All Forum Posts by: Tanya McDonald

Hey everyone,

I’m an investor and licensed agent working across California (mostly SoCal, Central Valley, and Bay Area), and lately I’ve noticed sellers getting a lot more flexible (especially on properties that need work). Seems like we’re finally shifting toward a buyer-friendly market in a lot of areas.

I’m still active on off-market deals, so I see a good amount of distressed or discounted stuff moving quietly. Curious how others are sourcing lately, what’s been working for you?

Are you still doing direct mail, cold calling, agent connections, wholesalers, auctions?

Would be cool to compare notes and maybe connect with others still actively buying. I’m always open to sharing leads or seeing what others have in the pipeline.

What kind of deals are you seeing right now?

@David Martoyan Hi David! I used my own money up front about $60,000 down payment and construction (I didn't pull all the money from my lender)

let's connect! I currently work with a real estate investment group and I'm learning a lot more about different fundings

@Lenny Figueroa thank you!! 🫶🏼

@Chris Miller hey Chris! The main house was only 870 sqft and detached garage was 400 sqft :)

@Denette R. hi Danette! Thank you so much for your insight!

would love to connect with you as well! My office is over on Wilshire, if you are ever in the area would love to grab coffee with you!

@Ko Kashiwagi hi Ko!

I actually found this one on the MLS! And got lucky that the seller offered $7500 in concessions as well☺️

Hey y’all — curious to hear your take on this.

I’m an agent out here in Southern California (LA/OC markets) and have been focused on working with real estate investors, especially those looking for off-market or value-add properties.

Lately, I’ve been hitting up local meetups and Facebook groups trying to build solid connections — but most of the people I run into are either wholesalers or other agents doing the same thing. I get that it’s a numbers game, and I’m not afraid of putting in the work, but I’d love to hear from this community…

What’s actually worked for you (as an agent or investor) to build real relationships with active buyers or investors?

Are there platforms, strategies, or events that have helped you cut through the noise and connect with serious folks who are actually doing deals?

Would appreciate any insight — trying to sharpen how I spend my time and energy out here.

Thanks in advance!

Hi Ziad! welcome to the SoCal market! I’m based in the LA area and have worked with several investors evaluating mixed-use properties like the one you're describing, especially in South LA submarkets like Compton.

Over the past 5–6 years, Compton’s seen some solid appreciation (especially on the residential side). As we all know prices jumped quite a bit during the COVID run-up, and while things have cooled a bit recently, values have held better than expected. It’s definitely more of a fundamentals game now — cash flow, tenant strength, etc.

For mixed-use, it really comes down to what kind of commercial tenants you’ve got. If they’re local service-based businesses (barbershops, tax offices, food spots), they tend to do fine. Investors I know like these deals when the residential covers most of the NOI, and the commercial side adds value without being too risky.

That resi + small commercial layout can work well in Compton — especially if it’s mostly leased. Just be sure to look into local rent control rules (there are a few layers in LA County), and double-check the commercial lease terms so you’re not stuck with short-term risk.

If you ever want to bounce specifics around, happy to share what I’m seeing on the ground. Hope that helps!

Hey guys! Just wanted to share a quick update — I recently closed escrow on my first flip in Bakersfield (May 7), and we’re getting ready to list next week!

This opportunity came together thanks to everything I learned from BiggerPockets forums and videos, so huge shoutout to the community 🙌

The house was a full gut job — new roof, complete interior renovation, and yes… there was literally a hole straight from the living room to the crawlspace 😅

We managed to move fast and keep things clean, mostly because I followed a lot of the advice from others here — especially around project management and keeping crews accountable. Definitely learned a ton.

Only thing I might’ve done differently? I think I could’ve locked in a better Hard Money loan structure. But hey — now I know what to look for next time.

Curious to hear:

What do you wish you knew on your first flip? Let's keep the community fed! haha

Anyone else working on something in Kern County/ LA County right now?

Hey David — I ran into a similar situation while looking for deals. Found a property that had been purchased by another investor, then listed on the MLS just three weeks later. I spoke with the agent and they told me the original buyer backed out because the rehab was going to be over budget.

Just a heads-up — a lot of times when investors walk away, it’s due to hidden repair costs that aren’t obvious up front. Things like foundation issues, electrical, or plumbing problems can sneak up fast. If you’re still considering the deal, definitely do a full inspection and bring a contractor if you can.

Also, as an agent, I’d say be extra cautious you’re not getting played by the listing side. Make sure you get all the disclosures and go through them thoroughly. Sometimes things are left out or glossed over — don’t be afraid to ask questions and dig deeper.

Best of luck with your first project!