All Forum Posts by: Allen Maris

@Account Closed , @Account Closed , @Tyler Cabrera

Having just taken (and passed) my test a week ago in LA, I can tell you that Real Estate Express taught me CA license requirements. They obviously tailor each state to meet the needs.

There wasn't one question on the test about homestead, but a few about community property for sure.

Hi Irwin,

I've talked to a few termite experts in LA for one property. Not sure how it is there, but I'd assume a subterranean termite is a subterranean termite. (I'm sure someone will correct me on this!)

The overwhelming response I received was you can do sprays on the exposed wood, try to remove the food source (use composite) or do ground treatments to create a perimeter. They all said nothing other than removing all food is a complete solution, you just have to keep re-treating every year or two, depending on how persistent.

Allen

Thanks, Ron.

If anyone happens to know, that would be great, thanks. I took an online class so not a lot of info to be found from them.

Nope, the standard license class covers all your requirements.

Hi Everyone, hopefully someone can help clear up some questions for me...

I just passed the salespersons exam. I'm more interested in using it for MLS access and to help with my investing.

A couple questions for anyone that wouldn't mind helping out...

1. It was a year since I applied for the license so they sent me a follow up form, (FL450S) to verify my info. I can't find any instructions about this form online. It asks me if my employing broker is still going to be (it's blank). There's an option to check "I do not intend to be employed by a broker". I will at some point soon, but I'm not 100% sure I know whom it's going to be. I'm hoping by checking that "not intending to be employed..." box that this will get me into the system and then I can just update that info once I know. Thoughts?

2. I have friends that are brokers and member of Realtors in LA or Northern CA, but I want MLS access for central CA. Can I work under either of them yet join Realtor chapter in my area? Will it be double fees, one set for his location and one set for my location?

3. Since the MLS access now covers state wide, is it just one fee and I can do anything in the state or will I be limited to only his area?

Thanks!

Allen

Hi James,

You're in a tough situation for sure. Ultimately I'd assume your sister is going to get upset when you ask her to start paying rent. She's come to expect free rent and now that you need to tell her to do so, I'm assuming she's not going to like it very much. The only thing you can do is sit her down, explain your financial situation and that you're now paying for her rent for her and it's causing you a lot of problems. Then it becomes what's more important, your financial health or your relationship with your sister. One is going to suffer more than the other. She won't like it very much either if you lose her house because you can't afford to pay the mortgage anymore. Then she's going to be out a place to live and she's going to have to pay market rent.

Good luck to you!

Allen

Hi Jennifer,

I live in CA and have property in 2 different states. Both require filing with the state the property is in. Your CPA/tax prep person should be able to tell you specifics.

Allen

Hi Jay,

Without knowing what you've done so far, the first thing is to layout the financial package for them on paper so they can see what you're asking for, what you project and where those numbers came from. There are some forms on here that give a mini-financial statement of sorts.

Sounds like a great prospect.

Allen

Well it's great to hear about everyone's success stories, but anyone interested in posting about their not so success stories?

I'm sure everyone could learn some valuable lessons. As they say, those are the ones you never forget!

Here's mine:

My very first investment. Jumped in without knowing a thing. Thankfully I've learned a lot since then. How many mistakes did I make?

1. Followed the crowd. Went into a "hot" area and way too late of course.

2. Counted on appreciation instead of cash flow and the basic fundamentals.

3-100+. Too many to list.

I use Desert Wide and have had pretty consistent results. Their prices are a bit high for maintenance, but knowing its done and I'm not getting ripped off makes it worth it. They do a pretty good job of renting too, usually less than a few weeks vacancy.

(no affiliation to these guys other than them managing sfr for me)