All Forum Posts by: Joseph Firmin
Joseph Firmin has started 22 posts and replied 942 times.
Post: real estate really tests how bad you really want it

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
@Jason Ma Yes, implement different strategies and test what works (text, direct mail, cold calling, etc). If you are clear and know what you want, it will come. Ensure you aren't going to broad in what you're looking for and get laser focused on what you want.
Post: Overlooked costs of renting a unit

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
@Matt J. You captured a lot of good ones. I'd add a tax increase YoY and inflation expense. Some cities have a tax estimator on their website to estimate the future taxes based off a purchase price.
Post: I own property in the US but live in Asia. Help.

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
@Travis Elliott You know what to do, you need a PM. Understandably, in the interim until you find and get the PM going, ask the PM if they can get their recommended contractor to perform the repairs in advance of you signing an agreement with the promise that if it goes well you will sign on. That could alleviate the immediate need for repairs as they will want your future business. On the eviction, I'm assuming you have an attorney handling it for you, if not, that would be ideal, despite the costs.
Post: Any good HELOCS for investment homes?

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
@Brian Stutzman Will send you a PM by the end of day (on phone now vs PC) since we cannot provide contact details on the forums. I know just the lender and can also recommend a strategy that could be a game changer for you.
Post: Google Voice as business phone or not?

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
@Tracy Cooper It is a perfectly fine way to get started if you are not a professional services provider. I'd recommend a real service if you are a FT manager, cleaning service or other, just more professional IMO, you don't have the "please hold while Google Voice connects you."
Post: How to find off-market deals

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
@Greg Koszkul @Kelly Skeval mentioned the social piece, but ensure you are specific. If you are looking for vacant SFH in a specific neighborhood, then say that. Get crystal clear on what you're looking for and then spread the word! You can use propstream, listsource, and many other resources to get info and start a campaign, but it's an easy one to tell your Network.
Post: How should I invest 35k?

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
You could partner with someone who does have the W2 or deal and just provide the capital - get part of the deal equity. You could also invest it in a syndication or with an online lender like Groundfloor.
Post: Trying To Save This Deal !!!

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
That is a great strategy and a HML will be fine with it, they'll get their points and interest. The conventional lender will be good with it sicne you'll have stabilized income and situation to feel comfortable about lending. If you feel comfortable with using an HML and the terms are right for your financial situation - go for it.
Post: So What is a Good Deal?

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
Not sure I understand your question... Are you asking if a new build in a good city/neighborhood if a good deal given the potential appreciation and tax benefits, tenant payments, etc? My answer would be - it depends on your strategy. There is more speculation in that type of purchase. I invest for cash flow and see appreciation as icing on the cake, but that is me at this time in my life. For you a good deal could look differently, depends on your risk level, strategy and ultimately - your goals.
Post: Homes in a package deal

- Rental Property Investor
- Smyrna, GA
- Posts 974
- Votes 645
You bet, let me know if you have any other questions about it. A local credit union sometimes is your best bet.