Invest In Texas Realty?

Question

Has anyone here worked with this company before?  
http://investintx.com
I first learned about them when they were here in Los Angeles last year for the Learning Annex Real Estate Expo.  I am looking for an investment rental property in Houston and they're in the area and so I'm wondering if anyone has used them before.  If not, is there any good experienced Realtor you guys can recommend?  Thanks.

Misty McMillan · Answer

I agree. Most agents do not know what an investor needs or how to work with them. You need to make sure that you find an agent that has experience with investors as you guys are a different animal. You usually need to find an agent that got in the business by investing themselves, which is how I became one.

Never heard of that company so I can't help you there. And I live in Northern Texas, so can't help you with that either, however, I always recommend working with an agent verses a company that finds investment properties just because an agent may work on commission, but they are looking with you in mind, a company is looking to move their own properties, or properties that they have some sort of connection with and you may be passing by a great opportunity next door, but would never know it unless you had a person looking at the whole picture and not just their interest. An agent wants to get paid, but wants there client to be happy and a repeat customer as well.

Will Barnard · Answer

I have visited their website a few times to investigate what they offer as well as look for information. I have not personally done business with them, but they seem to be on the right path. I did notice that a large majority of the investments are pre-owned and not new. That worries me as an investor during these times. Cash flow is definately the way to gothese days and repairs/maintenance would cut into that. I prefer new construction or only 1-3 years new. This way, you get a builders warranty and on the re-sold new ones, a 1-2 year warranty is also commonly negotiated.
I started out in San Antonio several years ago (when starting in TX) and am now working a majority of my deals in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area (Fort Worth in prticular). Multi-family units are the way to go as the rental market is very strong here as is the job growth.
Realtors are an essential part of your team, but be very cautious and remember how they get paid! A large majority of them are useless, speaking from the investor point of view, as they have little or no knowledge/experience. This is not to say that all Realtors are bad, simply to shed light on the situation.
Good luck in your investment career and make sure you get educated. Read books, attend club meetings, speak with mentors, and work with professionals who have a proven track record!