Carla Barnes aka The Mortgage Diva's Blog

Carla Barnes aka The Motivational Mortgage Diva answering your Real Estate Questions.

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 12:32:34 -0800

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2009: A Year In Review and 2010: A Real Estate Forecast

After enduring three years of a declining real estate market, 2009 brought a much needed break for the hard hit real estate sector. Driven largely in part by the economic stimulus that helped the housing market emerge from the recession, it leaves many of us wondering what is next for real estate. Will housing prices rebound? Will the new extended and expanded tax credit be just what the doctor ordered? Will the luxury market recover similarly to the entry level?
EOTM Real Estate Group brings to you a discussion of the 2009 housing market and what we may expect in 2010.

Question from Jamie in Texas

How would you say the housing market faired in 2009? Did it live up to your expectations or falter?“

Although it was a challenging year, I believe it was a year of transition in many of our markets. We bounced along a rough bottom but at the same time, we are really prepared for a modest and consistent improvement. The second half of 2009 was when we finally saw a jumpstart. I think that really stems from consumer confidence. Does a buyer feel confident in his/her employment and finances? If so, then buying a home is typically a good option. Another way that the government is reinforcing the viability of buying a home is by offering the tax credit. First time home buyers should really take advantage of this great incentive.

Question from Tangi in Atlanta

Do you feel the tax credit was an important factor in the market turnaround?

Undoubtedly, the tax credit was an important factor in our market’s turnaround. We didn’t really know this for sure until we started looking at the number of closed escrows in September, October and November. The number of properties that went under contract increased as we grew closer to the November 30th, the original expiration date for that tax credit. It was a very clear indication that once potential buyers realized they might miss out on the $8,000, tax credit if they did not move quickly; many buyers got off the fence and began to act. The number of property showings was up. The number of properties that were sold was up. Then, we saw the extension of the tax credit and we saw yet another market adjustment. I wouldn’t say that the market has been slowing, but there has been a softening of the frenzy. I think as buyers near the new expiration date of April 30, 2010 that they will once again begin to act.

Question from Tanya Blake in Atlanta

Do you think the extended and expanded tax credit will solidify our market recovery?

Certainly the increased activity that we’ve had in the lower end market has been good; but in and of itself it probably will not create a market-wide recovery. To have a market- wide recovery, we have to be able to engage the move-up buyer. We have to remind the move-up buyer that now may be the best time in our history to step up to the higher priced homes. The fact is you probably have never gotten as much value, thanks to interest rates current affordability. Six months to a year from now, we probably won’t be able to say the same. We are certainly recognizing that the tax credit is compelling if a potential buyer is confident in his/her finances or future employment.

Question from Mark in Atlanta

Why is it such a great time to move-up?

It’s all about the power of leverage. The fact is that in most markets, inventory is very low in the entry priced home range. So buyers in that market are often competing against other buyers for the same home making it more of a seller’s market. However, it is a buyer’s market in the mid-level and upper end markets so you truly get the best of both worlds when you choose to move-up.

Question from Stephan in Atlanta

There is a lot of talk about the impact of inflation. Do you think people should be concerned about it?

Certainly people need to be aware that inflation is very likely. The government has devoted a great deal of money to stimulate our economy and in order to strengthen our dollar over time, more than likely we will see higher interest rates which will mean less buying power for a home buyer. But it all goes back to maximizing your opportunities now, in today’s market. For those who have been successful in their lifetime, they were always looking at the opportunity, today. In real estate, in order to do so, you must sell where the market segment is strong and buy where the market segment is weak. Today that opportunity resides with the move-up buyer.

Another important fact to note is how advantageous interest rates are right now. Some buyers are able to qualify for 30-year fixed mortgages at under 5%.

Question from Michael in Los Angeles

Do you think we’ve hit bottom?

I think in many communities we probably have hit bottom. We are seeing statistical evidence of it in the average sale price and in the number of homes sold. Interestingly (and I think this may be contrary to what most people believe), the communities that may have hit bottom are not necessarily those that were hardest hit by foreclosures. The communities that are strongest today are those that are clearly most desirable. When the market gets soft, the people who in previous markets couldn’t afford their first choice market had to settle for their second or third choices. But thanks to the opportunities in today’s market, they are better able to buy into their first choice communities and neighborhoods. It goes back to supply and demand. Those communities that have good schools, good local economies, diverse activities and, overall, are just considered more desirable places to live, are once again driving demand.

Question from Tony in Charlotte

What do you recommend to today’s home buyer?

Buyers need to understand right now that the market is a little schizophrenic. You know it is probably the time to buy and you also know that the market has been challenged. But you may see that in certain markets, we’ve had lower prices and decreasing numbers of available homes for sale. In that type of area, you might expect to get a lower price than a year ago. But you also need to realize that the market is picking up and that in many markets, we’ve probably hit bottom. For example, if you want to be where the best schools, best hiking trails and best parks are, that will probably be where the best recoveries are likely to occur. To properly ride the wave, you should find the houses where people want to be. The problem is that if you wait a year, you’re probably going to run up against a lot of challenges: increased interest rates, increased buyer demand, and lower available housing inventory. The combination of those factors is what is creating more urgency in the more desirable markets today.

Question from Tabitha in Macon

What do you anticipate for real estate in 2010?

What we’re going to see in 2010 is probably the more desirable neighborhoods seeing a modest increase in sales price and a decrease in the number of homes on the market. I predict that we are going to see an overall stabilization in the marketplace. We are probably going to see on the whole a slight increase of the average sales price of homes. We’re probably going to see a stabilization of the market. We probably won’t ever return to the sales levels of 2005 and 2006 because so many of those sales were artificially created. Fortunately, I believe that we are now on the right path toward modest, sustainable growth.

Fans of Atlanta Real Estate please feel free to continue to send in all of your real estate/mortgage questions to carla@eotmrealestategroup.

com. Questions and answers will be displayed here.

Add To Your Investment In Property Management

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 05:45:23 -0800

Investment property management is fast emerging as one of the vital aspects of a successful realty investment. In spite of the currently dull phase of the housing market, investing in properties is still considered one of the most profitable and stable activities. To keep all realty investments profitable, it is important to ensure efficient assets management.

Managing a property that includes managing of any type of tenants can be a daunting task. While purchasing realty is one thing, effective management is another. This is especially true if the owner or the investor does not possess management skills like the management professionals have. These experts can help to maintain the investments in the apartments or homes efficiently and also to manage good tenant relationships.

While management of properties such as apartments, single family homes and commercial properties does include screening prospective tenants and handpicking the suitable ones, it does not necessarily stop there. The property has to be well maintained and there has to be an impeccable system of accountability related to all financial transactions of its equity growth as well as the cash flow generated by renting it out to tenants.

What Makes Management Professionals Indispensable

Most property owners who stress on saving money usually end up hiring a single professional for investment management. Whether it is a house or a small apartment community, it is not possible for a single individual even a qualified one to attend to all the responsibilities associated with management or apartments and commercial investsments, supervise its maintenance and turn it into a profitable investment. This is why the primary concern of an owner or an investor must be to hire an established company that can offer outstanding services to keep all kinds of properties functioning at the highest possible levels.

A good management company will connect the investor with an experienced manager who will handle all matters related to the property. The professional responsible for investment property management will also act as the intermediary between the investor, tenants and the management company. The manager will also make sure that the investor receives accurate financial statements regarding the income generated from the property regularly.

A person who has invested in an single family home, duplexes or something on a more larger scale would definitely require a professional who is an expert is in his field and is aware of the financial goals of the investor. Since all properties are able to generate profits, a property manager must treat all properties as serious business. Therefore, before actually hiring an agency for investment management, the investor must create a great business plan with the management company. If the company seems to treat each investment as real business, they are likely to handle properties efficiently by enhancing their value and lowering potential risks.

Obviously, there is a lot at stake while choosing a company to manage realty investments and keep it running profitably. Therefore, it is important that the company and their overall business ethics inspire confidence and trust in the investor so that he is completely comfortable in assigning the property to the company handling investment property management.

Making the right decision regarding the company selected for managing properties and evaluating the experience of this company can directly influence the success of a realty investment. As long as owners or investors choose the best management professionals, they can create a profitable realty business.

Our goal is to help maximize your most prized investments. Contact Carla Barnes of EOTM Properties today to receive a free rental analysis of your most prized investment(s).

Direct line – 678-548-9466

Email – carla@eotmrealestategroup.com

Website – www.eotmrealestategroup.com

Real Estate Blog - http://activerain.com/blogs/mortgage_diva

The Queens of Internet Radio to Host Fundraising Gala

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:48:07 -0800

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49wt3MS04zk

The Celebrating The Queens of our Communities Awards Ceremony will host a fundraising dinner and entertainment gala on Sunday, March 7, 2010 from 5 PM – 11 PM at the Historic Highland Inn & Ball Room in Atlanta, Georgia. Proceeds from the event will benefit programs to develop a supportive networking system for women entrepreneurs in America and abroad.

"These women we will honor have an above average entrepreneurial spirit, high ethics and community spirit, financial and management skill coupled with creativity and out of the box thinking," stated program director Carla Barnes. "The event is designed to ignite the fire and inspire a whole new generation of empowered woman across the country. This collaborative effort makes possible a unique informative Award Ceremony/Conference to the future of Women in Atlanta and beyond as we celebrate Women History’s Month."

"Celebrating the Queen’s in our Communities" includes a special tribute to top nominees. This will be followed by the awards ceremony. Celebrity guests are scheduled to perform in honor of the women. Additionally, two, dynamic motivational speakers that will host a skit which features women entrepreneurs from 1975 to the present time.

The program promises thought-provoking insights from prominent women leaders, as well as interactive dialogue with relevant subject matter, experts, and exhibitors.

"The public is invited to join us in supporting this important program with a sponsorship, or by purchasing tickets to this provocative event," stated Barnes. "The sponsorship opportunities are an excellent way to gain visibility for companies. 150 participants expected at our event. There will also be ample networking opportunities," she concluded.

Tickets are $20 - $50 each, and may be purchased online at http://queensofinternetradio.com/Events.aspx or by calling 678-548-9466.

ABOUT EOTM RADIO & MEDIA:

The Queen’s of Internet Radio and their partners are committed to offering Educational Programs, Executive Coaching and Mentorship, Resource and Referral Services, Professional Development Services, Special Events of Interest to audiences including business executives, entrepreneurs, women In the work force, educators, legislators, activists and government officials. Their mission is to combine collective talents and resources to develop a supportive networking system for entrepreneurs throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Company Contact Information
EOTM Radio & Media
Carla Barnes
289 Jonesboro Road
Suite 413
30253
Phone : 678-548-9466

email: event@queensofinternetradio.com

Women Investing in Real Estate

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:52:05 -0700

Tips and strategies for women who are beginners in real estate investing

There are women all over the country who would like to become real estate investors but many don't know how to start. Some lack knowledge; some, aware that they lack the necessary knowledge, in turn lack confidence. Where should women who want to get started investing in real estate begin?

The internet is a good place for them to turn.

Women who want to begin investing in real estate can learn some of the basics of investing in real estate by reading educational materials online, and they can develop a familiarity with the topic by reading about current events and trends in the real estate market.

Lack of knowledge is not the only thing that keeps some women from becoming real estate investors; fear is also a contributing factor. Many are afraid of losing money, they're afraid of not making the right decisions...and credit issues are also involved. In addition they don't know how to get started.

Real Estate Investment Clubs

Providing women with industry contacts and education, real estate investment clubs are a good place to start. I recommend that women interested in investing in real estate do a simple internet search for "real estate investing" to find local investment groups to start attending. EOTM just recently launched their new Investment Club geared towards providing newbie investors with resources and key skill sets with success as the end result.

Finding other women to network with can be very beneficial.

In addition to investment clubs specifically pertaining to real estate, I would strongly recommend looking for support from a general business perspective at NAPW, the National Association of Professional Women. They'll get a lot of support from a business owner's perspective and from women in their own area.

Networking

No matter what type of real estate or general investment clubs women seeking to become real estate investors choose to join, such groups can provide them with crucial opportunities for networking, education and support.

The greatest key is knowledge, and women new to real estate investing can benefit from being around other people who do invest to learn the process from those people.

Learning from and working with other women who are experienced real estate investors can also be a good way to gain confidence. Beginning investors should work with someone with experience in real estate investing—get your feet wet a little bit before you go out on your own.

At real estate investment clubs, there are real estate agents and other investors there for them to network with, there are lenders, there are contractors.

Everybody who's related to the real estate industry can be found right there...so they can form their own network there to get them ready for real estate investing. After joining a group, women should put a business plan, or a marketing plan, or a road map together—their checklist of things that they need to do in order to become successful.

Putting together a team of experts to work with when investing is smart. You have your financial team: your accountant, your attorney, a property manager if you're buying to hold property for the long term...people that can assist you and be part of your team so that when you go out to identify and find a deal, nothing is going to stand in the way if the deal makes sense. You've got your people, your money—all your ducks in a row.

If a woman does that, she's going to be very successful in real estate.

Strategies for Women

Considering the credit crunch underway across the country, combined with the potential recession, many women who are interested in becoming real estate investors hesitate because they are nervous about money. More precisely, they are worried about not having enough money to be able to invest in real estate.

I think some women feel that they need to have a lot of capital up front, or their credit may be bad and they don't think they can get started because of that, either.

Let's talk Money

Realistically, investors will need some money up front. It's going to take a little money to get started. One year ago an investor could buy a property with no money down and get it financed for 100 percent. With all the foreclosures going on across the country, that kind of put a thorn in that, and so now [real estate investors need] to come up with some money. Whether that's 10 percent or 20 percent, a lot of them just don't have it.

Fortunately, for women just starting out, there's a lot of different creative strategies, like lease options, that they could do to acquire a property.

Buying pre-foreclosures or foreclosures is another strategy that may suit women in particular well for a variety of reasons. While foreclosure properties tend to be more affordable, they typically must be purchased with cash up front. Pre-foreclosures would be a better option for people without a lot of cash on hand.

Another reason is that, because in many cases women are more nurturing than men, a woman may be able to talk with homeowners who are in pre-foreclosure and get them to let her purchase a house below market price compared to a man approaching them to do that.

The foreclosure market is a place in which many women investing in real estate could find their niche. I think women will play a major role in their commitment to revitalize areas hardest hit by foreclosures. Members of my group, have made a commitment to buying and rehabbing houses in these areas and then sharing equity with properties that they sell. And by doing this, homes become more affordable....We take a little less profit for it, but something has got to stimulate home sales again, particularly in these areas.

Such a strategy allows the investors to profit not just from the revitalization of a particular property, but from the revitalization of a particular area. Such dedication to a community can improve an area's economic outlook. This type of investment is well suited to women because a great advantage that women hold over men is compassion, and empathy.

Outlook

Women are relationship people, we're good at establishing a relationship, we're good at earning trust, and so people want to do business with us. It becomes a lot easier for us to develop a good reputation for delivering a quality product. This is a tremendous advantage for women, particularly when it comes to rehabbing property.

I would also recommend that women who lack experience with do-it-yourself home projects attend classes, such as those offered by hardware and home improvement stores, to learn the basics. Then, if someday they are looking at investing in a property that may require some work, they can make the right decisions about the deal. Do-it-yourself skills could be particularly useful for women who want to rehab properties.

Negotiating can be another important skill for women to concentrate on learning. Women should also learn better negotiation skills and take control.

I don’t think that women are at any inherent disadvantage when it comes to investing in real estate. I think the major disadvantage is probably internal. Women only feel that they lack the power and authority. They feel like they can't do it because investing is a male-dominated field.

Women investing in real estate are not less likely to be successful solely because they are women. It’s not that it's difficult; it's that women tend not to have the confidence, in my opinion. Somebody who's persistent and somebody who believes in themselves, whether male or female, will do just fine.

If you are seriously looking to tap into the Real Estate Investment arena don’t hesitate in contacting Carla Barnes of EOTM Real Estate Group today. 678-548-9466. Also feel free to visit our new Real Estate Investment Club.

Listen live to EOTM Real Estate Hot Talk - Call in & Share Knowledge with US! Because "WE is Greater than "I".

Tips from your Treasury Secretary: Can't sell -- Just Rent it!

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 19:21:48 -0700

Carla Barnes of EOTM Properties explains how homeowners can turn their unsold properties into rental income. The nation's painful housing bust has put sellers in a serious lurch. To get their properties sold, many sellers will have to make sharp reductions to their asking prices --- a necessary evil that can rob the investment of its return. But Carla Barnes has a different idea. In her new infomercial, Can’t Sell Your Home, Rent it!

.. ..

Carla describes how homeowners can ride out the turbulent market by converting their homes into rental properties. Barnes outlined the benefits of renting, explained how homeowners can determine if it's right for them, and even offered advice on how to avoid lousy tenants.

.. ..

Watch the infomercial live now >>>

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAdGxgGF_wI

What are the benefits of renting out your home if you can't sell it?....

There are many benefits, including the ability to ride out the market and potentially not lose money on a home. It generally isn't in a homeowner's best interest to sell at the bottom of a market—unless they have an unusual financial circumstance, such as immediate retirement or illness. Secondly, renting offers the ability to take a tax deduction if there is any rental loss. Moreover, renters have the ability to move back into the home. In other words, if you're not sure that you will like ..Texas.. and want to move there, you can always move back to your ....Georgia.... home if you don't like it.

When would it make the most sense for a homeowner who is unable to sell his home to rent it out?

If you are in the military, renting is a great option. Military personnel often have to move rapidly for deployment, but they cannot sell the home with 10 months' inventory on the books for any reasonable price. Secondly, if you need to move quickly to take a job but don't want to sell your home in a down market, renting is a great alternative. If your home isn't worth what you owe, you might be able to modify the loan to change the principle balance and rent it out to ride out the market.

.. ..

Feel free to contact Carla Barnes of EOTM Properties today for a free rental analysis of your most prized investment @ 678-548-9466

and visit and bookmark our website today >> www.eotmrealestategroup.com

Calculating Return on Investment

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:14:10 -0700

How do you know if you are getting a good return on your real estate investment? Calculating the ROI on your investment property is critical to knowing how your investment is performing, or when comparing one investment to another.

In order to successfully decide whether a property is worth buying, an investor must run the numbers to calculate two types of returns: Cash-on-cash return on investment, and total return on investment.

Cash on Cash Return on Investment

The cash on cash return on investment is the before-tax cash flow (BTCF) divided by your initial cash investment. The formula looks like this:

Cash on Cash Return on Investment = BTCF / Initial Cash Investment

Your before-tax cash flow is calculated by subtracting your annual mortgage payment from your net operating income (NOI). The net operating income is simply the total income from the property minus the total expenses.

Let’s take a look at an example using a $150,000 income property purchased with a 20% down payment of $30,000. Let’s assume your mortgage of $120,000 is fixed for 30 years at a 7 percent interest rate.

Let’s assume your BTCF is $3,000 per year ($250 per month):

Cash on Cash ROI = $3,000 / $30,000 = 10.0%

Through the “magic” of leverage using financing to purchase your property, you have created a cash on cash ROI of 10%. This would be quite attractive to most investors in today’s market.

The cash on cash ROI is a good measure of a property’s first year financial performance. However, it does not include the additional benefits achieved through real estate such as the amortization of the mortgage and any future appreciation. The total return on investment addresses that.

Total Return on Investment

The total return on investment (TROI) provides a better and more complete measure of a property’s financial performance. That is because it factors in amortization and appreciation gained over time.

Total ROI = (BTCF + Net Sales Proceeds – Initial Cash Investment) / Initial Cash Investment

In order to calculate the total return on investment, one must project the BTCF for each year of expected ownership as well as the net sales proceeds from the sale of the property.

Let’s take our example above and assume that we plan to sell it in five years with an average annual appreciation rate of 4% per year. After five years our $150,000 property would be worth $182,498, and our mortgage balance would be $111,665. Let’s also assume that our selling expenses total 5% of the sales price, or $9,125.

Using the figures above, our net sales proceeds from the sale of the property in year five would be $61,708 ($182,498 – $111,665 – $9,125). Additionally, our before tax cash flow after five years would total $15,000 assuming no annual increase in rents or cash flow. Now our formula looks like this:

Total Return on Investment = ($15,000 + $61,708 – $30,000) / $30,000 = 156%

Note that some investors calculate their TROI using their after-tax cash flow (ATCF) instead of the BTCF. This can provide a deeper “bottom line” measure of the return on investment; however, it does not provide a good measure to compare one investment to another since tax liabilities will vary between individual investors. Calculating the TROI using ATCF is best suited for investor specific use.

By projecting a property’s future cash flows and appreciation, you can calculate the potential gains on your initial cash invested (down payment). Assuming the property is not declining in value, the TROI should increase in each successive year.

However, total return on investment can be a little shortsighted when used in isolation. This is because total return on investment does not measure of the property’s financial performance as it relates to its equity. For this we must calculate the property’s return on equity (ROE). Similar to the TROI, the return on equity calculation replaces the initial cash invested with the properties equity in a given year.

Please feel free to submit all mortgage and real estate related questions directly to me via email @ carla@eotmrealestategroup.com.

Your Key to The City of Atlanta - See What just Popped In!

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 09:10:19 -0700

YOUR KEY TO THE CITY

We Currently Manage Homes In

Atlanta

Buckhead

College Park

East Point

Midtown

Fayetteville

Jackson

Loganville

Lawrenceville

Kingsland

Smyrna

Snelleville

Decatur

Jonesboro

McDonough

Stockbridge

Fairburn

Union City

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ALL CASH DEALS

Ask about New Investment Properties Under $30,000!

Buying Real Estate With All Cash

In an up and down market there are those investors that will dig up opportunities regardless of the state of the economy. These types of individuals are known as the "Warren Buffets" of Real Estate. They understand that in the current climate banks are holding on to their cash with a wait and see attitude. Savvy investors are finding that buying with "All-cash" works as a viable strategy for acquiring residential and commercial bank owned properties. The investors with a wait and see attitude for institutional lending and financing are missing a great opportunity to buy while everything is on sale. Rock bottom prices in the residential and commercial markets in part have been driven down by the scarce availability of credit. Stop waiting and start taking advantage of the Investors Buyers Market in Atlanta. Contact Carla Barnes of EOTM to get started!

Become a Warren Buffet of Atlanta! Your 1st Investment Starts HERE!

Listen to EOTM Real Estate Radio Now!

The Warren Buffets of Atlanta

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 22:45:29 -0700

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43P8gM73ixA

Carla Barnes discusses the Foreclosure market in Atlanta.

EOTM's New Real Estate Investment Club - Just Launched!

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 21:29:48 -0700

EOTM Real Estate Investment Club - Your Premier Source For Turnkey Investments

Who You Do Business With Is Everything!

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro you probably realize the most important factor that will determine your success as a Real Estate Investor is your ability to find great real estate investments.

EOTM Real Estate Investments is the premier source for lucrative real estate investment opportunities in and around Atlanta. We focus on finding and packaging real estate investments for investors of all levels. Opportunities include pre-construction, condos and condo-conversions, distressed properties, apartments, and partnerships of all types.

We strive to set the standard for our industry and inspire others by raising the bar on providing exceptional real estate investment opportunities.

Each week you'll receive an informative article along with our featured investment opportunity.

Join Now, Memberships are Free!

EOTM Real Estate Investment Group

Hand picked real estate investment opportunities.
Real estate investing tips, advice, news and articles.

www.eotmrealestateinvestmentclub.com

Things to Consider when Interviewing Property Management Companies

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 21:45:26 -0700

Lately, we have been getting a sleu of new requests for our property management services here in Atlanta from Homeowners/Investors wanting to know what they should look for when picking a property manager. Its a great question, and I’ll try to cover a few important points. I’m going to ask more questions then I’ll answer, but these are questions you’ll want to keep in mind when interviewing managers.

1 - Cost: Managers generally charge a monthly fee to watch and maintain your property. Those fees can range from as low as 5% or so, to upwards of 20%. Obviously, you should look for a company that charges less and provides more services.

2 - Communication: For me, communication any company rendering services to the public is of the utmost importance. I need someone who uses email, and is responsive to both the telephone and email. If I don’t get a response back in a timely manner, it is time to walk. In addition, you need someone who can deal with you and your idiosynchricies. Some of us are needier then others. You want to let companies know up front where you stand, and make sure they’re willing to be flexible for you.

3 - Termination of your Agreement: In the event that your “relationship” does not work out, you want to know up front what exactly it will take to terminate your agreement. Is there a charge for breaking your contract? Penalties?

4 - Repairs and Maintenance: Does the company have their own maintenance crew, or do they contract out to a handyman? How much do they bill out at? Can they handle all kinds of repairs? What happens if they can’t do something? Do they have other contractors that they work with?

In addition, you probably want to have a maximum that the company can spend without contacting you. Generally, most will allow managers to do what they need to as long as it is for something under $200. You should confirm any expenses over that.

If you are a bit more of a control person, you can also request invoices/reciepts for expenses.

5 - Monthly Statements: Does the company send out monthly or quarterly statements. You should not deal with anyone that does not provide monthly income/expense statements.

6 - Evictions: How does the company handle evictions? What are the costs to evict?

7 - Yard Work: How much do they bill yard work out at? Landscaping? Do they handle snow removal? Mow lawns? How much does each cost?

8 - Reserves: What kind of reserve does the company require? The reserves are used in case anything comes up. Most managers will require a certain amount.

9 - Accounting: When will the manager mail your check to you? Beginning of the month? State laws usually dictate accounting rules for managers, but you wo want to know all of this up front. Tenant Deposits: How do they handle deposits? Are they comingled, or simply put together with all other income for your account?

10 - Vacancies: I’ve actually interviewed companies that will charge you 1/2 a month’s rent to one full month once vacany is filled. This is standard.

11 - Advertising: Where do they advertise properties? Are for rent signs put on the property’s lawn? Do they advertise in the paper? Online? There are quite a few effective places to advertise properties for free, online. Do they use these? In addition, you want your property advertised effectively. Do they have the basic HTML skills to add images to their for rent ads online? This makes a huge difference, trust me.

12 - Section 8 or Tax Credit: Do they have experience dealing with section 8 properties / tenants? Do they know what is entailed with such properties?

I also like to know how many properties they manage, how many managers work at the company, what specific areas they focus on, how long they have been in the business, and other questions about their experience. This should be a good start to get you going. Feel free to check out our site to learn about our services and fees. We currently manage properties in Atlanta and surrounding Cities.

Changing The Game In Real Estate

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:06:40 -0700

EOTM Real Estate Group Announces

The H.O.M.E. Initiative

EOTM Real Estate Group launches the H.O.M.E. Initiative. A new program dedicated to helping those homeowners that were directly affected by the Mortgage Meltdown. Launching programs and seminars whereas these consumers can get back on track to homeownership, being educated on the process along the way.

Accelerating Positive Change In The Mortgage Industry

EOTM Real Estate Group is stepping up to the plate. Taking responsibility for having played a part in making the Real Estate/Mortgage Industry what it is today.

"EOTM Real Estate Group's Community Building Initiative is to right a wrong, so to speak. Creating hope, sooner rather than later. Building stronger building blocks, the kind that will withstand storms and leave a legacy for our children. An initiative that is needed". Carla Barnes, President of EOTM Real Estate Group says.

Community Building Activists

The EOTM Real Estate Group's community initiative will first and foremost help find quality homes for qualified individuals. "It's such an unfortunate situation, considering these hardworking families have probably filed bankruptcy as a means to try and save their homes. Making it almost impossible for owners/property managers to rent to them." Carla Barnes says. EOTM will be placing the candidates in homes for 12 - 24 months under a rental agreement or lease to purchase. Within that time frame these families will work hand in hand with credit coaches, debt consolidation experts and other mortgage/real estate professionals to help put them back on track to homeownership.

EOTM will be offering free seminars online and traditonal in the hopes of educating consumers .. tips they need to know before obtaining their next mortgage. Understanding credit, how it works and more. Helping to turn the once subprime borrower into prime borrowers. Building stronger communities in the process.

EOTM currently has homes available to rent or lease with option all across Atlanta and quickly expanding into other regions.

Helping to build stronger communities is the ultimate goal. Investors, Lenders, Builders, lock arms with EOTM Real Estate Group Today. Bring the H.O.M.E. initiative into your community.

"A Home Is a Terrible Thing To Waste, Next Time You Buy Make The Decision To Keep It"

Are You a Mortgage or Real Estate Professional? Join our initiative, contact Carla for more info @ 678.548.9466

http://www.eotmrealestategroup.com

What Does The Rental Market Look Like in Atlanta? You Ask....

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 21:24:26 -0700

Helpful information for Investors & Renters…

In light of the continuing housing market decline, Real Estate professionals have seen a rental market boom particularly in highly populated metro areas like Atlanta. Various rental reports demonstrate market factors like job growth definitely influences local rents differently. However, the broader trend in the data indicates the rental market continues to strengthen nationally, which is a hopeful finding to say the least amidst the mortgage meltdown. One factor that we are seeing are the increased number of renters waiting out the market coupled with investors and property owners who are buying foreclosed homes at lower prices and allowing EOTM Properties to manage them as rentals.

Thinking of Moving to Atlanta?

Well, now is a great time to do a move to the Atlanta area. The home rental market is alive and thriving and there appears to be a good supply of desirable houses and condominiums on the market and rents are very reasonable. If you see a property you like, then be prepared to place a rent holding deposit and secure it. Use EOTM Properties, Featured Listings as your base of operations in locating your Atlanta or Surrounding area home to lease, Bookmark our site now.

When beginning your search for a property to rent, it is a good idea to obtain local maps and guides. Use the internet mapping services like Yahoo! Maps to find a property under consideration. Then use driving instructions, just right off the map, to get directions and find out how far it is from your job or other landmark.

Gather information you will need to complete the rental application in advance. You may need the name, phone number and address for current and prior employers, current and prior landlords name and phone number, your current and prior addresses, bank account info. in case of emergency contact person and their phone number. And, of course, bring your checkbook with two blank checks, one for the application fee and one for rent holding deposit.

When calling a management company to inquiry about renting a property, provide the following information. This will allow the agent to help you find what you are looking for in the most efficient manner. You will get attention faster by naming the address of the property you are interested in.

1. What area of Atlanta are you interested in? Name the county and/or city.
2. What is the rent range you are looking for?
3. How soon can you move in?
4. What type and size home are you looking for?
5. How long of a lease are you looking for? (Most houses have a 12 month minimum)
6. Who will move in with you?
7. Do you have pets? If so, describe the type, breed, size.

Here is some general information about renting a home in Atlanta. However, each company sets their own policies and this is merely general information to help you, the rental prospect understands what's involved.

Applications fees in Atlanta average about $50. Security deposits are normally equal to one month's rent and are due in certified funds at time of move in. A rent holding deposit equal to the first months rent is generally due with the application and may hold the property for you, once approved. Pet fees or deposits vary among landlords. Always ask how much is refundable. Unfortunately for pet owners, it is getting harder to find owners willing to accept pets, especially large pets or certain breeds.

The rental term for a home lease usually is for a minimum 12 months but up to 24 month or longer are available in some cases. You should specify on the rental application what needs to be done before you move in. Only about some of the houses come with refrigerators and most do not come with washer or dryers. Most apartments do come with refrigerators. Window covering may or may not be left with the property. It is best to specify on the application whether these items remain.

Always sign a lease agreement, do not move in with only a verbal agreement. Written move in inspections are mandatory and are in your best interest. Always get a copy of the inspection at time of move in.

Most landlords will only lease a vacant property for a future move in up to 2 or 3 weeks without the rent starting.

I hope this helps in your search for a home to rent. Please feel free to submit any questions you may have and I promise to respond within 48 hours.

carla@eotmrealestategroup.com

PS: Find An Home To Rent or Lease at EOTM Real Estate Group.com

Investors download a copy of our Summary of Services today.

We Need Property in Hapeville For Our Qualified Prospects

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:04:53 -0700

We are currently seeking properties in the hapeville, east point, fairburn area for our qualified prospects. 3, 4, 5 and 6 bedroom homes!

Allow us the opportunity to place great tenants in your investment properties for 1-2 years! Contact Carla Barnes for more details on our Property Management and Tenant Placement Services @ 678.548.9466

http://www.eotmrealestategroup.com

We Manage Atlanta's Rental Property

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 21:57:14 -0700

Whether you just purchased an investment property or have been managing your
property yourself, it can be a particularly time-consuming and frustrating
endeavor - especially if you reside outside of ....Atlanta..... Let our expert team handle the
management for you.

We manage rental homes in ....Atlanta....
and Surrounding areas.

EOTM Properties eliminates the headaches and handles everything
associated with your investment, including:

• Advertising - In today's market everything is done
online and that is our focus with advertising to find tenants. ....Georgia....
is one of the fastest growing states, with many people moving here. Online
advertising is the best way to reach these potential tenants. In addition
to online advertising, we have signs posted on the property and surrounding
areas, we work with the hiring and relocation departments of major employers in
the area, colleges, etc. We specialize in guerilla marketing techniques.

• Full tenant screening - We take care of showing your
home, getting completed applications and conducting extensive screening of
applicants. Including Credit, Eviction and Criminal background checks along
with rental history and employment verification. We present all our
screening information to the owner for a final decision. We make sure all the
legal documents (lease, addendum's, move in packet, etc.) and monies owed are
signed prior to receiving keys and possession.

• Accounting - We utilize a state of the art
accounting system to track your investment property. This system maintains all
current and outstanding charges for tenants, legal actions, receivables,
maintenance history and expenses, and provides detailed monthly accounting.
Summary reports, and year end spread sheets are available as needed, in
addition to the annual 1099 tax forms which are helpful with your tax
preparation and property performance evaluation.

• Rent Collection - We process rent efficiently, and
in most cases can guarantee it to the owner by the 10th of the month. In the
event that a tenant does not pay on time, our legal actions to collect rent or
evict the tenant will proceed promptly and accurately. In cases where
additional legal knowledge or representation is necessary, we have attorneys
available 24 hours a day who specialize in the area of landlord / tenet law,
evictions and collections.

• Maintenance - Protection and upkeep of your
investment is of paramount importance to maintaining property value and happy
tenants. We have access to an excellent pool of handymen and other professional
service personnel. We receive NONE of our revenue from vendors or repair
billings. A reserve fund of $300 is maintained in the account at all times; any
repair over $200 will require owner’s prior approval. Emergency maintenance
calls are handled on a 24hr. a day basis in order to ensure the safety and well
being of the property and the tenant.

• H.O.A - We can setup service with the Home Owners
Association to handle all communication and notices. This results in less
headaches and stress for you due to quicker response to HOA violations /
notices and billings.

• Inspections - To ensure that the tenants are taking
proper care of the property and that there are no ongoing safety or security
hazards to the property, periodic "drive by inspections" are
conducted on a scheduled monthly basis. We also do weekly security checks on
vacant properties, as well as interior inspections as the need calls for.

• Fees - We charge a small startup fee to begin
advertising your home for rent and to set up your account. Once we find and place
the tenant we charge a small commission as our placement fee. The monthly
property management fee is accessed each month once rent is collected from
tenant. We offer direct ACH payments for processing rental payments to Owners
and Investors.

Contact Us today for a quick market analysis of your most prized investment
@ 678.548.9466 or visit us online at www.eotmrealestategroup.com.

Time Management Can Be Achieved with 5 Key Work Areas

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 17:25:26 -0700

Stop Spending All Your Time on the Little Stuff.

This year is already moving pretty fast, therefore, your time management needs a quick pick me up.

If you're ready to grow your business and generate sales you have to function in an environment that facilitates execution. I've accomplished the almost impossible in the last year with my new launch and brands.

How did I do it?

I Broke My Growth Barriers and Divided Up My Time.

If you're ready to grow and need a little push, here are six broad categories to divide your time and what three activities you can start with. Other type of work can be added customized to your business:

Client Work – Clients or customers. This includes providing services and products to them.

· Follow Up to Questions, Requests, and Inquiries from Clients

· Update, Organize, and/or Finish Client Projects and Research

· Create Quarterly Communication Program for Announcements, Special Offers, and New Product Introductions

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Administrative Work – This includes paperwork, phone calls, email, scheduling and other busy work to keep the business running.

· Work a formatted daily activity sheet that includes all those things you HAVE to do to keep the business running – phone calls, emails, scheduling, checking messages, going through mail, etc. Spend only one hour per day doing your daily activities first thing in the morning.

· Maintain your daily to do list (things higher level than daily activities) by keeping your list in a spiral notebook and dates each page. Write all details for each to-do and check off as you complete.

· Check your project folders and update details, dates, and delivery schedules.

Strategy Work – This is your center of taking action on anything, strategic planning, reading, cont. education, documenting, etc.

· Commit to strategic planning at least 5 hours per week.

· Check your goals, milestones, and actions and update progress and results.

· Engage in market research, product research, and new technologies research each week.

Marketing Work – You want to spend your time persuading your target audience to buy what you're selling.

· Post a Blog Entry every week.

· Write a new Article every week and post on directories.

· Work your marketing plan every day.

Procrastination Work – This work involves sitting around feeling bad because you're not doing what you were suppose to do so you do something else.

Don't worry procrastination work is a valid way to divide up your time. There aren't three activities because it's defined by you. Try to come up with your procrastination schedule to determine your BEST procrastination activities. Once you see the things you do, you probably won't do them anymore.

If your environment is not conducive to how you conduct business it will be very hard to complete simple tasks -- so get organized and divide your time.

Entrepreneurs Are Selling Dreams Instead of Reality

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 16:51:51 -0700

I was chatting with one of my assistants about social media and marketing. We were talking about how many business owners are really achieving the success they proclaim or are they glorifying their success in order to get your business.

I know…a touchy yet intriguing topic.

We decided that a lot of people are selling dreams instead of reality whether they are online or offline, it doesn't matter. Marketing 101 is about appealing to the needs and wants of your target market with emotional triggers, dynamic verbiage and subliminal messages. Here are a few things to watch out for when looking for resources, education, training, coaching, consulting, and everything in between to help you start, grow, and explode your small business:

1. Don't Believe the Hype! We've all heard this one in one form or another but we get so engrossed in trying to find someone or something to help us that we can't tell the difference between hype and real information. With the influx of reality TV, the line between real and fake is very thin. Take the time to try before you buy big and learn how to ask questions and listen to answers in a way that allows you to decide if it's hype or real.

2. Entrepreneurs Who Can Sell the Pants off of Anyone. How can you combat this one? Sharpen Your Sales Skills! I'm a great sales person but I'm not interested in a numbers game or selling the pants off of you. By understanding marketing and selling 101 and 102 you'll be better equipped to recognize hype and scare tactics 10 miles away. The more experience and understanding you have, the better prepared you are to avoid bad decisions and those that are selling dreams.

3. Actually Contact People you see on Testimonial Lists. Treat testimonials as a referral and contact them to get feedback. If their web site isn't listed just Google their name and business name. If it's hard to find the people listed then call the company and ask for specific numbers to get feedback.

4. Beware of the "Self-Promotion" Videos. Here's a direct quote from a team member when asked what do you think of those videos for promoting yourself and your business, "I don't want to hear how great you are, I would believe you more if you showed me a video with you in a room full of people that hired you vs. telling me about it from a web cam in your office." Don't get me wrong, self promotion is great; but even though you're home based you still have to be professional. Put your best suit on and show me how to do something rather than telling me your story and how I can have the same success as you. Show me how! I'm not saying discount those that do this, you just have do a little more detective work to find out if they're success is real. Beware is really Be Aware.

5. Information that Focuses on Sell Sell Sell. This is a big one, because a lot of business owners are focused on how many they can sell vs. how many they can serve and help. Yeah, they may say they help you, but check it out for yourself.

6. Look out for Wanna-Be's or People That do this for an Extra Buck. Make sure your resource does this for a living and it's not a gimmick or a get rich quick business. I think I can end this one on that note.

7. Are They Worth Your Business. Looks, referrals, alliances, personal introductions – all are great and should be looked at as opportunities. But is that well respected resource or referral really worth your business? For example, their picture conveys professionalism, their client list is phenomenal, and they have a huge following, but you need to really stop and think about how they can help you. Are their services what you really need?

All this is to help you recognize and demand real solutions, real value, and real relationships that puts you in perpetual motion towards real goals. Basically, check people out before you buy!

Here's to promoting, selling and providing real solutions that help people thrive!

Can You Afford To Rent To a Bad Tenant?

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 09:29:18 -0800

PROBLEM TENANTS ARE EXPENSIVE…

Industry surveys show that over $5 billion is lost each year to tenants
who write bad checks, skip payments, leave significant property damage
or are evicted.
CAN YOU AFFORD TO BE PART OF THIS STATISTIC?
Quality resident screening is the key to success in owning and managing
rental property.
EOTM Properties is Atlanta’s premier property management, tenant
screening service. Contact us for a free rental analysis of your most
prized investment. Allow us to be your new friends in the Property
Management Business.

http://www.eotmrealestategroup.com – Direct number – 678.548.9466 ask for Carla Barnes

We Manage Atlanta's Rental Property

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 15:52:07 -0800

We manage rental homes in Atlanta and Surrounding areas.

EOTM Properties eliminates the headaches and handles everything associated with your investment, including:

• Advertising - In today's market everything is done online and that is our focus with advertising to find tenants. Georgia is one of the fastest growing states, with many people moving here. Online advertising is the best way to reach these potential tenants. In addition to online advertising, we have signs posted on the property and surrounding areas, we work with the hiring and relocation departments of major employers in the area, colleges, etc. We specialize in guerilla marketing techniques.

• Full tenant screening - We take care of showing your home, getting completed applications and conducting extensive screening of applicants. Including Credit, Eviction and Criminal background checks along with rental history and employment verification. We present all our screening information to the owner for a final decision. We make sure all the legal documents (lease, addendum's, move in packet, etc.) and monies owed are signed prior to receiving keys and possession.

• Accounting - We utilize a state of the art accounting system to track your investment property. This system maintains all current and outstanding charges for tenants, legal actions, receivables, maintenance history and expenses, and provides detailed monthly accounting. Summary reports, and year end spread sheets are available as needed, in addition to the annual 1099 tax forms which are helpful with your tax preparation and property performance evaluation.

• Rent Collection - We process rent efficiently, and in most cases can guarantee it to the owner by the 10th of the month. In the event that a tenant does not pay on time, our legal actions to collect rent or evict the tenant will proceed promptly and accurately. In cases where additional legal knowledge or representation is necessary, we have attorneys available 24 hours a day who specialize in the area of landlord / tenet law, evictions and collections.

• Maintenance - Protection and upkeep of your investment is of paramount importance to maintaining property value and happy tenants. We have access to an excellent pool of handymen and other professional service personnel. We receive NONE of our revenue from vendors or repair billings. A reserve fund of $300 is maintained in the account at all times; any repair over $200 will require owner’s prior approval. Emergency maintenance calls are handled on a 24hr. a day basis in order to ensure the safety and well being of the property and the tenant.

• H.O.A - We can setup service with the Home Owners Association to handle all communication and notices. This results in less headaches and stress for you due to quicker response to HOA violations / notices and billings.

• Inspections - To ensure that the tenants are taking proper care of the property and that there are no ongoing safety or security hazards to the property, periodic "drive by inspections" are conducted on a scheduled monthly basis. We also do weekly security checks on vacant properties, as well as interior inspections as the need calls for.

• Fees - We charge a small startup fee to begin advertising your home for rent and to set up your account. Once we find and place the tenant we charge a small commission as our placement fee. The monthly property management fee is accessed each month once rent is collected from tenant. We offer direct ACH payments for processing rental payments to Owners and Investors.

Contact Us today for a quick market analysis of your most prized investment @ 678.548.9466 or visit us online at www.eotmrealestategroup.com.

Atlanta Property Managers

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 08:15:58 -0800

If in these tough economic times, you currently own a house you can't or
don't want to sell because of the current deflation in home values, why
not rent your home until conditions improve! Use the income to pay the
house payment. EOTM Properties will help you find a
qualified tenant and take on the responsibility of managing the property
for you!

For those of you who already own rental properties and are tired of
managing your own properties, let EOTM Properties
save you time and frustration by relieving you of these responsibilities.

Our management services include finding a qualified tenant; lease
negotiations, lease execution, security deposit and rent collection; property maintenance, repairs and rehabilitation, preparation and delivery of
monthly reports with checks deposited via ACH.

Contact us today for a free consultation on your most prized investment!

Ask for Carla Barnes – 678.548.9466 or 678.583.4950

Download a copy of our summary of services now -

http://eotmrealestategroup.com/propertymanagement.aspx

EOTM Real Estate Radio ~ Real Estate Investing in 2009 ~

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 15:35:33 -0800

Listen to EOTM's Real Estate Radio Show!

Click Here To Listen LIVE!

Join Our Real Estate Panel January 5th @ 9pm est. Email me to Join Our Panel @ carla@eotmrealestategroup.com

Investors have clearly felt the pinch of a capital crunch and slumping U.S. economy. In fact, 60% of real estate investors cite availability of financing as their top concern in 2009 – according to a recent study conducted by Marcus & Millichap and National Real Estate Investor.

The cost and availability of capital remain top concerns for investors as illiquidity in capital markets continues to drag down investment real estate sales. Most respondents are not optimistic that access to capital will improve anytime soon. Nearly 40% of respondents expect debt financing to be more difficult to obtain a year from now, while 37% expect financing to be about the same, and 23% expect it to be easier to obtain.

Refinancing could pose some added challenges to an already cash-strapped market.

Nearly 40% of respondents say they need to refinance at least a portion of their portfolio in the coming year. The greatest hurdles to refinancing cited by respondents are underwriting terms (45%), economic factors (44%), and higher cost of capital (36%).

Slow Economic Recovery

Although much of the economic news of late has been bleak, respondents appear split on where the economy is headed. One-third of respondents (33%) believe the economy will be stronger a year from now, 30% predict a weaker economy, and 30% expect things to be about the same.

The decline in the residential housing market has been one of the main culprits behind the economic downturn. Mounting job losses also are a concern. The U.S. unemployment rate hit 6.5% at the end of October—the highest level in 14 years. That number excludes those unemployed for over 12 months, likely pushing the real unemployment rate to over 12%.

The upcoming change in presidential leadership will add another dynamic to the short-term outlook for the real estate market. Some 60% of respondents expect the change to result in increases to capital gains tax rates, while half expect the change to result in increased oversight of financial markets, and 37% anticipate changes in tax laws pertaining to private equity.

The Housing Market

A recovery in the residential market will be the key to restoring consumer confidence and pulling the U.S. economy out of the doldrums. Although home values are still depressed, the housing market is likely near the bottom with respect to new home permits and job losses in residential construction.

A reversal of fortune in the housing market is not likely to occur until mid- or late 2010, but the worst of the slump is probably over, notes Arthur Jones, a senior economist with CBRE Torto Wheaton Research in Boston.

Respondents clearly believe that more than one fix is in order for the market to return to more “normalized” sales activity. Although the majority of respondents (68%) say that financing needs to become more readily available in order for normalcy to return, another 48% also say that sellers need to discount properties more, and 36% say buyers need to realize that prices are adjusting, but are unlikely to crash.

More than half of respondents (52%) expect the housing market to stabilize in one to two years, while an additional 21% predict that it will take longer than two years to stabilize.

What is clear today is that in order for investment activity to rebound, debt markets need to open back up, and there needs to be a further adjustment in overall sale prices.

Your 2009 Investment Strategy

You will find some of your best real estate buying opportunities over the next 12 months.

U.S. house prices in November were down 18.0% annualized compared to a year ago according to the Case-Shiller 20-city home price index. Prices are expected to continue dropping in many markets although the rate will likely flatten out. As part of that decline, home owners, banks, builders and developers will continue to lower prices in an effort to sell their properties and reduce inventory.

Interest rates continue to float near historic lows. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of these low rates. The key will be good personal credit as credit markets remain tight and are expected to stay that way into the new year. However, don’t let poor credit stop you if you are able to partner with other like-minded real estate investors. 50% of a good deal is always better than 100% of no deal.

Work with a trusted agent or real estate investment firm to help you find well researched investment property in growth markets. Your primary investment strategy in 2009 should be the acquisition of cash flow investment property with a holding period of three years or more.

Run your numbers to ensure you have a solid investment providing you a positive cash flow and strong appreciation potential. Once you’ve satisfied your investment criteria, move forward and make your offer.

A Little Insight For Real Estate Investing in 2009…

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:46:21 -0800

Tired of the volatility of the stock market but want to grow your nest egg or you want to take advantage of the recent real estate crash, then an investment property might just be right for you.

When buying property solely as an investment there are a number of things to take into account, both short and long term. From where to buy property, to who will manage and live in the property you’re purchasing. That’s where we come in, we are here to help you research, learn, understand, buy a property that fits your needs and eventually finding a qualified tenant for your most prized investment.

Below are a few tips to keep in mind in terms of Real Estate investing:

Starting Out Small

If you’re new to real estate investment, think about purchasing an in-law unit or constructing a separate unit on your existing home. Or buy small. It's a great way to get started in the property investment area with little capital, risk, and time.

Another option for a new investor is to buy a duplex and live in the top or bottom floor, or create a second home that acts as a vacation unit. These are good ways to get into the game without putting up a lot of capital—these types of investments are cheaper and very easy to manage. If managing a rental property is not your cup of tea, you can always hire a professional property management company to look after your property, allow a professional the burden of screening and finding new tenants. Visit EOTM Properties to become acclimated with the process.

In-law suites are a great way to offset your mortgage payment and you will be able to write off the depreciation of the unit and the appliances in the unit. Plus, when and if you sell the home, you can include the cash flow from this unit in the price. But you need to be aware of zoning laws for your city and neighborhood, specifically for an in-law unit or an addition.

However, if you have an in-law unit, you will have what is probably the most negative aspect: someone living in your residence. But if the house is structured with a separate entrance, kitchen, and bathroom, you'll still have the freedom and privacy of your home.

If not, you might want a friend or relative to live in the in-law, which will make the conditions much more pleasurable. Conflicts can always arise but with some borders between your living spaces, things should go smoothly.

Similarly, with a duplex, your neighbor can conceivably pay for your home, but you are again in closer quarters with your tenant. But if you're starting out and are young, these are not bad options. Look for a duplex that makes separate living very easy, and comes with good parking and a separate stairway for the upper unit.

The other option is renting out your second home or vacation unit. Again, you run the risk of having the tenant in the unit when you might want to use it. But the IRS gives you two weeks of tax free rental income each year for second home landlords, which could be worth the intrusion. I know someone who has a large house near Bakersfield California where the rooms have been split up and he rents the unit out to snow boarders and skiers. The house even has closets that function as lockers. There are ways to generate cash flow, reduce your taxes, and get into the investment property game. Sometimes, the key is to be creative.

Think about ways you can satisfy a demand, whether it’s in a ski area or near the beach, or maybe it’s an condo in Atlanta just near Turner Field, the spring training practices for Major League Baseball. Each spring you'll have a waiting list for baseball enthusiasts looking for a place to stay.

TIP: Don’t Sell Income-Generating Property. When you sell it you have to pay taxes and you lose the cash flow. Consider that you can still refinance and then pull out equity, or use equity to buy another property.

Give up that cash flow only if you know there’s a downturn coming in the market or perhaps new rent control for the property you own. Or maybe there’s huge growth and demand in the area you own property, and you can make a substantial gain by selling. Take these factors into consideration before you make that decision.

The condition of the industry today is great for the individuals that can buy. With tons of home going under foreclosures and home values depreciating it is definitely a smart time to grab your piece of the pie.

HINT: Allow a property manager to run your properties. It will take a cut of your profits, but frees you up and you don’t have to worry about day to day issues. Better management practices often result in higher occupancy. Think entrepreneurial, not managerial.

Foreclosure Search - http://www.realtytrac.com/pub/landing/landingmedia.asp?optimized=3&StateSel=&accnt=12494

Buying a Foreclosed Home as a Rental Property

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 21:53:16 -0800

Consider key factors about a foreclosed home before you buy it as a rental property.

Some investors are eager to purchase single-family homes in foreclosure, hoping to take advantage of low prices and then turn a profit by renting the properties to tenants. But many of these buyers are not experienced landlords, and even experienced landlords often fail to consider crucial factors that will make the purchase of a foreclosed home a success or failure as a rental property.

Wise buyers will consider such things as the neighborhood in which the home is located, how the home has been maintained, and whether any existing tenants who rented from the prior owner will remain after the purchase. Here’s a rundown of the things you should consider before you buy a foreclosed property with the intention of renting it out.

Why the Rash of Foreclosures in Some Areas?

A sad fact of sub-prime life is that in many areas of the country, whole neighborhoods are awash in foreclosures. Typically, these areas were hastily built by developers eager to take advantage of the seemingly endless appreciation of real estate, and they all came crashing down when the purchasers (and in some cases, the developers) became unable to meet their mortgages or construction loan payments. For hard numbers on the incidence of foreclosure in your area, use Realty Trac (www.realtytrac.com) to check the concentration of foreclosures by Zip code.

Will You Deal With a Bank or a Homeowner?

Purchasing a foreclosed home may not be the home-buying experience you might imagine. Instead of dealing with motivated individual sellers, anxious to showcase their home by staging it and working closely with their broker, most buyers will encounter an institution -- a bank’s asset management department, where it’s hard to reach and converse with an individual, let alone the same individual each time. Don’t expect quick turnaround and individual attention by people who have the authority to make decisions. Instead, you may find yourself dealing with a department that knows banking but not home selling and stops answering the phone at 5 PM sharp.

However, if you are lucky enough to buy a home in preforeclosure (preforeclosure is the period after the homeowner has received a notice of default but still has months before the auction takes place), often you can negotiate a deal with the homeowner instead of the bank.

Consider the Neighborhood

A key factor in the success of your rental is the neighborhood. In general, a rental in an area dotted with foreclosures is likely to command less rent when foreclosed properties remain unsold and, more importantly, unoccupied. These forlorn properties are likely to be unmaintained and are targets for vandalism and even squatters. Few tenants will want to join the ranks in such a neighborhood, and those that do may expect the rent to reflect these negative attributes. When making a bid on such a property, factor in the realistic rent the house can command.

A neighborhood of foreclosed homes bodes ill even if they have been purchased and are in relatively good shape. All of these homes aren’t going to be occupied by the owners -- many will be rented out, just as yours will be. That makes for a concentration of rentals -- in short, a glut on the market, which will drive prices down. The same property in a different part of town might fetch a higher rent simply because there is less competition.

A foreclosed property in good condition located in a neighborhood with few other foreclosures will most likely fetch higher rent. Of course, such a property may command a higher selling price as well.

Our goal is to educate the consumer on one of the biggest investments you will ever make. Please feel free to contact Carla Barnes of EOTM Properties today for a quick analysis of the market you are looking to buy in, we are here for that investor in YOU!

Carla Barnes

Direct: 678.548.9466

Email: carla@eotmrealestategroup.com

Website: http://www.eotmrealestategroup.com

Carla B’s Ten “NO MONEY DOWN” Ways to Buy Real Estate

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:46:51 -0700

Turn the Television on any Sunday morning and you’ll find yourself in the middle of a “how to buy real estate” infomercial. Can you really buy a house with no down payment? Can you really make thousands or millions of dollars buying real estate? Of course the answer is “yes” and “no”. The real question is, are you willing to pay anywhere from $500 to $8000 for the information, classes and hotline? Most important are you self -disciplined enough to follow the program?

Before you spend money on these expensive programs, here are my top ten “no money down” ways to buy real estate. If you’re self disciplined and willing to hear the word “no” many times before you get a “yes”, then maybe you can buy a house without a down payment.

1. First is to check out the many new zero down programs now available from lenders. Especially if you’re a fist time buyer. Also FHA and VA have loans that may not be zero down, but are very close.

2. Borrow money for the down payment – Borrow the money from family, friends or a business partner at a high interest rate or a percentage of the profit when the property is sold

3. Raise the price and lower the terms – Offer the seller more than he is asking provided he is willing to accept the down payment in the form of a note. If the seller is asking $150,000 with $15,000 down and willing to carry the balance of $135,000. Try offering $155,000 in the form of a promissory not instead of cash. The seller gets a little more money for the additional risk.

4. Borrow against a life insurance policy – Many life insurance policy’s let you borrow against the policy for the purpose of investing in real estate or other investments.

5. Use other property as collateral – Create a note on existing property that you or a partner own and use it as the down payment for the property you are buying.

6. Home equity loan – Home equity loans are generally easy to qualify for as long as there is adequate equity in the property.

7. Seller refinance – Have the seller refinance the property, receiving the cash he needs from the proceeds of the new loan, the buyer gives the seller a note for the balance of the seller’s equity.

8. Find an investor – There are many people who have money but no time. Their current profession keeps them too busy. Work out a deal where they put up the money and you split the profits when you sell.

9. Lease with option to purchase – Lease a property with the right to buy it at some future time. Provide for the rental payment to be credited towards the down payment if you decide to exercise your option. Visit our site today we have homes that are currently available under the lease option program.

10. Give them something they need – If the seller is planning to purchase something in the future that you own or can buy, use it as a trade. This can be anything such as furniture, boat or motor home.

My goal is to educate the consumer on one of the largest investments you may ever make. Feel free to submit all your questions and I will respond within 48 hours.

www.eotmrealestategroup.com

EOTM's Radio Real Estate Empowerment Hour - Join Us

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 03:59:49 -0700

Hello fellow Active Rain Members! We have a Real Estate Show airing on Sunday, June 22nd at 9pm est. and would like to invite Realtors and other mortgage professionals to be a guest on our Real Estate panel. These segments are geared towards educating consumers on all areas of Real Estate. If you have a niche, information to share, new programs, etc. and would like to join us please call in @ 718.664.6543. The show starts promptly at 9pm est. There will also be an opportunity for you to advertise your website and other contact information.

We have also just recently launched our H.O.M.E. Initiative whereas we are helping individuals and families that were directly effected by the mortgage crisis. You can find more info on this new effort by visiting http://eotmrealestategroup.com/homeinitiative.aspx

Contact me if you are interested in joining the Real Estate segment.

www.blogtalkradio.com/entrepreneursonthemove

A Referral Is a Terrible Thing To Waste

Property Management In Atlanta - Carla Barnes (EOTM Properties, LLC) — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:12:27 -0700