Run Down Houses

Comments(5)

• 
  tntmoz5th August, 2003

  "would it be be insulting to them to say straight out the house needs work and you want to buy it as an investment?"
  
  HHMMMM....let me see here. I'm sitting down to dinner with my family when a stranger knocks on the door. I get up to answer it. "hello, I'm mr/mrs wanna be investor. I was driving by and noticed that your house is pretty run down and could use some work. Tell you what, I'll buy it from you. Of course, I can only pay 70% minus repairs. Is now a good time to look over the contract?"
  
  Hey, you know, it just might work...
  
  I don't mean to be ugly but I think your last question was a little shortsighted. Whatever you decide to say, try it in the mirror first. Does it sound just a little corny?
  
  Your in the right place to try things out before knocking on any doors. I don't know where your'e from but down here in Texas, you might just find yourself on the wrong end of the barrel!!!
  
  best of luck!

• 
  fauche655th August, 2003

  Try this:
  Knock on door.
  "Hello, my name is _______. I am a private investor in the real estate market. I am interested in purchasing houses such as yours in this area, and was wondering if you have ever considered selling?

• 
  drokefe15th August, 2003

  Thanks for the quick replies, there are many of these type of houses in my area I want to contact the owner. In person is best I know, but does anyone have a good letter to send out to a property that isn't going into forclosure but would just prove to be a good fixerupper.
  -Dave-

• 
  fauche655th August, 2003

  Dave,
  In this instance I think the personal approach is best. The letter will more than likely end up in the trash, especially if they have been contacted by other investors.
  
  My $0.02
  J.

• 
  WillFalkiner8th August, 2003

  If the owner lives there, personal contact is best. If its an absentee, a phone call or a letter like this might work.
  
  John Investor
  123 My Own St
  HomeTown , USA 54321
  
  September 1, 2003
  
  Mr. Property Owner
  456 RunDown Rd.
  ShiddyCity, USA 12345
  
  Dear Mr. Owner,
  
  I was driving down the street yesterday, when I noticed that your property at 666 Sixth Street appears to be in some distress.
  
  I wondered if, because you live in another state, you are aware of its condition?
  
  As an absentee owner myself, I know how difficult it can be to manage property from a long distance.
  
  I am a real estate investor and have experience in property management, rehabilitation, and rentals.
  
  If you are considering selling, or if you would just like my assistance or advice on how best to prevent further deterioration of your asset, I can be reached at 123-456-1234, or respond by mail to the above noted address.
  
  I look forward to hearing from you.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  John Investor