Monday, May 25, 2009

Flipping Properties - Easy as 1-2-3

By Volker Tidsch

When you first start out, learning how to flip a house can be hard work. And complicated. Sure, those with real estate experience will have an easier time with it, but anyone can learn how to flip a house and do it profitably. There are some technical issues that may come along the pipe, but the average person can still overcome these issues by doing a little research and learn how to develop properties and unload them for a hefty profit. How can Joe Q. Public accomplish this?

With this brief guide, we have done the homework and outlined the important steps that can make you a seasoned flipper and get you making the profit you want and on your way to financial independence.

1.) Research, research, research. Learning the ins-and-outs of the real estate industry can teach you how to bargain, how to accurately evaluate properties, and make sure that the deal that you struck is in your favor. Knowing the differences in condos, houses, bungalows, duplexes, and other housing establishments, is vital. Basic knowledge of houses and properties and the development of those properties is just as important as having the capital to invest. Ways to educate yourself, other than reading and the natural course of studying, could include contacting professional realtors, attending open houses for available homes - house-flipping has become popular enough that finding the information you need to properly appraise a property so you know exactly what sort of work and profit you are looking at.

2.) Along with research in today's market, you also want to know the history of the real estate industry as well as where it is going. The news is, of course, a great place to start, but there are real estate journals and market magazines available which will give you an inside edge on those guys who aren't willing to put the work in. Everyone wants to be able to throw that long bomb to the wide receiver for that huge touchdown profit, but you definitely can get a leg up by knowing what the defense is doing and how to adjust your plans.

3.) Now it's time to find that perfect property that you can get as inexpensively as possible, invest minimal time and effort into restoring and repairing, and then flip the house for a maximum profit. This is the perfect flip, of course. And the only way you're going to accomplish this is by doing the legwork and finding out if you would save costs by doing the jobs yourself or subcontracting them to the lowest bidder. You will also be able to save on your budget by shopping around for materials as well as doing small changes to a property or house which could make the selling of the house much easier. Unique landscaping is definitely one inexpensive way to do this. Also keep in mind who exactly is in the market for a new home or property.

4.) Finally, and most important to your bank account, is avoiding paying for the repairs out of your own pocket. If you have to, taking out a loan is definitely better than using your personal capital to balance budget overages. That loan will allow you to keep your professional and personal finances separate. Acquiring a loan larger than the final cost of the property can be advantageous and can easily be covered in the selling price of the house once you flip it over to another buyer.

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