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All Forum Posts by: Jay Chang

Jay Chang has started 17 posts and replied 146 times.

Hello, first-time mutual fund investor! It's excellent that you're thinking about investing. The answer to your question about under-construction properties is a bit mixed.

On the plus side, buying a house before it is completed can be less expensive, and you may profit from potential value appreciation. However, there may be some disadvantages. Because construction delays are common, you may have to wait longer than expected. Furthermore, you will not begin receiving rental money until the property is ready, which may take some time. Being an out-of-state investor adds another layer of complexity. You'll need to hire someone local to manage the property, which will cut into your profits.

My recommendation? An under-construction property can be a terrific deal if you're willing to be patient and financially prepared for unexpected delays. Just make sure you do your homework, investigate the location, and have a great property management plan in place. Remember that real estate investing is a long game, so don't go in too quickly.

Take your time, learn the ropes, and, above all, have fun on your quest to become a wise investor!

Post: Renovation Loan Options

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

Hey, congratulations on starting out into real estate investing. There are a few renovation loan options to consider.

The standard Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is the first option. If you own a property or can borrow one from your parents, you can use the equity to fund your renovations. It's adaptable and typically has lower interest rates, but keep in mind that you're using your property as collateral, so there's some risk. Personal loans are another possibility. They do not require collateral because they are unsecured, however the interest rates may be higher.

In today's market, 8% is a reasonable rate for construction financing. The interest rate on most construction loans is P+1%. The prime rate is denoted by the letter P.

They're perfect for minor repairs or if you don't own a property yet. Another option is a 203(k) loan. These are specifically designed for home improvements and are FHA-insured. They may need more paperwork, but they can be an excellent option if you're trying to buy a fixer-upper. Finally, consider obtaining a construction loan. These are designed for home building or renovation. They are best suited for larger projects and have variable interest rates.
It is vital to comparison shop and compare rates and terms.

Remember that a competent team is crucial in the world of real estate investing. Best wishes, and good luck with your investments!
It is vital to comparison shop and compare rates and terms.

Hello there, fellow wannabe investor! Creating positive cash flow in a high-interest market can be difficult, but it is entirely possible. Here's the skinny:

First and foremost, concentrate on the appropriate types of investments. Rental homes are a good investment since they provide constant income. Do your research to discover homes with high cash flow potential. The location is critical. Look for places where there is a high demand for rentals and room for rent hikes. A hot market can work in your favor in this case. Run the numbers with caution.

Make sure the rent you can charge covers your mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. A positive cash flow indicates that you are earning more money than you are spending on the property. Another critical issue is financing. Shop around for the best loan interest rates. Lower interest rates might have a substantial influence on your ability to generate positive cash flow.

Be patient and use your money properly. It may take some time to earn a profit in some cases. Prepare for initial expenses or reduced rent prices, but with a strong plan and study, your cash flow will eventually become positive.

Starting early is a huge advantage, my friend. Continue to learn, seek advice from experienced investors, and keep in mind that slow and steady wins the race. You can do it!

Post: Find Multi-Family opportunities

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

Hello there! First and foremost, congratulations on your desire to enter the world of real estate investing. Let's go on to finding multi-family options.

Doing your homework is a great place to start. Investigate several markets and areas to determine which have high potential for multi-family housing. Look for places that have strong job growth, outstanding schools, and low crime rates; these are usually favorable signs. Consider networking next.

Attend real estate investment meetups, participate in online forums, and talk with seasoned investors.

Creating a network can provide access to off-market deals and important advice. When it comes to financing, you may want to look into FHA loans or house hacking. FHA loans provide a lower down payment requirement and can be a suitable option for your first home. House hacking is living in one apartment while renting out the others to pay your mortgage - an excellent way to get your feet wet. Don't forget to plan out your investment strategy. Do you want fixer-uppers or turnkey properties? What is your financial situation? A game plan will assist you in narrowing your possibilities.

Remember that Rome was not created in a single day. Be patient, learn from your mistakes, and adjust your strategy as needed. Good luck with your financial venture; you've got this!

Post: 4-plex property, 2 people on title

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

So you're thinking of getting into real estate investing with a 4-plex and two persons on the title? That's fantastic! Real estate can be an excellent way to accumulate money over time.

First and foremost, ensure that you and your co-investor are on the same page. Communication is essential. Discuss your objectives, expectations, and how you want to divide tasks and earnings. When it comes to real estate, location is key.

Probate sales require you to go to court to bid. There’s also no contingency when entering a probate sale, so make sure you do all your due diligence before signing the PSA and opening an escrow. Keep in mind that even when the escrow is opened, you’ll still need to bid the house in court, so there could potentially be one or more bidders who show up in court to bid against you.

Look for regions with growth potential, strong schools, low crime rates, and other characteristics that make a neighborhood appealing. It is also critical to conduct thorough research. Get an inspection, research the local rental market, and assess the property's prospective revenue and expenses.

Financing can be difficult, but there are numerous choices. You can get a regular mortgage or, if both of you are financially secure, consider pooling your resources. Don't overlook property management. Will you manage it yourself or hire a professional? Both have advantages and disadvantages, so examine your alternatives carefully.

Finally, be patient. Real estate is a long-term investment. It may take some time to see significant profits, but if you're wise and have a sound approach, it can be a wonderful investment. Best wishes on your trip, my buddy! You can do it!

Hello there, buddy! It's fantastic that you're considering a career in real estate and multifamily syndication. The ideal commercial real estate (CRE) agency to start your journey depends entirely on your individual goals and what you're looking for.

Consider a big-name brokerage business like CBRE, JLL, or Cushman & Wakefield if you want to obtain valuable expertise and network with established professionals. They offer excellent training programs and resources, yet they may be too competitive and demanding. Smaller boutique organizations, on the other hand, can be wonderful if you prefer a more customized approach and are willing to accept perhaps lower beginning commissions. They frequently provide tighter mentorship and the opportunity to get your hands dirty with diverse property kinds.

Look at area businesses as well. They can provide you with a good mix of resources and customized attention. Whatever brokerage you choose, concentrate on developing relationships and learning everything you can. After you've gained some experience, you can look into multifamily syndication.

Remember that becoming an investor is a journey that involves learning, growing, and connecting. So, get out there and soak up knowledge like a sponge, and you'll be fine! Best wishes!

Post: Replatting a house with a mortgage

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

Hello there, and congratulations on your eagerness to begin your trip. When it comes to re-planning a house with a mortgage, there are a few things to consider.

To begin, re-platting entails separating or merging pieces of land, which can have an impact on your mortgage. It's critical to verify with your lender to understand their policies on property boundary modifications. Some lenders may demand you to pay off your old mortgage and obtain a new one, but others may approve re-platting.

Consult with a real estate attorney or a financial expert to help you navigate the legal and financial sides of the re-plating procedure. They can assist you in complying with local zoning laws and restrictions. Remember that any changes to the layout or size of the property can affect its appraised value, which may affect your mortgage conditions. So, before you start re-planning, make sure you have a solid plan and a solid financial strategy in place. In the end, it all comes down to doing your study and speaking with your lender and other professionals who can help you navigate the process.

Good luck on your investing adventure, and do let me know if you have any further questions.

Post: Modular/prefab Home vs. Custom building options?

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

Hey, it's fantastic that you're considering real estate investing! There are advantages and disadvantages to choosing between modular/prefab homes and bespoke constructing.

Modular or prefab dwellings save time and money. They're similar to pre-built houses that can be installed on your property. Because building is more efficient, you save time and possibly money. Customization possibilities are restricted, and it may not be as distinctive as a custom-built home.

Custom building, on the other hand, allows you to create your own home from the ground up. Because you have complete creative freedom, it can be a representation of your vision. However, it usually requires more time and money. Design, permits, and construction can all be time-consuming, and unforeseen costs can arise. Consider your objectives and budget. Prefab homes may be the way to go if you need a rapid, cost-effective option, especially if you plan to rent or flip properties.

Custom building is a preferable option if you want to create a long-term personal residence or a one-of-a-kind luxury property. Remember that if done correctly, both options can be successful investments. Simply conduct your study, crunch the statistics, and assess your options. Best wishes on your investment path!

Post: Is Interest Rate on Construction Loan 8% Worth it?

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

Hello there, and congratulations on your decision to start investing in real estate.

Since there is no collateral (the house has not yet been built), construction loan rates are slightly higher than standard loan rates. This increases the likelihood of default, making lenders wary.

P+1% construction loans are common. P is the prime rate, which is currently approximately 9.5%, so P+1 would be 9.5 % right now. 8% is a reasonable interest rate. However, many banks do not now offer building loans and need 20% relationship deposits. You might look into a hard money loan with a rate of around 12%. The drawback is that it has a lot of fees, so if you can, stick with construction financing.

Construction loan interest rates can be fixed or variable, which means they fluctuate based on the index to which the rate is linked. Variable loans often begin with lower interest rates than fixed loans but can increase or drop monthly based on market rates. Construction loans are used to pay for only the construction of a dwelling. The overall loan balance becomes due after the construction is completed. You can either pay it off in full or get another loan (such as a standard mortgage) to cover the balance.

Keep in mind that if you do this and then take up a new mortgage to pay off the construction loan, you will be required to pay closing costs twice.

Post: Need advice on construction partners

Jay ChangPosted
  • Developer
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Posts 150
  • Votes 84

Hello, it's fantastic that you're considering becoming an investor! Finding the appropriate construction partners might mean the difference between a successful and unsuccessful real estate investment journey. Here are some pointers to get you started.

First and foremost, networking will be your best friend. Attend real estate meetups, participate in online forums, and network with other investors. These contacts can bring you to possible construction partners who are trustworthy and experienced. Architects and banks are also excellent ways to find construction partners. Do your research when you find potential companions. Examine their track record; have they executed projects similar to the one you're considering? Request references and speak with folks they've worked with.

It is critical to understand their work ethic and whether they deliver on time and on budget. Transparency is essential. Make sure your potential partners are clear about their charges and what they want from you. Discuss the financials, how earnings will be divided, and who will be

Also, before you start borrowing, make sure you have a strong renovation strategy in place. Best wishes on your investment path!