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John,

Are you the same fellow that is seattlegogetter?

The picture is the same.

Yes, I use MySQL as the database. (I used to use PostGres).

I do not use "pre-canned" applications like Excel, or Act, very much, because for me it is just as easy to program it myself, and of course, I get exactly what I want. As for low-level tools, I use mostly Bourne Shell to program. I have used C, as well, and I am starting to program in PHP.

Right now, I am just starting with real estate, so I do not have too much CRM to do. As I grow I will probably integrate desktop programs (like MS Office, or OpenOffice, or Applix), to use MySQL as a backend, but this is only to make it easier for employees, or helpers.

For data entry, and retrieval, usually a web interface to the database works fine, and likewise a shell program, or curses-style interface.

For printing flyers, and addressing direct mail pieces, I use PostScript, and shell scripts I write to create the output.

I am in South Florida, and I can say that this state makes a lot of public record info available in electronic format at the state, county, and municipal level, usually free, and available on the net.

My website is simple, but seems to be working. Of course as I grow it will become a richer site.

I can't post it here yet, but the name is the same as my handle here on this forum.

If nothing else, being able access and process public records electronically, can help give a better picture as to the true value of a property, and likewise become aware of liabilities like liens and things.

Cheers.
FLAREAUCTION

Hello.

I am investing in South Florida by Tax Sales, Foreclosure, and other distress situations.

I do have a website, and will post it her when I get to 10.

Here in South Florida, a huge caveat is municipal code enforcement fines and liens.

A city or county will fine you up to $250.00 per day for not having your property in order.

A buyer incurs these liens.

Be Careful.

FLAREAUCTION

When I acquire a property, I sell it on my website in addition to e-bay, Yahoo, and by direct mail, and classifieds.

I am also considering e-mail marketing, but no one likes spam.

I will post my website here when I pass the 10 mark.

I print my own flyers with color and black and white printers, ( I use two passes, once through a color inkjet, then through a laser.) I use the laser to print the text, and mailing address of the recipient, and color for photos.

I use Linux, MySQL, and Bourne Shell to do most of my programming, and run the printers.

I get data from public records, then process it to find properties and potential buyers.

I also use these techniques to do "Comp Reports".

It works well.

Best of Luck to all.
FLAREAUCTION.

If you live in Seattle, try an attorney named Raymond J. Walters.

He is a complete P.O.S. but NOD is what he does.

Also the King County Court house has an excellent staff, and a good case file search system.

The Notice of default will be filed in the Civil Department. If public notice is given, it will be published in a newspaper with a name like "Daily Business Review/Journal", or something like that.

Basically you go to the courthouse (maybe every day, or a few times a week), and search the files for the latest foreclosure filings.

The staff can help you search by case type.

Best of luck.