All Forum Posts by: Douglas Burns

@Mark Updegraff Let's do it! I'll message you after Christmas.

Hey Mark - I use Jan Chisholm from Lawrence Associates based on recommendations I found on BP. So far, all of the policies have been written through Wayne Cooperative.  Their rates are good, and Jan's service is excellent.

@Nicholas Giordano I was in the same position in 2015. I lived in Westchester, and wanted to invest in the general NYC area, but the numbers just weren't working. I started looking at Rochester for investment, went to visit, really liked it, and eventually moved there. If you have any interest in Rochester, just search on BP for posts about neighborhoods and property managers. I know there are a number of them. You may also want to check out the BP Rental Property Calculator and/or some of the spreadsheets in the "FilePlace" for calculating cashflow. Be sure that you're covering property management, vacancy repairs, etc. and also lawn care and snow removal if it's a MF.

@Ray I. The Monroe County Clerk website is also good for finding mortgages, deed transfers, lis pendens, etc. Also, if you search for the Your Town + "Final Assessment Roll" you can usually find a PDF with some additional info on all the properties. Here's the 2016 Greece Assessment Roll.

She's going to write up a contract like this, which you will then sign. This is the offer. If the seller accepts they will sign.

Hi Brian,

I'm over in Fairport. Are you planning to invest around here?

Doug

I've lived in Tampa (USF area and Carrollwood) and more recently, DC (Dupont / Logan circle area), so I know where you're coming from!

I've seen lots of good things about the Tampa real estate market lately, and have been thinking about a vacation rental down there myself.

It's a great area. Good luck with your search!

If the numbers work out given the up front FHA fees and PMI, then it's a great option. I believe the minimum down is 3.5% for an FHA loan.

Zillow reports how accurate Zestimates are compared with actual selling prices here: http://www.zillow.com/zestimate/ It varies by region. Based on my experience in Washington DC, Westchester County NY and Monroe County NY, they have been fairly accurate. I wouldn't rely on them solely, but if you take them into account with comps (from your agent or Redfin), plus some common sense, I think they provide pretty good guidance.

I've used Dave Tontarski for 2 purchases (1 multifamily, 1 single family). He's been great. Responds quickly, super thorough, and provides an extremely detailed reports following the inspection. If you have access to Angie's List you can find a bunch of reviews there.

http://www.ahahomeinspections.com