Tag Archive for: The Cash Flow Company

How to Make Wealth NOW in Real Estate Investing

Categories:

How to Make Wealth NOW in Real Estate Investing

In real estate investing it all comes down to leverage. Leverage or loans make up roughly 50% of what makes a successful real estate investment. Funds that are faster, easier and cheaper will consequently drive your investments and create the wealth. So, how can you make wealth now? In real estate it is imperative that you create a step by step plan regarding what you need in order to accomplish your investment goals. Let’s take a closer look at how you can get started!

First and foremost, you need leverage!

Make sure that you have the right leverage and that you are prepared before jumping into a deal. It is so easy to let your emotions drive your business decisions. In doing so, there is a tendency to overspend and get behind the eight ball. Take a step back and research your options, contact lenders, and analyze all of your numbers. In a nutshell, even if you find the right deal, yet you don’t have the money, then you really don’t have a deal at all.

Second, find the right property.

Again, take a step back and create a plan, research properties, and compare them as well. It may take a couple months to research and test things out. In taking the time to get comfortable with the process, you will in turn be more successful. You need to go through a live example and take a couple test runs in order to understand everything that is involved. Get your hands dirty and you will figure out the nitty gritty stuff down the road. It is important to not just conceptualize the project. Instead just do it! 

How do you get into the game?

As a new investor that is just getting started, it can be very daunting. There are three ways that you can get the ball rolling.

1. Find a mentor

It is helpful to find a successful real estate investor to mentor you through the process. By finding a good flipper right now, you will not only have the opportunity to invest with them, but you will be able to walk through the steps as well. Just be careful not to hand over your money to someone who will not use it properly. Do your research and take the time to find the right partnership. 

2. Look into the 12 week year program

Currently I’m working on completing a 12 week year program. This method is very structured and helps you complete a year’s worth of work in only 12 weeks. As a result, investors avoid the pitfalls and low productivity that occurs when the goals are stretched out throughout the year. 

3. Do your research every day

If you are just starting out in real estate investing, it is important that you get up every day and look at properties, contact realtors, contact wholesalers, and find lenders that will help you achieve your investment goals. The more you talk to them, the more likely they will be to work with you in the future. Now this process should only take 15 to 20 minutes, not 8 hours. If you start out slowly and build your database, then in 3 months time you will be better off compared to others who jumped in right away.

Make wealth Now!

Taking the time to get prepared, will not only increase confidence, but more importantly it will set you up for success. Likewise, you will also be able to regulate your emotions, so they will no longer dominate your business decisions. Ultimately you do need some emotions to drive your business, however, it is important to let the numbers guide your business decisions. Avoid getting behind the eight ball by making investment moves that will set you up to win the game of creating wealth. 

Watch our most recent video to find out more about how you can make wealth NOW!

Do you have more questions about setting your business correctly? Do you need additional information regarding lending options? Contact us today!

by

Investing in 2024: Why you need a HELOC

Categories:

Investing in 2024: Why you need a HELOC

Investing in 2024 will look completely different compared to years past. Investors will need more liquidity due to the increasing lending squeeze from banks. What do I mean by liquidity? Liquidity is the money that is available to you to help fund deals. These funds are not from lenders, but are instead from you. Now is the time to fill your liquidity buckets to the brim. One of the best cash reserves is a HELOC. What is a HELOC and how can it help you save for a rainy day? Let’s take a closer look.

What is a HELOC?

A HELOC, also known as home equity line of credit, provides a revolving line of credit that can be used at any time. HELOCs are normally used for large expenses, paying off high interest rate debt, and any additional expenses that you may face. Investors are feeling the pressure of the lending squeeze from both banks and credit unions. They are both driving down their loan to value percentages and putting more pressure on investors. What started at 90% LTV a year ago, has now plummeted to 75% LTV, and in some cases even 70% LTV. Loan to values are shrinking fast, so now is the time to lock everything in before it drops even further! Make sure that you get HELOCS wherever you can! This can be on your primary residence, as well as on all of your investment properties. Remember, you don’t have to use the funds from the HELOCS immediately, the money is just reserved for a rainy day. While it may cost a few hundred to close your HELOC later on, it is a great resource to have when buying properties, making payments, doing construction, or any additional expenses that come your way. 

The Time is NOW!

The goal before the end of the year is to fill your liquidity buckets! By opening a HELOC you can fill your liquidity bucket to the brim in preparation for  2024. As investors, we are all going to need these extra funds for down payments, escrow, paying contractors, as well as any other expenses that come our way.  Lenders are going to require you to be more liquid, have more reserves, and put more money down. Investors who take the time at the end of this year to prepare, will have more opportunities and a huge advantage in 2024 over those who don’t act now. 

Watch our most recent video to find out more about why you need liquidity. 

If you have any questions on liquidity, finding HELOCs, or have any other questions, please reach out to us!

We would be happy to help guide you to become more successful in 2024. 

 

by

2024 Housing Market Predictions: Why You Should Invest

Categories:

2024 Housing Market Predictions: Why You Should Invest

The question on every real estate investor’s mind is why you should invest in 2024 with the higher interest rates. There are a few things that people need to consider before investing in this market. This includes shopping wisely, evaluating repair costs, current interest rates, property location, and funding. By considering all of the factors before jumping in, real estate investors can increase their cash flow for future investments. 

Let’s take a closer look at the three things real estate investors need to consider when purchasing a property

First, Focus on the Lower End of the Market 

Since interest rates are high, you should probably focus on the lower end of the market. This includes homes that are in the $300K range and below. Affordability will be a factor when you’re flipping, because someone has to be able to afford to buy the property once repairs are completed. Thankfully, we have a good inventory shortage as investors, which in turn is creating a greater demand. Therefore, if you have a good price point and a good product, then it’s going to sell quickly. 

Second, Create a Product that People will want to Buy

Especially since you will be the one fixing up the property, it is important that you create a property people will want to buy. As real estate investors, it is crucial that you complete repairs both quickly and correctly in order to maximize your investment. By creating a nice fixed up property in this market, you will have an advantage over those who are not putting in the effort. 

Third, Consider the Impact that Interest Rates will have on your investment.

Interest rates will be a major factor when purchasing a property in this current market. However, if you can find a rental property that can break even, or better yet one that can make a little money, you should invest now to generate cash flow quickly. Interest rates should go down in the next 18 months to 2 years. When they do, you will be able to refinance and come out ahead of everyone who has been sitting on the sidelines.

Now is the time to jump in! Let’s take a look at how the market has changed and what you should avoid as you move forward.

How has the market changed?

It is the perfect time to jump in if you can buy something low. As long as you do it correctly, you should invest now while everyone is running away! Then when rates go back down, you will be able to create wealth for future investments. A few years ago many people were buying properties for $100K over asking price. In today’s market  they would be able to sell it for maybe $250K. Since they overpaid on the property a few years ago, they are now upside down on their investment. Don’t let this happen to you! As a new buyer, make sure you are purchasing it at a good number while the market is down. Over time you are going to win the game by buying at the right time.

What should you Avoid?

Getting into real estate investing now will get you on the fast track to success. If you are able to buy good properties in good markets, then you will be successful. It is important to avoid properties that are on corners or busy streets. In these times, the best properties are on a culdesac or near local parks. Real estate investors need to research current market trends before jumping in. There are some markets where cities are doing better than suburbs, while others are growing at a faster rate. Another thing to be aware of as a real estate investor is all of the negativity out there, which is driving people out of the market. Instead of following the herd, turn this negativity around so it can benefit you.There are better deals now than there were a few years ago. This is because people are fearful and want to get rid of properties before things get worse. As long as the sellers have that fear, then investors who are level headed can benefit. 

Number of Real Estate Investors is Shrinking 

There has been a whole generation of real estate investors who have gone through good times with money, banks, and lenders in the past. This was when everyone was trying to give you more money for your investments. However, the Fed is now trying to slow that down. The huge pool has gotten a little bit smaller for those who are trying to qualify for loans. This lending squeeze has resulted in many real estate investors getting out because they don’t have the credit score or income to succeed in this market. In 2024 there will be less real estate investors, less money available for funding projects, but more deals available for the driven investor.

In Conclusion

Now is the time you should invest in real estate properties! By strategically selecting properties, investors have the opportunity to grow their wealth when rates drop. If you are coming in as a new investor, it is important to make sure that you are set yourself up for success. By increasing the amount of money you bring in, and filling your liquidity buckets, you will stand out to lenders. Real estate investing is all about using other people’s money to create wealth with a little bit of your own money. By considering all of the factors and creating a plan, real estate investors will have the potential to increase their cash flow for future investments.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about investing in today’s market.

We can help you get set up to win in 2024! Contact us today!

by

Business Credit: 5 Simple Steps To Get Started

Categories:

Business Credit: 5 Simple Steps To Get Started

It is imperative that investors take the time to set up their business correctly from day one. In doing so, they can easily get onto the fast track to success. Alex Erlich, a credit advisor and educator, is joining us today to discuss the steps investors need to take to win the investment game. Let’s take a closer look to discover the five simple steps to get started.

Getting started is daunting! Here is what you need to get in it to win it.

First, Personal Credit

Make sure that your personal credit is setting you up for success. The majority of investors use their personal credit for business expenses. As a result, the utilization rate begins to have a negative impact on personal credit scores. By identifying and separating personal expenses from business expenses, you can in turn get your credit score back on track. 

Second, Identify Your Business

It is important that you not only identify the type of business you are starting, but the corresponding subcategorization as well. Banks will look at the NAICS, also known as the North American Industry Classification System, when you apply for business financing. 

Third, Select a Business Name

How do you select a name for your  business? Will there be a parent company? It is imperative that you select a business name that represents your company, and that your name is available within your state.

Fourth, Set Things Up Correctly 

Establishing the company properly through the secretary of state, applying for an EIN, applying for a business license, and opening business accounts for expenses. Setting this up correctly ensures that both lenders, as well as clients, see it as a business.

Fifth, Set Clear Goals

Be very clear with your goals from day one! Where do you want to go with your business, how many properties do you need, do you need to buy machinery? 

In Conclusion

Starting a business is overwhelming. Taking it step by step will result in not only helping your business succeed, but it will also have a positive impact on your personal life as well. We have created a guide that will help you step by step through the process of starting your business. This includes links to all of the important websites that you need for your specific state. We are here to help get you on the fast track to success.

Contact us today to find out more about setting yourself up for success.

Need more tips and tricks? Watch the full interview with Alex Erlich

 

by

A Key Lesson In Real Estate Investing: Times Versus Time

Categories:

A Key Lesson In Real Estate Investing: Times Versus Time

Throughout the years I have been able to help thousands of clients become successful in real estate investing. Looking back over my journey, there are several things that I would do differently. While there are a number of lessons I would like to share with you, I feel that Times vs Time is the most imperative to your success.

What is Times VS Time?

The question that all investors ask is, how long does it take to be successful? Success is heavily reliant on the number of times you practice the steps before you become confident in the process. The more practice you have looking properties, comparing properties, and contacting lenders, the more knowledgeable and confident you will become.

It takes 100 times to walk through these steps before an investor becomes confident in the process. Some investors can achieve this in a week, while others may take 6 months to 6 years. Again, it’s not the amount of time it takes to be successful, it’s the number of times you practice.

How can investors set up for success

It is vital that you create a process that works for you and your business. In doing so, you are then able to follow the same steps each time. As a result, it further builds the confidence you need to succeed. There are five lessons in total including: Take the fast track, Set your business up to win, Create simple processes, and Scale with flexibility. There is a bonus one as well, which is Do whatever it takes!  

 

Watch our most recent video to find out more about these 5 valuable lessons that will put you on the fast track to success. 

Have more questions on how to get started with your business and how you can win in real estate investing? Call us today! 

 

by

Starting Strong: The First 4 Steps for New Real Estate Investors

Categories:

Starting Strong: The First 4 Steps for New Real Estate Investors

How do you set your company up to win? As a new investor, there are 4 steps that new real estate investors should take. These steps will not only set you up correctly for lending, but they will also protect you in the future. As we’ve discussed before, real estate is all about money and leverage. Consequently, businesses that are not set up as an LLC or company, will not be approved for a commercial loan. By establishing your business correctly from the beginning, you will in turn set yourself up to win. So what are the four steps that a new investor should take? Let’s take a closer look!

First, Set up your business name

It is imperative that you select a business name that represents your company, and that your name is available within your state. Something to remember when selecting a business name is to not include real estate terms within the name itself. In looking into the lending world, about ⅓ of lenders find it unfavorable if you include “real estate”, “fix and flip”, or other real estate terms within the business name. To get started, go to the Secretary of State page for your specific state.  Then select the business tab, and finally locate the link to search name availability. After you have researched name availability, it is important to register your business name with your state to make it official. 

Second, Set up an EIN

Once you have successfully selected and registered your business name with the Secretary of State, it is helpful to talk with your accountant or lawyer. They can help to guide you through the process of setting things up correctly not only for your state, but for the IRS as well. Businesses need to apply for an EIN in order to open business accounts. The EIN is the federal employer identification number for business owners. It’s like a social security number for your business. This can be set up directly through the IRS website.

Third, Set up your bank account

The next step that you should take as a new investor is setting up a business bank account. It is important to set up business bank accounts as soon as possible to begin separating personal and business expenses. Lenders will often look at what you have in your bank account to assess your financial stability. By separating personal and business accounts, it can make the underwriting process go faster.

Fourth, Make yourself known

After you are correctly established as a business, it is important to make yourself known! By creating a website, securing an office space, and filing with 411, businesses can obtain a greater client base. Completing this process within the first year of forming your business, further establishes your presence within the community.

In Conclusion

As a new investor it can be overwhelming. In order to win, it’s vital that you set up your business correctly from day one. We can get you started by providing a step by step resource guide for new business owners. This guide is state specific and includes direct links that will get you on the fast track to success.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about The First 4 Steps for New Real Estate Investors

Do you have more questions about setting your business correctly? Do you need additional information regarding lending options or business credit cards? Contact us today!

by

2024 Real Estate Investing – Why You Will Need More Liquidity

Categories:

2024 Real Estate Investing – Why You Will Need More Liquidity

Investing in 2024 will require more liquidity than ever! What do I mean by liquidity? Liquidity is the money that is available to you to help fund deals. These funds are not from lenders, but are instead from you. This includes funds that you bring into your investments, the amount that you put down on a property, and the money that you have to carry on a project. Those expenses will be more important in 2024 than they have been within the last decade. What does liquidity mean in your world and how do you find it? Let’s take a look at the four “liquidity bucket” options that you can fill up now in preparation for the new year!

Liquidity Buckets for Success

1. Lock in HELOCS

Banks and credit unions are driving down their loan to value percentages. What started at 90% LTV a year ago, has now plummeted to 75% LTV, and in some cases even 70% LTV. Loan to values are shrinking fast, so lock it in now before it drops even further! Make sure that you get HELOCS wherever you can! This can be on your primary, as well as on all of your investment properties. Remember, you don’t have to use the funds from the HELOCS, the money is just reserved for a rainy day. While it may cost a few hundred to close later on, it is a great resource to have when buying properties, making payments, doing construction, or any additional expenses that come your way. 

2. Unsecured Lines of Credit

You can normally find unsecured lines of credit at larger banks such as Chase, Wells Fargo, and American Express. They have lines of credit that you can sign up for as long as you have good credit. Surprisingly, investors can receive $5K, $10K, $15K, and even $100K in unsecured lines of credit. Once again, it won’t cost you anything. By setting them up and having them on hand, the funds from the unsecured lines of credit will be available when you need them.

3. Business Credit Cards

As an investor you should already have business credit cards established. It is imperative that investors move all business expenses off of their personal credit cards and onto their business credit cards as soon as possible. This improves personal credit scores, provides opportunities for higher credit limits, and can act like a  line of credit up to your available limit. Business credit cards provide the flexibility that you need to secure your future success.

4. Peer to peer lending 

This form of lending is also known as other people’s money. These funds can come from neighbors, friends, and even groups that you are a part of. It is important to communicate with people in real estate groups, those in the community, and other groups that you are involved in. In talking about your real estate adventures and what you are doing, it will create opportunities to find others who are looking for better returns on their investments as well. There is a potential for a win-win solution for everyone involved. Peer to peer lending is the biggest untapped portion of funding available. Reach out to us for more information on how to get started.

Fill your Liquidity Buckets Today

The goal is to fill your liquidity buckets now! As investors, we are all going to need these extra funds for down payments, escrow, paying contractors, as well as any other expenses that come our way. Investors who take the time at the end of this year to prepare, will have more opportunities and a huge advantage in 2024 over those who don’t act now.  Lenders are going to require you to be more liquid, have more reserves, and put more money down. So, by having more liquidity, you will be able to easily open the doors to success.

In preparing now and filling your liquidity buckets to the brim, you will set yourself up for success come the new year! 

Watch our most recent video to find out more about why you need liquidity. 

If you have any questions on liquidity, finding HELOCs, or have any other questions, please reach out to us!

We would be happy to help guide you to become more successful in 2024. 

by

What Credit Score Do You Need To Succeed?

Categories:

What Credit Score Do You Need To Succeed?

Investors are struggling in this current economy with the impact that business expenses are having on their personal credit scores.  Alex Erlich, a credit advisor and educator, is joining us today to discuss the importance of leveraging business credit vs personal credit. Credit and debt are not equal in any shape or form, but we have to play the game to win it. 

The importance of Leverage

So many investors are putting business expenses on their personal credit. Resulting in 70-80% of clients becoming overextended on projects, and maxing out their credit cards. By separating personal and business credit, it will prevent further strain on your personal credit, increase loan eligibility, and create more leverage. What exactly do we mean by leverage? Leverage is how much you are eligible for and what it looks like on paper. Leverage is the King in real estate. Having more leverage allows for more opportunities, not only your business, but for your personal life as well. 

The ideal Credit Score

MyFico.com is the best place to obtain credit score information. This site not only provides an overall credit score, but it also separates scores into 40 different categories. It can be an information overload, however, by going straight to the source it provides you a cost free and spam free way to gather all of the information you need. So what is the ideal credit score that lenders are looking for? The ideal credit score range should be between 680 and 720. However, with the current economy, banks are increasing their minimum requirements to 720 and above. How do you get from 680 to 720? We can help you discover ways to improve your scores quickly to get you back in the game.

Don’t let your personal credit score impact your business success!

The faster you can separate your personal credit from your business credit, the better your personal credit score will be. We can guide you through the steps. From establishing your business, to finding the right business credit cards, and even providing a 911 loan, we have the tools to help you win.

Contact us today to find out more about setting yourself up for success.

Need more tips and tricks? Watch the full interview with Alex Erlich

 

by

Credit usage: business credit cards vs personal credit cards

Categories:

Credit usage: business credit cards vs personal credit cards

The majority of investors today are struggling with their personal credit score. This is due to the fact that they are putting business expenses on personal credit cards. How can you make things easier, faster, and cheaper? The answer is making the switch to business credit cards! This is a simple step that every investor should be taking to alleviate future strain on their personal credit score. By having higher credit scores, investors will in turn have more leverage to grow their business.  We can help guide you through the migration to business credit cards. 

First let’s look at Personal Credit Cards 

High credit scores are important for investors because it creates the leverage and funding they need to grow their business. Almost every investor runs up their personal credit card balance, by putting too many business charges on them. Thus, jeopardizing their personal credit score because of the high credit utilization rate. For personal credit cards, MyFico only allows for a 20% utilization rate before it impacts your credit score. However, business credit cards do not have the same restrictions. Instead, you are able to use the entire credit limit without having to worry. In having better credit scores, it opens the door to endless possibilities that will create wealth.

Next let’s look at Business Credit Cards 

Switch to business credit cards today! Business credit cards are the most important thing that investors can do to ensure success. They not only provide funding, but also the leverage required to create further growth. Many investors have heard of corporate credit and have taken the steps to get started down that path. Unfortunately, this option results in years of hard work and multiple steps before any progress can be made. Business credit cards on the other hand, are quick to set up, extremely flexible, and most importantly they will not impact your credit score. Eliminate the cash crunch by separating your personal credit from your business.

Get on the right track today!

By using personal credit cards for business expenses, you are jeopardizing your credit score and endangering the success of your business. Do not join the 80% of real estate investors who fail. Make the switch to business credit cards as soon as possible! We can help guide you through the entire process from setting up your business correctly, to researching credit cards, and can even provide usage loans to get you back on track.

Watch our most recent video to discover more about the importance of business credit cards and how we can help guide you to success.

by

This is the #1 Roadblock in Real Estate Investing

Categories:

This is the #1 Roadblock in Real Estate Investing

It is incredibly easy to get burnt out as a real estate investor. However, by knowing the roadblocks ahead of time, you can avoid many of the common mistakes. Real estate investing, unlike other businesses, relies heavily on leverage and funding. Almost everything we do from buying and holding rentals, to doing flips, and even dividing land, it is all heavily dependent on funding. Money from banks, private lenders, or even other people’s money, are vital to your success. So what’s the #1 roadblock in real estate investing? The answer is not understanding your cash flow and not knowing the numbers ahead of time.

Rushing to obtain generational wealth

Unfortunately, people go to conferences and get hyped up to make generational wealth in a short period of time. While you need emotions to guide your business, it is important to take a step back and know your numbers before diving in. Generational wealth is difficult to achieve in a three month period, however a three year timeline is feasible. By not rushing into investment opportunities, it allows you to form a game plan for success.

Understanding all of your expenses

This week we had a person contact us who didn’t understand how escrow worked, thus creating further financial strain for the client. Escrow can be very confusing for investors. This is a portion of the loan that a lending company puts aside for repairs to the property. Many people do not fully understand how much money is needed up front in order to start the construction process. In addition, many underestimate how much the interest will be every month for the property. If you have a $400K loan, and you’re at 12%, you will in turn pay $4K a month out of your pocket. Thankfully the title company provides a settlement statement that includes a complete breakdown showing exactly what you are buying, and what you owe to everyone. By fully understanding your budget and planning for expenses, you can avoid spiraling debilitating debt. 

Do your research and plan ahead

Investors who do not know their numbers will soon find themselves in a spiral of financial distress.  Not only that, but by not having enough money to make payments it will result in pure panic and overwhelming desperation. Many investors attempt to resolve this crisis by using personal credit cards, or a HELOC to get back on track. In doing so, they put their whole life into jeopardy. People can make a lot of money at this, and there is a lot of money to be made. It is imperative that you know your numbers, take emotions out, and do your research before diving in. People tend to overestimate what they can do in a few months, and tend to underestimate what they can do in a few years. 

Watch our most recent video to find out more about the #1 Roadblock in Real Estate Investing.

Want more information on real estate investment roadblocks or have any other questions? Contact us today! 

by