Buying a distressed property from an experienced investor

Buying a distressed property from an experienced investor

NJ · Member since 2018 · 3 posts · 0 votes

Hi BP community. I'm looking at a distressed one family property that needs renovations, including a new roof.  I like the location: emerging neighborhood, close to public transit. This would be a live-in flip, and would probably use a 203K renovation loan to finance the major upfront repairs to make it habitable. So, I'd have to live there for at least 1 year and continue to renovate and repair. The hope would be to rent it out after all said and done, and probably conservatively get $2K a month in rent. If it doesn't cash flow, then we'd probably sell. I know an investor purchased the property about 4 months ago for $150K and now has it listed for $230K, which is close to what it'd probably get if in good condition. I have yet to tour the property, but my guess is that they haven't done any work and they're just trying to get rid of it. So, knowing this, what concerns should I have? And, if I decide to make an offer, why wouldn't I just offer $150K? Curious to hear people's thoughts are, and I'm sure there are more numbers that folks would like to know, but I'm mostly interested in what people think about the circumstances. Basically, is this a sign the property is a lemon, and should I steer clear? Why would an investor turn around and sell that soon without making improvements? 

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Guy with Great Hair · Austin, TX · Member since 2013 · 2k+ posts · 4k+ votes
8y

if an experienced investor passes on it, I want to know EXACTLY why. Why is someone who is good at this passing it on to someone who hasn't done it before, while telling them how good a deal it is.

Your BS meter should be pinging.

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  • Rental Property Investor · Chandler AZ and Sylvania, OH · Member since 2009 · 708 posts · 561 votes
    8y

    If the repaired value of the property is 230K and he is listing his non rehabbed for the same, then clearly that price is not going to work and he's not going to be able to sell it.  He bought it in Jersey in the middle of winter and got a discount, now in the summer buying season he is trying to get a profit, makes sense to me.  I think you should approach this like you would if the seller is not an investor, do your due diligence and make an offer that works for you.  Definitely walk the property and maybe bring a contractor or inspector with you.  Might worth the $50-$100 consulting fee that they may charge.

  • NJ · Member since 2018 · 3 posts · 0 votes
    8y

    Hi @StoneJin. Thanks for that suggestion. I think it would be worth the consulting fee. Good point about the seasons too.

  • Specialist · Riverside, CA · Member since 2015 · 6k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    8y

    They could have too much on their plate, but treat it like any other property make sure your numbers are correct

  • Guy with Great Hair · Austin, TX · Member since 2013 · 2k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    8y

    if an experienced investor passes on it, I want to know EXACTLY why. Why is someone who is good at this passing it on to someone who hasn't done it before, while telling them how good a deal it is.

    Your BS meter should be pinging.

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