BiggerPockets

I have been a member of BP now for about 2 weeks and I have to say that the information is in great abundance here. That is sort of my problem. I am taking all of this information in, but I think I am trying to take it in too fast and need a little advice on where to start. Too many niches that I didn't realize existed.
I am looking to learn a little more about buying properties before they hit the MLS as an REO. My father and I have flipped a few houses already and fared well buying them as REO, but we can do better. I did not understand some of the aspects of real estate until I came here to BP.
Any advice as to where I might start putting together this information so I can act with my two feet forward? I want to learn more I just need to be pushed in the right direction.
Any books or other information I can use would be appreciated. Thanks again Everyone, I appreciate the advice.
Jason

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Hey Jason,
I'm working on the same thing. What I have found in this area is that you won't get any REO before they hit the MLS if they are coming from the big national banks. Best bet is to start forming relationships with small local banks and see how they handle their foreclosures. The other route is to form relationships with some of the REO agents that handle the big bank REOs to at least get some advance notice (I haven't had luck with this but others have).
Small world, I lived on your side of the river in Holiday Shores and worked at Winchester so I drove through Bethalto everyday.
Good luck

I agree with Steve's statement and to add, it is not dependant upon the bank, but your contacts and relationships that make the difference.

Mike,
Yeah it is a small world. My fiance and mom work down at Olin as well. My father and I have a good relationship with a few banks in the area so I know we have a few options to address there. I am just wanting to learn the right things that will help me understand this niche business. Rehabbing is my thing, but I would like to understand different options for purchasing before the home falls into the REO category. I am learning and have tons of information with BP and books that I have purchased to help me get the know how I need. It just is alot to try to decipher in the beginning, but I feel like everyday I am learning more and more. Everyone that I have asked a question to here on BP has been awesome.
My other issue is that I am kind of partnering in this business with my dad to start, and he has an agent that he has used in the past personally that he has approached to help him find some properties for us. I dont want to cut him out but I feel like I can find the properties just as quick as he can if I do my research. I know who the different REO listing agents in the area are. I just need to get past the point of making the buyers agent happy every time and getting the deals the best I can for our business. We will get there though.
Harrison, Thanks for the advice. I know that it is hard work and not easy but if you strive for something and don't give up until you have it, anything is possible.
Appreciate all of your information and support.
Thanks