All Forum Posts by: Jonathan Thrasher

There are many ways people find deals on homes before they hit the MLS. I'm still new to all this so I'm sure I'll miss some. But here are some that I know of...

Word of mouth
Auctions
Direct Mail letters
Driving around looking for abandoned properties
Knocking on doors

glass block is great.  Here's my bathroom that I just remodeled.  

Hey @Dan Miles,  I feel ya.  Sometimes it's hard to keep that motivation.  Whenever I feel this way I listen or watch a BP podcast or two, even if I've watched it before.   

I have a glass block window in my shower and I love it because it lets so much natural light in.   The actual window is there on the exterior to keep the original look to the house,  but on the inside it's glass block.  That would be the option I would choose.   

@Robert Blanchard thanks! I am a member of an REI group here in Grand Rapids so I have a good network of people I can connect with there.

My biggest problem is just trying to figure out how to first approach him and what to say or how to say it in a way where it can be a win/win.   I'll have to see if he really wants to put all the money into it himself.  

So I don't know why this didn't occur to me until today but I had an epiphany. My neighbors have spleen saying they want to sell their house for over a year now.  The other day we were talking again and he told me how much they owe on it but said he has a lot of work left to do on it before he sells.  So it occurred to me today, why don't I try and buy it?  This would accomplish a few things.  Give me my first income property, potentially increase my property value and best of all, get rid of my neighbors and their annoying super loud motorcycles.

I know the house needs exterior work.  Probably a new roof, and definitely siding.  I have never seen the inside.  I know from talking with him that he thinks his home is worth way more than it is in its current condition.  So....how can I approach him?  Obviously I would need to see the inside to get an idea of how much really needs to be done.   Then somehow make an offer that isn't offensive and helps him not have to do any more work. 

Thanks for any advice!

welcome @Account Closed! I'm also in Grand Rapids and just getting started myself.  There are quite a few of us here from GR. Lots of great people to learn from and network with.  You've come to the right place. 

Welcome @Sharnell James. There is a REI group that meets here in GR the second Monday of every month at Buffalo Wild Wings on 44th st. @Brandon Krieg and @Michael Lerchorganize it.  It's a great opportunity to connect with other local investors.  There is also a local RPOA (rental property owners association) that has gatherings and conferences.  Their free annual conference is coming up this weekend actually.  

@David Miner, no I haven't.  I'm not sure I understand the difference. 

paint the brick whet or white wash it, but leave the hearth as is.