Expert money-making advice from the nation's leading fixer-upper guru "Excellent book on the fixer strategy."--John T. Reed, bestselling real estate author "Filled with practical examples of how to profit from rundown fixer-upper properties."--Robert J. Bruss, syndicated real estate columnist Nobody wants to buy an ugly, decrepit, rundown house--which is exactly why they provide real estate investors with the best bargains! In Investing in Fixer-Uppers , nationally known real estate guru Jay DeCima reveals how investors can add thousands of dollars to the value of an "ugly" house. He discusses how to substitute personal skills for traditional down payments, strategies to profit without waiting for appreciation, and dozens of other value-adding tips.
This is a simple, straight forward explanation of how to make money flipping houses. Full of interesting and sometimes humorous experineces and sample documents, this book actually led me to negoiate the purchase of a small business. Since then, I have used the knowledge gained from this book to make many business negotiations and transactions, most of which were completely unrelated to real estate. But, when I'm ready to flip a house, I'll be greatful that this treasure trove is on my shelf!
It is a bit dated. Prices have really risen since this book was written. Interesting reading however, I think I would only invest in fixer upper if I was involved with someone in construction. I know myself well enough to know it is not my type of work.
This book outline's decima's formula for making money off of real estate. While some books choose to go the philosophical route and give you general concepts for you to figure out how to apply, Decima flat out tells you what to do every step of the way. He covers finding, fixing, renting and financing.
The drawbacks are that not everything will apply in every market. For example, I think the book is not very useful in nyc's current market, however for the other less competitive areas, defnitely!
I'm on my first house and looking into two more at the moment and I'm applying some of the stuff I read with this book.
Everyone should read this book especially If you're thinking about buying a house or becoming a land lord. It reads as if the words are being spoken by an old friend with insight who's willing to share with your benefit in mind.
I read this book 10 years ago when I was still a baby landlord. I read it again last week and I have to say the advice in it is still as true as ever. It is a great book.