All Forum Posts by: Erin Stephens

That site is where I found the names of h current owners, but it lists the vacant property​ as their mailing address​. Thanks, though!

Hello! Newish investor in the Baltimore area. Haven't been having much luck getting offers accepted off the MLS (single family for rental) so I've started looking for off-market deals. There is a vacant home around the corner from me and I am planning on mailing the owner (and the owners of some local houses that look unkempt). I found the names of the owners of the vacant property. My thought was to send a letter to them at the vacant property with "address service requested" on the envelope to see if I can get an updated address for the owner. Does this sound like a reasonable place to start? Thanks for any advice! -Erin

Wanted to pipe in with my sympathies. I live in Baltimore, and some areas are just rough. Nothing you can do, personally, to fix it, and I wouldn't recommend trying for your own safety.

Agree that the police are the appropriate contact point, but they haven't been doing as much since the riots. 

Wow, what a difference! I bet the neighbors are your new best friends, fixing up an eyesore like that :)

*cash flow

Not tax flow. 

Hello!

I am just getting started and thought I found a good first rental property. Of course, now there's a problem. 

Historically, the taxes on this (recently-foreclosed) property were about $1,500/year. Last year they were over $4,000 due to a $3,200 sewer tax. We suspect either a leak or the old owners left water running when they vacated. 

From what I understand, that huge tax last year will raise the tax I have to pay at closing. My real estate agent believes the tax will drop back to the historical level. I am worried the taxes will stay crazy high and destroy my tax flow. 

Anyone have this experience? I'm in Baltimore, if that helps. Should I pass on this property?

Thanks!
-Erin