Travis White Newport Beach - Simple Steps to Reaching Your Real Estate Investment Dreams

Travis White Newport Beach - Simple Steps to Reaching Your Real Estate Investment Dreams During times of economic uncertainty people are more prone to look for social proof before making a decision.

Social proof happens when people use the actions of those around them to decide what action they will (or will not) take. When they see or hear about others doing something they begin to feel that the same action is the correct course for them to pursue as well. This is also called "groupthink" or the "herd mentality."

And this phenomenon is plainly demonstrated over and over in the real estate market. The media amplifies fear or greed in the market and people see the media reports as social proof.

But here's the good news: to make money in real estate you just have to figure out which direction the herd is stampeding and structure your deals accordingly. If the "herd" is moving away from the real estate market due to fear, it means there are some remarkable deals out there to be had.

Who doesn't want to get in on a deal before others become aware of its potential? The first to recognize an opportunity will usually pay less, have the best choices, and ultimately have the most power. These same principles should be applied to the real estate market.

Step 1. Where are you going? Know your goals.

When you know the destination, it becomes easier to map out your journey. You need to know what your ultimate goals are before you ever buy your first property.

Step 2. Study the Market Look for locations where you'll be able to find opportunities that will help you meet your specific real estate goals.

This is the step where a lot of investors fumble; they get caught up running after the latest 'hot tip' or trend and forget about doing their own research. This is where the herd mentality can catch you by surprise! You must be prepared to do your own research because no one knows your goals better than you do.

Step 3. Select a Property The best way to find quality real estate investment opportunities is to utilize your network.

You don't want to be the only one keeping an eye out for the perfect property. Spread the word about the deals you're looking for.

Then, based on the research you've done and the goals you've set, choose the property that is going to make you money and meet your goals. And remember ... if you haven't looked at 100 properties you probably don't know what a good deal looks like. You have to look at a lot of properties online and in person before you can select the one that you should buy.

Step 4. Buy the Property How can you solve a problem for the seller? This is the question you want to ask of yourself when you find a property to buy. The best deals will be created when you solve a problem.

Especially if it's a problem that no one else has been able to solve.

If, for example, you locate the perfect property and you have a seller who has vacated and is already paying a mortgage somewhere else, you know they'll be more motivated to sell. In this case you might reduce your offer but guarantee a 30 day close. A cash strapped seller will be more inclined to bite on your offer. The point is to negotiate the most favorable deal; I've seen sellers throw in furnishing, sporting goods, and even automobiles to get a deal done.

Or what about if you found a small apartment building for sale that you think would be a good opportunity for investment. Let's say you find out if the owner is burned out from dealing with the stresses of managing the property - you could offer to do a deal where in exchange for 50% ownership you become acting landlord and property manager.

Step 5. Be Profitable - Watch Your Cash Flow Let's face it: the whole point of investing is to make a profit. Revenues will only be gained by filling your properties with reliable tenants who will consistently pay. You may end up hiring a property manager to handle problems and collect rent, but this is not an excuse to take your eye off the prize.