Sink hole issues in neighborhoods

[Robert Sarno]

We are buy and hold investors on the west coast of Florida (Pasco County). As with many areas in the country there are sink hole problems throughout different areas. Does anyone have advice as to how far away to stay from specific addresses that signify past permits to fix sinkhole, or potential ground settlement, issues. I know the insurance industry stopped the sink hole claims around 2011 (at least in Florida) due to an abuse of the repair privilege. As far as I can tell the "abuse" took place from 2007-2011. So homes that had permits pulled during this time may be only "cracks in driveways". We find good investment homes and when I search the permits in the vicinity I often find homes nearby that have current or past permits for ground settlement. So far, I have ruled out the home but was wondering if I'm missing out on good investment homes. How close should I be concerned? Thanks for your inputs.

[Jeff Morelock]

Buying sinkhole homes from banks is a big part of my company's business. (I live in Pasco) You just need a good sinkhole repair firm with an on-staff engineer. 

Its not for everyone, but if you buy and rent a properly repaired sinkhole house can be a goldmine.