All Forum Posts by: Mike Tooley

Heather,

My wife and I are in a very similar situation as your family. We have started paying down our debt per Dave Ramsey's Snowball effect.

One thing that was recommended to us was The Grocery Game. The grocery items they list each week on sale, combined with coupons have cut our grocery bill by over 60%. I feed my family of four every night for about $5.00! Last night I calc'd it out and it was $5.30! Six months ago I would go to the store and spend $20-$30 bucks for one night and not think anything of it.

The "list" is free for the first four weeks, and then they charge you a fixed amount based on how many "lists" you buy. I think each list is 63 cents? You'd be amazed how many FREE things are available (especially CVS).

It's actually become a competition between my wife and I to see how much we can save on our grocery bill! Check it out for free at www.thegrocerygame.com. Start clippin' those coupons!!

Hope this helps!

Just curious, are you doing deals just in California or are you going out of state?

If CA, what areas?

RSMeans puts out several estimating books. Some are pretty pricey though. The one I have ($25 bucks) is titled, "Interior Home Improvement Costs". They also have one for exterior improvements. In the back of the book they have a section for adjusting the cost based on your location.

Not a bad book for rough estimates. I used it alot when I was in construction.

It's actually called SHIFT. Just came out a couple of months ago. Haven't read it though.

I did just buy The Millionaire REI! So far it seems like an excellent book!

I found it interesting that the contact for this company was in London??

I just purchased The Millionaire Real Estate Investor by Gary Keller.

Although I'm only into the first few chapters, it seems like an excellent resource. Very motivating for a newbie!

Will,

I'm looking into The Naked REI Club and there is another one that meets at the Doubletree in the City of Orange. I've seen others, but these two look the most promising. If you know of some good ones please let me know!!

Thanks Will

Hey Mark!

I feel like I'm in the same boat as you. With soooo much info out there to read/learn, it's hard to make a decision on which method to use. I feel like I've learned a little bit about everything....but have done NOTHING! It can be very frustrating at times. I feel like the clock is ticking and I wanna get my feet wet.

I'm looking forward to going to some REI club meetings in the area and getting a "push" from other investors!

Good luck!

Great idea! I'm looking into RE investment clubs in Orange County.

Thanks for the advice!

From a contractors point of view, I would say, "No". I would never turn down a chance to make money whether my client is a newbie or a seasoned pro.

Just beware that there are some contractors out there that will take advantage of you. I'm sure this also may apply to CPA's too.