FDIC foreclosures
• Get the lowest purchase price at foreclosure auctions
• Flip, assign, or option your foreclosure contracts
• Use easy paperwork and clauses for maximum protection

Reviews (9)

Best book on IRA investing I've read
Just finished Pat Rice's book IRA WEALTH. I've been in investment real estate for 42 years and know Pat Rice. This book is easy to read, easy to understand. No investments are 100% guaranteed, but in this period of low interest rates, the yields that Pat can secure are authentic and just, given the various scenarios he works out.
Real estate is very unlikely to be wiped out, like various stocks in the stock market, or even groups of stocks in mutual funds. Also, you can trust the accounting. Diversify, which is what Pat is saying in here, don't put it all in one real estate loan or one stock deal. To know that you CAN invest in real estate is a great comfort not to mention the higher yield.

Not Worth Reading
I first hear about alternative IRA investments through a real estate class I took to become a broker. I picked up this book because I wanted to learn more about the subject. As I have read extensively in the subject of investments, the fact that I didn't learn much from this book doesn't necessary mean it's not a good read for some people.

My problem with this book is that it holds real estate investments in IRA (specifically Roth IRA) out to be one-size fits all solution to retirement riches for everyone. It claims a minimum 12% annual return with zero chance of going wrong. It claims RE IRAs has a lower cost (including fees to trustee, financial advisor, attorney, accountant, and real estate broker) compared to brokerage IRAs which supposedly cost 3-6% a year. As with all comparison the author makes in this book, real estate IRA is better in all respects to everything else.

Most Americans have high percentage of their net worth tied up in their residence; does it make sense from a diversification point of view to put their IRA in real estate as well? Is a loan to someone who couldn't get a loan from the banks really an investment with zero chance of going wrong?

The author claims to have many years of experience, which I wish could have translated to more examples of what could go wrong so the reader can learn from others' mistakes. I learn absolutely nothing from scenarios after scenarios of perfectly constructed examples that produces double or triple digit returns.

There are several calculation errors and mistaken use of financial terms but in general the book is easy to read. My favorite quote from the book, which comes after a paragraph describing which relatives are not prohibited from transacting with your IRA: "For some of you, this information alone is worth the price of this book."

I think I will be going back to my local book store.

Examining both low-risk and high-return real estate ventures
IRA Wealth: Revolutionary Strategies For Real Estate Investment is the collaborative effort of Patrick W. Rice (investment columnist and the owner of IRA Resource Associates -- offering expertise in investment real estate for self-directed retirement accounts) and Jennifer Dirks (personal finance and real estate issues staff, and winner of the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2002 "Journalist of the Year award for the Pacific Northwest), diverges sharply from the common understanding that IRA holdings can only be invested in stocks and certificates of deposit. In response to the decline of the stock market, IRA Wealth presents real estate as a profitable and worthy investment venture, and one that is perfectly legal to hold in any personal IRA account. Examining both low-risk and high-return real estate ventures, IRA Wealth is a superbly presented, "reader friendly", informational presentation for anyone seeking to diversify their IRA account holdings into property as a hedge against the volatility of the stock and bond markets.

Opened my mind to new ideas
IRA Wealth provides a series of alternatives to the traditional IRA Stock Market investment opportunities. The book is organized to first dispel the myth that investing in real estate with your IRA is illegal and second to explain how to structure your IRA investments with a "self-directed" IRA. The following chapters identify IRA real estate investments based on the level of risk associated with that particular type of real estate investment. The final chapters discuss some of the nuances of liquidating your real estate investments upon the time of your mandatory IRA distributions. Finally, IRA Wealth provides several appendices to help you start your own due diligence with regard to IRA investing in real estate.
Overall, I enjoyed reading IRA Wealth and found that it opened my mind to new ideas on IRA investments. Most of us have probably felt the sting of lackluster stock market returns during the past few years. So the prospect of low to moderate risk real estate investments is clearly of interest. I found the organization of the book to be well thought-out and comprehensive. If you have already read several books on real estate investing, you will realize that several investment methods continue to pop-up. IRA Wealth takes those methods and ties them to your IRA.
Regardless of your level of experience with regard to real estate investing, I believe you will find IRA Wealth a worthwhile read and well worth your time.

Easy and inspirational read
I have just begun to read your book and it is perfect timing as my husband and I have a sum saved in our IRA. We plan to read the book together and investigate the investment strategies suggested. Thank you. The book is an easy and inspirational read on a complex subject. ... Read more

Book Description

Start building your fortune with the ultimate insider's guide to real estate investing

The Insider's Guide to Making Money in Real Estate explains why real estate is a consistently profitable moneymaker and how everyday people just like you can build their fortune regardless of their credit score or how much money they have in the bank. It's true—you don't have to be rich to invest in real estate. It's the easiest, most leveraged method for building sustainable wealth over time, and it's open to everyone.

In this practical, nuts-and-bolts guide, New York Times bestselling real estate authors Dolf de Roos and Diane Kennedy cover all the basics of investing and offer the kind of insider advice and little-known tips you won't find anywhere else. You'll get a wealth of bright ideas and smart investment moves, as well as examples, case studies, and true investing stories from successful investors just like you. Inside, you'll learn:

• The ins and outs of commercial versus residential property
• How to spot great bargains in neighborhoods with great potential
• How to finance your investments with less-than-perfect credit
• Quick tips for increasing the value of your property inexpensively
• How to find reliable tenants who'll pay top dollar
• Everything you need to know about property taxes and deductions
• How to use tax benefits to increase your profits

Reviews (1)

This guy reaches out to people.
Of all the real estate books that I have read or checked out and of all the real estate gurus that I have checked out, Dolf is the best.

This book goes beyond Real Estate Riches. Dolf explains h ow to purchase commercial property. He also explainshow to spot property with a below-value "twist."

And there is more, like:

* No-fail mortgage application

* Purchase and sale clauses that work

* Make offers with seller appeal

* The offer; yield a bit or stand your ground?

* Settlement and possession structure

* Proposals for finance

* Ensuring that tradespeople do your jobs first

* Cutting non-performing tenants loose

My business has been primarily network marketing. Using Dolf de Ross real estate strategies has provided me with an additional stream of income as well as reducing my tax bill.

Real estate is somewhat likenetwork marketing in that you can start with very little money, use leverage and create exponential growth.

Great book. A must read. ... Read more

Book Description

If you want to invest in real estate, don't be misled by "one size fits all" infomercials that promise instant riches.Learn from an expert.Investor Robert Shemin shares the real life strategies he's used to amass a real estate portfolio worth millions.

Given the right tools, nearly anyone can make money investing in real estate, which Robert Shemin proves in his powerful new book, Secrets of a Millionaire Real Estate Investor.Whether you're a novice or a seasoned investor, Shemin's got strategies you can take to the bank.A multi millionaire in his early 30s, Shemin teaches three basic strategies for making money through real estate:
* Buy and "flip" property to another buyer for more money.
* Buy, rehab, and resell property.
* Buy and hold property as a landlord.

Shemin also shows that ethical investing is the surest way to build optimal long term profits. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Great real estate investing info!
This book has helped me get started in investing in real estate. It helped me understand the different kinds of real estate investing from lease-options to flipping to being a landlord. I have also recommended this book, and Shemin's Landlord book, to friends who already own lots of properties and wanted to manage their properties and investments more effectively. Highly recommended.

Must have for anyone serious about investing in real estate!
This book has incredible insight and also comes with forms at the back of the book that you can use as a reference prior to getting an review by your attorney.

This author is an attorney that has integrity. One of my favorite things that he mentions in his book is that anyone that has purchased 30 more properties, he feels they owe it to give back in some way. He suggests working with people that are homeless but are working and are wanting to have their own house. He then has them learn about money management from a variety of free courses, and then takes the rents from the first year, saves them and applies them to their deposit for their own home.

A true inspiration!!

Worked for me.
Robert's book is fun and easy to read. I am a successful Realtor but the ideas from Robert's experiences led me to purchase my home on lease option. We got a great deal and we will make around $50,000 to $60,000 or more in profit when we sell! Thank you, Robert, for sharing your wisdom with us. The question I ask the rest of you is, "What will you do after reading the book?"

Secrets of a millionare real estate investor
I truly enjoy reading this book. It demonstrates the use of common sense and giving back. And, that is how I actually starting in the real estate field. I have over sixteen years of property management experience and a successful owner, and investor in rental properties. And, this book has made a great impact on me. I would recommend it to anyone who is a novice or itermeditate and want to learn more about investing, owning, and flipping properties. It's definately a realistic book. Others, I would strongly recommend would be Lanlording, Find It, Buy It, anf Fix It is great and The New No-Non Sense Lanlord by Jergerson. You will never want to resell these books.

Good Book to get you started...
I liked this book. It was informative and contained a good amount of Shemin's experiences to color the text and information given. I do have a problem however, and it's not with the book, but rather the readers who have such negative opinions about these types of books. One of the overwhelming themes that I read in these people's negative reviews is "s/he didn't tell me how"...what are you people talking about?

Shemin told you what he did...he interviewed two hundred landlords and tenants...he looked at houses and investment properties for six months before making an offer. Even he said it didn't need to take that much time, but fear held him back. He told you how to evaluate a property, things to look for. He even provides a checklist. He told you that first and foremost "HE MADE A DECISION TO ACHIEVE FINANCIAL FREEDOM WITH REAL ESTATE". Yes, he made a decision. Any succesful person will tell you, once you make the decision, the hows become easy.

It seems like people want a book to tell them why they should do this, not how. The hows are in this book. The hows are in any book. That's why they're referred to as "How-To's". The "why" to do something is for you and you alone to figure out. Don't buy anybody's book if you're looking for why. I read the same kind of negative opinions when I look at bad reviews of Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad Poor Dad" stuff. What do you want these books to do? Go out and find the properties, get the financing, find the tenants and collect money for you?

Shemin's book is good. I will tell you to stay from Tyler Hicks' works. He's nothing but an informercial in book form. But I like what the author has to say. But, none of these books will do anything for you until...you...do...it! ... Read more

Book Description

A PAPERBACK ORIGINAL

The perfect introduction on how to get in on today's hottest investment opportunity

Stock markets rise, and stock markets fall, but real estate is almost always a sure thing, especially in today's increasingly unpredictable investment climate. That's why more and more average Americans are becoming interested in pursuing real estate investing. How to Get Started in Real Estate Investing shows them how.

Writing for investors with little or no experience in real estate, bestselling real estate author Bob Irwin walks readers through all the ins and outs of real estate investing. In a friendly, reassuring, no-hype style, he fills them in on everything they need to know to start building a winning real estate investment strategy of their own­­from how much money they'll need to get started, to how to find and evaluate properties, to the basics of financing and taxes. He delineates the seven major techniques used by successful real estate investors and provides guidelines for choosing and adapting the right one for individual readers' goals, personalities, and budgets.

Reviews (7)

Read the Title
If you are complaining about the book being too basic, or it did not give you info on what to do if you already own a home, read the title. This is a beginner's book. I have read the book and it was a great investment for beginners. It takes you through the beginning processes of investment and what you need to be wary of. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone thinking about real estate investing. I would not recommend it to someone who is knowledgeable about investing. Overall the book is very basic, yet detailed. It is not about pumping you up, but instead gives you valuable info about.. (get this)HOW TO GET STARTED.

Must Read
This book is amazing! I own two rental homes, bought with difficulty, and never realized how I could have done it so much easier and with less money down.
This book's first chapter actually walked me from example to example showing how to find and acquire rental property. Then it showed how to hold them for long term or flip quickly for cash outs. I never knew what I was missing or how easy it is. And the later chapters deal with all sorts of high-end investing including industrial, commercial and land.
This book is a must read. I don't think it matters whether you're getting started or are an old investor. It's a money-maker!
Bill Leary

generalist
the title is misleading.
I have some experience in real estate and decided to buy
professional book to learn something.
Big mistake.
The author never,yes,never gives you actual real life examples.
His experience looks like limited to California.
And US is much bigger.
Not many web sites mentioned at all if any.
Some facts that are most important to beginner are missing.
These facts are local taxes and neighborhood.

Some helpful tips, very basic, some problems
I've purchased two homes so far, just for my primary residence. Irwin's book is really geared for someone who has NEVER owned a home. Kind of an odd place to start for someone getting into real estate investing. Not a lot is said about how to start if you already own a home. Also, some of the parts on "flipping" were just silly. The woman walking down the street and stumbling upon a house for sale $50K below market? Come on. However, there are some good tips, like I said, and the part on apartment building valuation and investing was new to me.

An excellent book on real estate investing!!!
I bought this book after reading a review by Rober Bruss (the book reviewer for the LA Times) who gave it a 12 on his scale of 1 to 10 and I wasn't disappointed. It showed me how to change my current house to a rental and buy a second one. Now I'm getting rental income and I have a new house to live in! I'm working on buying a small strip mall next. Compared to the other real estate books I've bought in the past, this is the first one that really showed me how it's done. I won't sell this book for anything! ... Read more

Book Description

An expert guide to the ins and outs of real estate financing

Secrets of Buying and Selling Real Estate . . .Without Using Your Own Money! is the definitive insider’s guide to traditional and creative (yet legal and ethical!) real estate financing.

In understandable, step-by-step language, it walks you through explanations and examples of conventional real estate financing so you understand clearly how most financing works. It examines all the available creative or unusual financing strategies that seasoned investors and homebuyers use every day to buy and finance properties. Drawing on his long experience as a successful real estate investor, Robert Shemin spotlights the advantages and disadvantages of various types of mortgages, terms, and financing strategies so you know all your best options. He also includes informative material on how credit scoring works and understanding credit ratings and credit problems that could scuttle your loan. Offering proven techniques, expert tips, and creative alternatives along the way, Shemin details every important aspect of the financing process, with in-depth discussion of topics such as:

• Owners’ terms
• Contracts for deed, land contracts, and lease options
• How to use partners or cosigners
• How to get approval after a mortgage company turns you down
• How to buy property even if the bank says "no"
• Creative ways to obtain down payments, getting the seller to contribute using nonprofit programs

Reviews (15)

Take your advice from those who have done it ...
Robert Shemin gives more information and ideas in Secrets of Buying... than one very famous real estate writer gives in four books and another charges thousands of dollars for. It is not a "get rich quick" plan. Remember to get your information from those who know what they are talking about and have done what you want to do, and Shemin is that man. You will always need more information, experts in your area, and experts in different fields of real estate; and Shemin states this in his book.

One real estate book will not solve all of your problems or answer all of your questions, but the bottom line is that this one gives you more than most. I will continue to go back to this book for ideas and to fine tune my investing skills for years. The only thing missing is him taking you by the hand to take action. Take responsability, be persistant, read, educate yourself, stay positive, be careful who you take advice from, take action, and stay positive.

The Sheminator is Back!
Once again, Robert Shemin, boils the complex world of real estate down in to simple techniques that anyone can use. Now his most recent book takes away the final excuse for not making it big in real estate investing....the start-up capital. Robert is a true mentor, a businesss guru insided and outside of real estate, comical, honest, and to the point.

Robert Shemin is the next Bob Allen....only he is in the trenches making deals not just reliving the past. This, of course, makes the input from this book the most CURRENT read as of late in todays marketplace, and it is NOT old 1980's techniques. Fresh, genuine, and quite helpful!

Where's the Beef???
Anyone who remembers that old TV commercial for Wendy's will know exactly what I mean. This book has no substance. "Find a $300,000 house, buy it for $200,000 and flip it to an investor for $250,000 and pocket the difference". Yeah, it sounds nice but I live in a place called Earth. Perhaps in some depressed areas you might find sellers motivated enough to sell at that kind of discount, but don't plan on moving that property anytime soon either. Where I live, in Northern Virginia, people pay $30,000-$50,000 OVER the asking prices for a house. My neighbor just sold her TOWNHOUSE which she put on the market. She listed it for $385K and had SIX contracts on it the first week and sold it for $430K. Good luck finding a "motivated" seller around here. Up into southern Maryland you can find properties for below "market" value, but you can't turn them quickly.

This guy may have done quite well during the real estate boom, but its a different world now and the things he is saying to do "without by the way telling you HOW to do them" are just ludicrous.

Keep your money, don't waste it on this book.

The worst book
I have read probably twenty books in real Estate in the past six months...this is the worst so far. Whoever is writting is going at light speed and has no concept of teaching or sharing knowledge. It has no depth and he continuosly jumps from one subject to another not covering any of the real issues and questions. The bottom line...don't waste your money.There are "real good books" in real Estate but this is not one of them.
JC

Disseparate thoughts
I got into real estate investing primarily due to Mr. Shemin's first two books, "Secrets of a Millionaire Landlord" and "secrets of a Millionaire Real Estate Investor." Both of these books were excellent, and I wouldn't sell my copies for the world.

However, this is simply a collection of loosely connected thoughts strung together to create a book. Here is the plan presented in the book -- Find a $250,000 that you can purchase for $190,000 from a motivated seller, and sell it to someone else for $230,000, then retire rich.

Not much of a plan if you ask me, especially when where I live, a $250,000 would be a mansion, not a 3 bedroom 2 bath starter house. A real presented plan would be, do A, B, C, D, etc.

What he is suggesting in the book is not investing, rather it is speculating in real estate. While there is nothing wrong with that, let's call it what it is.

His other book, "Unlimited Riches," which I also own, covers everything here, and is a much better written book. It at least presents a cohesive plan that a novice might be able to follow.

The book updates us on where Mr. Shemin is going in his life, and career. He lets us know that he got out of the landlord business and is now speculating in real estate and "writing paper," (hard money lending) as he calls it.

I have read many what I call "Rah Rah" books. There is nothing wrong with convincing people that they too can succeed in real estate, but this book doesn't even do that.

I always try to find 2 or 3 new ideas, even out of a bad book. While there are a few ideas that make me go, "Hmm, interesting," there are no sonic booms here. The book comes off as an advertisement for his real estate seminars and multilevel marking of some products, nothing wrong with that, but not much else for me to sink my teeth into.

I am presently reading his new book "How to Avoid the 75 Mistakes Every Investor Makes." That book should have been 50 Mistakes, but they stretched a few to get 75. Mind you, they are not bad, just that some didn't even take up half a page, and there are 250 pages in that book.

If you have the money, buy the book, but if you have to choose between this one and another one, pass this one by. However, that said, do purchase his Millionaire books. They are worth the money.

In closing, I'd like to find someone who would write a book on how to check real estate records for liens. You know, the nitty gritty work of real estate investing. Instead, they all want you to pay the $1000 for this information. ... Read more

Book Description

In the Make Money series, renowned real estate investor and bestselling author Gary W. Eldred shows you how to profit from the safest, most reliable wealth builder in the world–real estate. With coverage of all the fundamentals–from finding the right properties to financing and managing them–Eldred shows you the ropes so you don’t have to learn important lessons the hard way. Unlike general guides to investing in real estate, each title in the Make Money series gives you the specialized expertise necessary to fully profit from a select investment strategy.

Make Money with Fixer-Uppers and Renovations shows homebuyers and investors how to build a fortune by purchasing properties at bargain prices, using creative improvements to add thousands to their value, and selling or renting them for high profits. There’s almost no limit to the number of ways you can increase the value of a property–from quick and low-cost improvements like a fresh coat of paint to more extensive renovations such as multi-unit conversions or kitchen remodeling. This step-by-step guide includes the knowledge you need to combine entrepreneurial thinking with proven market analysis techniques. You’ll learn to choose properties, plan improvements, and buy low and sell high. Make Money with Fixer-Uppers and Renovations will show you how to:

• Fix and flip properties for quick profits
• Buy properties with little or no money down
• Maximize your property’s market value
• Exploit regulatory loopholes
• Create pizzazz for your interiors
• Add living space to your property
• Revitalize neighborhoods to increase property values
• Market your properties for top dollar
• Save thousands with owner-occupant financing

Reviews (2)

Excellent info, but lacks some details
Make Money With Fixer-Uppers and Renovations is a creative book. It criticizes the flipping books Buy It! Fix It! Sell It! Profit! and Flipping Properties by saying they limit your thinking by telling you that the only type of properties you can get are run-down, traditional junker properties. Eldred challenges that notion by saying that the right house can be a house that feels only like a house, and not a home. He differentiates between a house and a home by saying that a house can shelter you, but doesn't excite you or move you in any way. A home is just like it sounds: a place you call home. By fixing up properties so that they feel like a home, you stand to make more money than by just fixing it up.

The book contains some very good stories and information on fixing up properties, and the information Eldred gives is well worth the price. But the information lacks real meat on how to do any of the things he's suggesting. It's like any other $19.95 book on real estate investing: you get what you pay for, and sometimes his suggestions lack detail, or feel like "top of the waves" type of techniques. If there were an upsell, you might get some kind of procedure on exactly how to invoke your local ordinances, add to neighborhood convenience, or convince a reporter to play up the neighborhood's potential for turnaround.

He also winds up providing a formula for profit in the rehab business that walks and talks a lot like the Buy It! Fix It! Sell It! Profit! formula (a book he criticizes). Apparently the formula is sound, but he believes the buying price will rarely be 60 cents on the dollar. A fair belief, but you may be able to buy it at that price; I leave it up to the investor to make that choice. (In other words, read both books and make your own decision :) ).

Despite these limitations, you do get a lot of bang for your buck. I recommend it to real estate investors who would like to expand their thinking on potential fixer-uppers.

Fantastic idea generator
As a veteran rehabber, I do not expect much that's new from most "fixer" books. But this one pleasantly surprised me. It opened my eyes to the fact that I had not come close to maxing out profits from my properties. The chapter on marketing also weighs in as solid gold. I can see why my FSBO efforts have not paid off like I thought they would. Now I know how to really sell faster and at a higher price--without paying a commission! My guess is that whether your a newbie or pro, this book will definitely guide you to make more money( or collect more rents if you choose to hold--which I do not). ... Read more

Book Description

One of America’s top real estate authorities explains the inside secrets of the mortgage business

Each year, more than ten million American homebuyers, homeowners, and realty investors enter the mortgage arena to finance or refinance their homes and rental properties. And each year, millions of borrowers pay more than they have to. But you won’t be one of them with Gary Eldred’s 106 Mortgage Secrets All Homebuyers Must Learn–But Lenders Don’t Tell.

Eldred explains all of your mortgage options and gives you the inside information you need to make the most intelligent money-saving choices. He simplifies the complicated math of mortgage financing and tells you how to make sure your loan rep is being honest with you. He covers every aspect of the mortgage process and highlights the key criteria you should always consider when making your decision. With these 106 secrets, you’ll have the confidence and the knowledge to:

• Increase your borrowing power
• Get the lowest interest rate
• Understand ARMs
• Cut the cost of mortgage insurance
• Save big with seller financing, foreclosures, and REOs
• Perfect your credit profile
• Avoid getting taken by the fine print
• Get maximum return on your home investment

There’s no reason to get a good mortgage, when you can get the perfect one for you. Simple, concise, and comprehensive, this book covers everything mortgage hunters should know–especially the 106 secrets lenders don’t want to reveal. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Outstanding guide to financing
I previously read Eldred's book,Investing In Real Estate.It's the best,comprehensive, and most sensible guide to investing that you'll find (read the reviews for youself). Likewise, this book on financing goes way beyond the other authors that I have read. (Sidenote: I cannot figure out what the Seattle reviewer is talking about, Mortgage Secrets deals exclusively with the ins and outs of financing techniques, saving money, cutting mortgage costs,and building equity faster. This book says nothing about using high leverage to get rich in real estate. As to infomercial hype, Eldred actually lambasts these gurus and warns how their "techniques" can lead the gullible to financial ruin. He even cautions strongly against home equity loans.) If you want to learn your financing options as well as the "tricks of the trade", you won't find a better book than this one. Although I'm in the business, I liked this book because a much more educated borrower gives us true professionals a stong advantage over our competition. Read Mortgage Secrets, then work with a broker who follows the insights that Eldred reveals. I'll make more money and you will get a better deal.

Encyclopedia of home financing
You won't be disappointed with this book. It really covers the territory--everything from qualifying tips to government programs to seller financing to saving big dollars. Before I read this book I didn't know a an ARM from a leg. Now I can talk mortgage talk with any lender and not feel like I'm prime meat for the wolves. Really gives the lowdown on all types of financing alternatives and how not to get caught by the fine print. Thoroughly shows how to pay off your loan faster and save tens of thousands of dollars. Nuff said. This knowledge will pay back a thousand times the cost of the book.

The author writes like a used car salesman
The author writes like a hustler who is trying to con you into believing he is something he isn't. From the quality of the information in this book, the author certainly seems to understand mortgage. Yet, the street-wise tone of the author actually curbs his own credibility. He uses phrases such as "Avoid the bang of a bursting balloon","How to borrow jumbo amounts without paying jumbo rates", and "[author] simplifies complicated math...[and] make sure your loan rep is being honest with you". Such lingo belongs in an infomercial. Beyond his own hoopla, the book does contain valuable information. Just don't buy into his own hype.

Wealth of knowledge for the amateur
I am new to real estate investing and I have minor experience as a loan officer. This book provides in depth detail and easy to understand knowledge on the most effective ways to obtain the correct mortgage financing for an individual based on their situation or need. The books also gives you a great amount of resources to obtain more help and knowledge on the subject of mortgages. I would highly recommend this book, and I might also add it is very easy to read and comprehend the concepts discussed in the book.

Thorough and objective guide
I just closed a loan on my first home and I found this book to be a helpful guide. It's not as sensationalistic as the title might imply, but it prepared me to know what questions to ask and how to get my credit,income, and bills in shape before I put in my loan application. Although I took out a new loan, this book goes into assumptions, seller financing, and other financing choices that I didn't know much about. I think a lot of people looking to buy might find these alternatives worthwhile. Overall, a profitable read.
P.S. This book is not an "infomercial" or "get rich quick" hype. It also strongly warns against misleading a lender--none of the advice is "fraudulent." I find it interesting to read other reviews and sometimes wonder if they actually read the book they are reviewing. Not just here, but with many other popular authors. Oh well, such is life. ... Read more

Book Description

This practical, real-world guide gives investors all the tools they need to make wise decisions when weighing the value and potential of investment properties. Written for old pros as well as novice investors, this friendly, straightforward guide walks readers step by step through every stage of property analysis. Whether you’re buying or selling, investing in big commercial properties or single-family rentals, you’ll find expert guidance and handy resources on every aspect of real estate finance, including:

• Proven, effective valuation techniques
• Finance tips for all different kinds of property
• How various financing strategies affect investments
• Structuring financial instruments, including leverage, debt, equity, and partnerships
• Measurements and ratios for investment performance, including capitalization rates and gross rent multiplier ratios
• Future and present value analysis
• How the appraisal process works
• Primary appraisal methods–replacement cost, sales comparison, and income capitalization–and how to know which one to use
• How to understand financial statements, including income, balance, and cash flow
• Case studies for single-family rentals, multifamily conversions, apartment complexes, and commercial office space
• A detailed glossary of important real estate terminology

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

Reviews (11)

very helpful, if not extremely polished
You will definitely find out just about anything you wanted to know about mortgages: fixed and ARM (all the others are variations on these themes). My only small complaint is the same as the reviewer's below: several times the authors refer to appendices that are not there! There are also some typos ("suprised") some in prominent places -- it just gave me the feeling that the book was rushed. One piece of information I felt they could have spent more time on was the mechanical side of paying down a 30 mortgage faster. For example, how many years does it take off your loan to put in one extra payment a year, or $100 per month, etc.... Home buyers often pick a 30 year mortgage because of the low monthly payment, but can strive to put in an extra payment a year to save tens of thousands of dollars of interest. This information would have given more details to the types of mortgages most people get. The authors spent a bit too much time by comparison on some relatively rare loans (reverse mortgages) although no one will put a gun to your head and make you read those parts. Overall, it was easy to follow and the best of the books on understanding how mortgages work and how to compare them.

Great Book For home buyers or refinancers
Buying a home is the biggest financial deal many people will ever make. If you're about to buy your first home it pays to learn the ins-and-outs of mortgages. Structuring your mortgage properly can save you thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the mortgage. "Mortgages For Dummies" explains how mortgages work and how to get a great deal on your mortgage.

"Mortgages For Dummies" begins by asking the reader to evaluate how large of a mortgage he/she can afford. Tyson and Brown discuss budgeting, which is something many people will already know. The authors point out that in addition to covering your basic expenses, such as food and water, you must also allow for your other financial goals, such as retirement planning. Only through budgeting will you get a handle on how large of a mortgage you really can afford. Obviously, you don't want to wind up with mortgage payments you can't pay!

Lenders have separate evaluations of how much you can afford. Tyson and Brown suggest that lenders will expect your monthly housing expenses and repayment of non-housing debt to total no more than about 36% of your monthly income. And, your total housing expense probably shouldn't exceed 28% of your monthly, pretax income.

Tyson and Brown suggest not making an overly large down payment, "if it depletes your emergency financial cushion." And, don't accept a bigger mortgage than you think you can afford just because the banks say you can afford it!

If possible, you probably want at least a 20% down payment on your home. Lenders borrowing to people with less than 20% equity have found that there is an increased risk of default. Because of this, Tyson and Brown explain new homeowners with less than 20% equity in their homes will need to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). PMI can cost hundreds of dollars a year. PMI benefits the borrower, not the homeowner. Tyson and Brown suggest that as soon as you have 20% or more equity in your home, you should eliminate PMI.

Another option is to have the government insure or guarantee your loan. Mortgages For DummiesTM mentions FHA, VA, and FmHA government-guaranteed loans.

Chapter 3, Fathoming the Fundamentals, was one of my favorite chapters. The chapter does a good job explaining the secondary loan market and the purpose of the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA, or Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC, or Freddie Mac).

"Mortgages For Dummies" discusses the difference between conforming and non-conforming mortages. Tyson and Brown write: "This delicious tidbit of information can save you big bucks. Conventional mortgages that fall within Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's loan limits are referred to as conforming mortgages. Mortgages that exceed the maximum permissible loan amounts are either called jumbo loans or nonconforming loans. ... You pay dearly for nonconformity."

"Mortgages For Dummies" goes on to give the money-saving tip: "If you find yourself slightly over Fannie Mae's and Freddie Mac's limit, don't despair. You can either buy a slightly less expensive home or increase your cash down payment juuuuuuuust enough to bring your mortgage amount under the conforming loan limit." The "juuuuuuust enough" isn't my typo, although I probably got the number of u's wrong. It's Dummies' humor.

Today, "Mortgages For Dummies" Chapter 9, Refinancing Your Mortgage, will be popular. Tyson and Brown provide an example showing how quickly your refinancing will breakeven. They give us "Refinancing's Magic Formula" to calculate if you should refinance.

"Mortgages For Dummies" doesn't formally introduce the annual percentage rate or APR, and I believe this is a critical oversight. (The book does mention APR in its glossary). So, you might be quoted 7.2% and not realize this rate doesn't take into consideration points and fees you will pay, i.e. it's not the APR. Suppose your current mortgage rate is 8% (APR), you might quickly calculate that you save (neglecting tax effects) 8 - 7.2 = 0.8% on the principal loan amount. This would be incorrect, because your actual APR would likely be higher than 7.2% due to the added fees. You really need to distinguish between the fee-inclusive rate and the fee-exclusive rate you might be quoted.

Overall, I think reading "Mortgages For Dummies" is useful for people who are buying their first home or considering refinancing an existing home. Enough dollars at stake that you should pursue all information on the topic and become an informed consumer, even if you need to tolerate some siiiiily jokes.

Peter Hupalo, Author of "Becoming An Investor"

Great Book for mortgage buyers
If you are contemplating buying a home, then this book is a must. Everthing is in here. So complete.

I followed this advice in buying my own home. It works and samed me a bundle.

By contrast, I tried to follow advice in JBQ's book and found that most was outdated and the rest was ineffective.

Extremely helpful in getting our mortgage
I read this book shortly before we signed to build a home, and I can't say how helpful it has been. Knowing how mortgages work (especially ARMs) and the right questions to ask has definitely changed the treatment we have received from various mortgage companies. We ended up going with our builder for financing and after dealing with them, I get the impression that a lot of people DON'T read up on mortgages and just take whatever is offered. Don't just trust the mortgage companies to give you the best deal - read this first and arm yourself for negotiating!

Do not go Home buying without reading this first !!!!!
This book has done a great job in explaining and putting in simple, understandable words all the mortgage techicals and jargon. The mortage offical that originated my loan application was amazed at how much i knew about the matter (if she only knew). Seriously, if you want to get the deal that benefits you the most, then get this book and save hundreds and maybe thousands on closing costs and interest rates during the life of your loan. It will only cost you $16.99 and some little time to read and understand. Hope your have a great deal!!! ... Read more

Book Description

The second title in the Power Tips series, Power Tips for Selling a House for More, by best-selling author Robert Irwin, pinpoints tactics and strategies homeowners should use for getting optimum results when selling their homes. From handling multiple offers to persuading agents to work hard for half the commission, Bob Irwin provides a complete trouble-shooting guide to disclosures, with crucial advice on listing house sales on the Internet.

More specific than the author’s previous best-seller, Tips & Traps When Selling Your Home, this new book puts a powerful emphasis on getting the highest price, terms, and costs, with the lowest liability. Power Tips for Selling a House for More is a must-have resource for sellers who want the best deal possible. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Tons of practical information
I am planning to sell my house soon and I got about a dozen books on the subject. This one was the best of the bunch (second, believe it or not, was the "Dummies" book!). There is very basic info (curb appeal, etc.) but also some excellent practical advice on timing, how to negotiate the sale, when to bend and when to hold firm. There may be a better book out there on the topic, but I haven't come across it.

Irwin has written numerous books on various aspects of real estate and he has a very good reputation for providing top-notch information and advice.

lots of useful information
This was probably the best of the 5 or so books I consulted. Not sure where the reviewer below is coming from; while the basics were covered, there were a number of savvy and sophisticated tips that would not occur to a first-time seller and that I did not see elsewhere. Chapters 6-10, on negotiations, were particularly useful.

bad advice???????
another waste of time. dont buy this book unless you are totally new to real estate.I dont return books as a practice but i am returning both books by this authur.I am a professional invester there are good books these are not them. ... Read more

Book Description

In the Make Money series, renowned real estate investor and bestselling author Gary W. Eldred shows you how to profit from the safest, most reliable wealth builder in the world–real estate. With coverage of all the fundamentals–from finding the right properties to financing and managing them–Eldred shows you the ropes so you don’t have to learn important lessons the hard way. Unlike general guides to investing in real estate, each title in the Make Money series gives you the specialized expertise necessary to fully profit from a select investment strategy.

Make Money with Small Income Properties shows you how to grow your fortune by purchasing and managing multi-unit rental properties–from duplexes to twenty-four-unit buildings. Compared to other real estate investments, small income properties offer higher returns, positive cash flows, and easy-qualifying seller financing. The expert guidance you’ll find here illustrates how you can boost property values and increase rent collections through effective and friendly management. This simple-to-follow guide offers the knowledge you need to find properties that will increase in value, manage them effectively (rule one: never think of yourself as a landlord), and maximize your profits. Make Money with Small Income Properties will show you how to:

• Purchase and profit from affordable rental properties
• Develop your entrepreneurial strategy
• Understand the economy and pick the right neighborhoods
• Size up the market and your competition
• Carve out a target market
• Accurately price properties
• Build equity fast with easy improvements
• Create ways to generate more income

Reviews (5)

Not your first real estate book, but very valuable
This book, as others have noted, is not about the mechanics of proceeding; it's no cookbook and doesn't outline the specific steps to implement a deal. Nor does it specify some mythical "one true strategy" you should follow. What it does, and does very well, is cover the entire spectrum of larger strategy issues that will distinguish the greater success of strategic thinkers from the blind-luck results of simple tactical implementers.
Who is this for? People who have read (or done) enough real estate that they don't need yet another book of the details. People who want (or need) to be reminded to think about the larger plan, where they are going, and how to optimize your strategy for best results. I'm a business strategist professionally, and I think this is well written and useful. Some of the people who appreciate it the least ("just do it" types who want to be handed simple answers) would benefit the most from this very good summary of real estate strategic thinking. It's true, you do need to dive in and "just go do it" to make RE work. But thinking about the issues in this book will probably make any RE campaign significantly *better*. Good luck, to each of you.

Create value, Increase net income
This is the second book I've read by Eldred. I like his style and thoughtful ideas. Unlike so many get rich in real estate books, Eldred seems to have his feet on the ground, yet he still demonstrates great ideas and techniques for buying, improving, and creating value for properties. This book does not cover "everything you need to know" (what book does?), but it does give you a unique and solid approach to investing smarter and more profitably.

Great book for beginners or pros
If you're thinking about investing in real estate, this book will give you a clear path to follow to maximize your profits. I found its strength both in its clearly written explanations as well as the tips and ideas on how to develop an improvement strategy. As a quick read that fully covers the basics, it's the best book on investing in small apartment buildings that I have read. True, as the reviewer below notes, you won't find a bunch of crazy "no credit, no cash" dealmaking tatics here. But you will find substantive content that distinguishes this author from others. Whether investing pro or amateur, I believe you'll come away from this book with insights that will really boost your return potential. I certainly did.

YAWN!
I have been purchasing rental houses for going on 2 years. If I had read this book first, I think I would have kept my money in the bank. Eldred makes me feel that real estate investing is way too complicated to even start. Granted, there are those writers who make it seem all too easy, but Eldred throws up so many cautions as to scare the average investor away.

He may tour the US giving seminars on investing, but the book seems to have been written for rich investors. He gives very little details on how to do a deal. He declines to outline his plan for the reason that every city is different. While this is in essence true, it would be helpful to an investor to have some plan, any plan upon which to start his or her real estate investing career.

I did glean some info from it, but that was because I was interested in a very narrow sphere of real estate. For that reason I gave it 2 stars.

Tons on information in a very readable form
As a seasoned investor, author and host of my own Real Estate Investment radio show, I read a lot of Real Estate related books and found this one to be a great addition to my library. It takes an approach that is different from many other books in that it suggests investment in multifamily properties. The author sets forth his reasons and then lays out the plan and approach one must take from initial research to actual management of the properties. While the answers to EVERY question are beyond the scope of any one book, the author covers just about every issue that might crop up as you build your real estate portfolio. If you are new to the industry, you will come away with an understanding of what you need to do to get started including creation of a plan. If you are an experienced investor, you will come away with tips and strategies on how to come away with more income and/or profit on every one of your investments through what the author refers to as strategic marketing. If you don't believe me, feel free to listen to his interview on The Real Estate Investor's Forum by logging on to voiceamerica.com ... Read more

Book Description

Finding wealth through real estate investing depends upon knowledge, a good plan, and building a team of advisors and mentors who can provide the expert guidance needed. By examining the three keys of successful real estate investing--selection, taxation, and protection--REAL ESTATE LOOPHOLES shows what it takes to make a real estate investment work. AUTHORBIO: Diane Kennedy lives in Phoenix, Arizona. Atty. Garrett Sutton lives in Reno, Nevada. ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Incomplete and confusing
This book was a quick read, but I found that I had more questions after reading the book than I did when I started. One of the primary thrusts of the book is to get asset protection through the use of corporate or limited partnership entities. Some of the techniques discussed in the book cannot be structured through a corporate entity without triggering adverse tax consequences. So what is a person to do? This book makes the most sense if you are -- or aspire to become -- a landlord. For more complicated situations -- or for varied approaches to working with real estate (such as flipping) -- I'm not sure what to do. I guess the bottom line is that you must get good advice from competent advisors who know your business. It's not a bad place to start, but the authors jump around alot, as not all "loopholes" apply to the traditional corporate structures that the authors push.

Loopholes that put cash in your pocket!
The book is a quick read, especially if you're into real estate and have read some RE books before. But the authors' writing style, makes it easy for investors of all levels to understand the concepts. The authors are of course two RichDad Advisors (Sutton and Kennedy) and they start out by saying that there are two types of real estate loopholes: tax and legal.

- From the tax standpoint, these are the loopholes that you want to open and use.

- From the legal standpoint, these are the loopholes that you want to close and make sure no one sues you.

Kennedy starts by going over basics of different ways that you can get into real estate, including a section on how to build your team. Then you get walked through how to create a real estate investing plan. It's pretty basic stuff, but very well done.

Then you get taken through the tax system (briefly) in the US and you get walked through the three types of income: earned, passive and portfolio. Real estate is obviously passive in most instances and this is where you want to concentrate your efforts.

You then get a look at seven of the legal deductions that a real estate investor can legally take. There are over 100 deductions, but she covered the main seven you should be concerned with.

Next up is Mr. Sutton who will take you through the legal strategies to protect your assets. He takes you through different types of insurance you should have and then gets to the good stuff: how you should hold your real estate. He takes you through the pros and cons of C corps, S corps, LLCs, LPs, general partnerships, and sole proprietorships. Most people don't think of this stuff until after they purchase a place, but it makes sense to plan ahead and protect yourself.

The last half of the book is how to analyze properties, make the offer, do a title search, and watch the cash flow come in.

The book is filled with some good stories and examples that keep you moving through the book. It will definitely motivate you and make you feel like "I can do this stuff." Which is a great result from a book. I think it's a must-read for the budding RE investor.

Real Estate Loopholes is obviously a RichDad Advisors book so it will sell millions of copies regardless of what's in it, but it's worth the buy. I just wish they had worked with Dolf DeRoos and put his book Real Estate Riches together with this one and made a really great book instead of one good one (this one) and one awful one (DeRoos').

Good for starters so you can talk the talk with your lawyer
The concepts in the RichDad series book Rich Dad, Poor Dad are basic concepts. It was a book to introduce the reader that working hard your whole life is not the way to create real wealth. In Real Estate Loopholes, the concepts for investing in real estate are pretty much the same amount of detail as in RDPD. It's a short read intended to give the reader some surface level knowledge of real estate tax advantage and legal issues to avoid by setting up LPs and LLPs. By reading this book, I'm able to ask more intelligent questions for my real estate attorney.

I'd say that it's a worthwhile read, but only if you are starting out in real estate investment and are going to be working with an attorney so you can ask follow up questions in forming your LLP that will be holding the real estate.

Worth it's weight in GOLD for the new real estate investor !
I read this book before I read the Amazon reviews. I was shocked at some of the negative comments. My recommendation is to read all of the how-to real estate books you want. When you finally decide you're going to invest, buy this book. It will save you money and headaches. If nothing else it will give you a basic understanding of ownership options and tax benefits (loopholes) that you can then discuss with a lawyer and accountant. Know what you're getting in to before you make your first offer to buy. It is the only real estate book that I am 100% satisfied with. Good luck!

Real Estate Loopholes: Secrets of Successful Real Estate Inv
E-book would not allow you to print pages for review. Difficult to read on-line. Would not purchase e-books again unless it allows an option to print out certain selected pages. Content of the book was very beneficial. ... Read more

Book Description

The experts agree: REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) should be a part of every serious investor's diversified portfolio. All the essentials are there—low volatility, consistent and steady profits, impressive dividends, convenient liquidity, low correlation with other asset classes and, most importantly, professional management—yet to take advantage of this investment vehicle, understanding the unusual features and performance characteristics of REITs is key. Investing in REITs—Revised & Updated Edition is an enlightening, practical look at what REITs are, how they work, what properties they own, and why they deserve an important place in any diversified investment portfolio. Ralph Block's classic is newly updated to reflect all the latest changes in the industry. Block provides cogent analysis of what is unique about REITs and cuts to the chase on how to make money with them while avoiding common pitfalls. Succinct, informative, and user-friendly in its layout and presentation, this guide makes the world of REITs accessible to all investors.

This essential guide offers: • The ABCs of successful REIT investment • How to spot blue-chip REITs • A concise history of REITs and how they compare to other investments • How to build a diversified REIT portfolio • REIT mutual fund opportunities and performance • Important new developments and strategies in the REIT industry, including specific sectors of real estate, asset recycling, and joint venture strategies • And much more ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Good introduction, but...
While the book serves well as an introduction to the sector, it devotes a mere single chapter, the last, to what could go wrong. What a missed opportunity.

The author could have brought the caveats of REIT investing to life by using more real world examples, even some drawn from real world SEC statements.

The author spends an inordinate time selling the idea of investing in the sector. My guess is people who reach for this book are already interested or even invested in REITs, and are looking for help in navigating the potential minefields.

The book needs a second edition, to bring it more current.

Per KPA's 10k, President Clinton signed a new law Dec 99 that allows a REIT to own up to 100% of stock in a taxable subsidary. How does this impact paired share reits? What will be the long term impact of this legislative change on the REIT landscape?

A good effort, yet one that can be improved upon.

Block gives a lucid, educational and humorous view of reits.
Ralph Block shows the way through the morass of FFOs, AFFOs and P/AFFOs to the basic concepts of reits. I like his clairty; he speaks to me by written word, yet as if one- to-one.The entire subject matter (which at first approach seems incredibly dry) sparkles with Block's wit. I read the book and came away reit-knowledgeable as well as entertained!

In these days of plummeting stocks (and reits are in there falling, too), this book helps me prepare for the time when I will want to sink some money into real estate the easier, cheaper way.

Some fundamental financial problems with this book...
The book is an easy to understand introduction.

Yes, Quality REITs can be a very good addition to one's portfolio as the book states.
But the book is a little biased, because one of the fundamentals
of modern portfolio theory is Risk vs Reward.
Yet this book has only 1 chapter (out of 12) discussing
the risks of REITs - and even in that chapter the risks
are down played somewhat.

Yes, REITS can be a great investment true, but the book doesn't give the complete picture.

A great Introduction
Ralph has done a great job of leading the new REIT investor through the tangle of understanding REITs from their humble inception in 1960 through 2001. He does a good job of explaining why things have happened as they have, and to build our