The bad news is endless these days. The economy is rough, lenders are suffering, the US dollar is fading, and foreclosures are abounding. Pick up a paper, turn on the news, or read online and you're bound to find it. The reality is frustrating, but it's still reality.

The good news is that just because lenders are drying up their own resources, doesn't mean your options are all drying up as well. Despite the news, the skeptics, and the problems, this is the time to be buying. I've said it before and say it again now, it's a great time for seller financing.

Look almost anywhere in the country and there are plenty of people in very difficult positions right now, who need options. They need someone who understands how to help them.

First, there are numerous ways to offer any seller options out of their properties that can save both you as a buyer/investor and the seller time, money, and credit. Here's a few ideas for you to research and get a better feel for:

• Lease Options (with the ability to sublease)
• Land Contracts
• Seller Carrybacks
• Land Trusts
• Assumable Mortgages

While these aren't the only options, they are definitely being used today, and they really work. Take some time and begin researching each idea slowly. Learn what makes it good and what its pitfalls are. Then, choose the option that fits each scenario/property the very best.

Second, make sure you understand that sellers also need someone they can trust. Just because you know how to help them, doesn't mean they'll trust you to help them. Make sure you have everyone's best interests at heart. If everyone can't walk away from the transaction feeling as though it were win/win, then maybe you should rethink the deal. Seller financing is great, but it's tricky and the last thing you want is to piss off someone who is integral to getting it closed. Also, it's a great feeling to be able to sleep at night.

Tuesday's Tip: Stop looking at bank-owned properties and start getting them before the bank does. Desperate Sellers = Unlimited Options.