All Forum Posts by: Nick Rutkowski

What seems like the end of days for some is an opportunity for others. Thanks for your experience, it’s true not everyone is a winner. For those of you who are new and reading this - use this as an example of what could happen if you don’t succeed.

Welcome to BP! I live in the middle of Syracuse and Ithaca. Let’s get in touch if you’re interested in investing Upstate or if you know some people who might be.

Think outside the box. There are a few main reasons why people will sell their homes. You need to figure out where those people are. How much of a community person are you? Ever thought about tabling at an event or be a part of a parade? Door to door, walk the busiest streets in your city passing out your business card. (Get the necessary permits if needed) Do you go on those 1 on 1 group blind dates where no one knows anyone? How many of those people are divorced and still own their house with their ex? Nursing homes and older people...do you get the point? The possibilities are endless, some are kinda fun too. Just because you’re taught the black and white way of lead generation doesn’t mean you can make it colorful. More people will appreciate your effort. In return this will lead to more business for you. Good luck!

Parents, what do you do to teach your children about real estate investing? I have a 5 year old daughter who is interested in “fixing houses with Dad” As we all know, fixing houses is only half the fun. The other parts are a little more challenging for a little entrepreneur to comprehend. Monopoly is still a little over her head too, although she does love owning the hotels. Anyways, I’d love to hear what you do with your kids and how you’re teaching them.

I live in Cortland, if you want to look at some deals in the Southern Tier let me know!

Jesse Maldonado I’ve just started my own personal PM business and it’s started up quite well. I manage a small amount of SFHs for landlords and home owners moving out of state. Best way to start off is to advertise to as many businesses and homeowners as possible. Are you licensed? Some states (like New York) require you to have an RE license in order to work with multiple landlords or homeowners. If you want to talk more PM me and I can try to help as much as possible. Best of luck!

I've been licensed for two years, it has been the best decision of my life. When you guys get into your local MLS, find a program called RPR "Realtor Property Resource". Learn how to use this program, it has served me well in my investing endeavor. You can use this program to find any property across the U.S. If you go the "Distressed Properties" route for investing, RPR has a search criteria for distressed homes (local and national). Just because we're new doesn't mean we can be players in our industry! Good luck guys and gals!

Your story is unfortunate but makes for a great learning experience. Next time have people take photos of all the rooms for you. That’s what I do for my out of state clients. I hope your next venture goes better!

Hey Jerry, Depending on your strategy, try looking for auctions in the area. Each county does their own and plenty of local auctioneers who list auction properties on their websites. Do your market research and have an exit strategy. Onondaga has a relatively stable market, keep that in mind when you’re purchasing. If you are interested in buy and holds, Ithaca rental market is booming right now. 1200+/mo rents for 2 bedroom apartments are the average. (Pumped to see what happens with the new tax plan in place.) Let me know! Best of luck! Nick

You and I are in the same boat. I’d say do it yourself first. In my newbie investing experience I’ve learned people love to take advantage of you. By learning how things work first hand, you’ll be less likely to be taken advantage of. Last thing you want is an expensive PM who’s ripping you off. This also goes beyond PMs, this also is for contractors and tenants.