Despite the current slump in the housing market, it can be an attractive time to acquire funding for a real estate property. I made my move into the real estate business at a time when it was “risky” and not a sure thing, but I have comprised systems that allow me to not only survive the slump, but profit from it. We all know the time to buy is not when you hear everyone saying it a great time to get in the market. We want to get in before that. I had a mere $800 to my name when I decided I to make real estate work for me. There are many ways to go about funding your next real estate deal, but today I would like to focus on grants, private investors, sellers, liquefying assets, and loans.
Grants:
The government dishes out millions of dollars each year in grants to those seeking funding for real estate ventures. This is mainly because one of the government’s main duties is to provide housing for U.S residents. Not only are the grants there to help the brokers, but also acts as an outsourced entity for the government. There are not only federal grants for which you can apply, but also state level grants as well.
Private Investors:
If you can be provided with an opportunity to sit down with someone who is willing to entertain putting forth a little investment capital for a possible venture, wear your best suit and tie. Have a professional proposal detailing your outlying costs and show the bottom line of your profit margin. Chances are your investor will be looking for a faster return on their money than a financial institution will.
The seller (can you believe this?):
Yes, you can possibly obtain the money needed for a property from the seller. It may benefit the seller more to finance your purchase than to maybe face foreclosure. In some instances the seller is willing to add additional money to the price of the property to account for the down payment and the closing costs. This additional money may need to be covered in a certain time period such as a deferred down payment. It will increase your interest to carry that extension on your balance; however it will buy you some time to earn more capital.
Liquefying any assets:
If you feel strongly about entering in to the market and have tried other avenues to obtain capital; you may think about liquefying any available assets. You can cash in any stocks, bonds or other savings. Also you may contemplate turning over your 401K in hopes that you can replenish your retirement fund with a much more lucrative investment in larger sums. Especially if you can invest then into a CD account which yields higher interest. However, seek professional guidance before making this move. We always need to think through our investments from how to get a deal to the proper exit strategy!
Loans:
If all else fails, it is still possible to obtain an investment loan from a bank or credit union. You may be required to possess a higher credit score and/or have substantial collateral to convince the bank to fund your venture. In this instance you may or may not receive the full amount necessary, and will also need to consider the interest rate that will be assessed above the loan. This will be essential when completing a bank proposal.
The right way to fund a deal is different for each circumstance. As a professional investor it is important to be able to use all the tools necessary to get the deal done. Understanding all your options enables you to be the investor that gets the deal done. Once you establish yourself as a closer the deals will start to run to your door.
