WalshStreet Blog

With tighter lending restrictions and declining market values I hear the constant cry of frustration, "real estate is dead in the water". "I can't do anything to resolve my real estate issues". My friends, I'm here to tell you, all is not lost. We only have to go back a few pages in our history books to a time when current loan requirements were the norm, there was no accelerated appreciation in the market, and real estate professionals spent some time  putting deals together for clients.

Proven real estate purchase and selling procedures such as lease options, seller financing, wraparound loans, sandwich options and quick sales are just a few options to traditional lender financing that can make your deal happen. The key is to find a trustworthy and experienced real estate professional that can make it happen. Real estate investors are typically more knowledgeable than the average real estate agent for this reason, you should be open to considering investors.

Exercise your due diligence! Check licenses with issuing offices. Check references by interview, don't just review the information. Get everything in writing. Do all and anything you can to have enough information on the person you choose  to help you , so you can hold him accountable to his part of the agreement. If an investor does not have any credentials, check with any organizations or real estate clubs he may be a member of.  

To help with the uncertainty of a declining market, hire a certified, experienced (8 yrs. or more) appraiser  to provide you with an REO (REO= Real Estate Owned) appraisal. This appraisal report should analyze, support and exhibit any declining market trends and all influences. There should be a strong, understandable, reconciliation that explains how the final value was reached.This is the same type of report most lenders are requiring to help them eliminate speculation as to what the actual value is in a declining market.

Lawrence A. Walsh

Appraiser / Realtor / Investor

www.WalshStreet.net