Real Deal REInvestor Network

I discovered by pure coincidence that a deep snow is a great investigative tool for the real estate investor. Armed with a list of properties in foreclosure, I set out to visit each one with the intention of making contact with the homeowner. This was about 24 hours after the end of a snowstorm that covered the area with about 12 inches.

The first house on my list was one of six attached row houses. The front steps were covered in 12 inches of untouched snow. The entrances to the 5 other homes were neatly shoveled. I thought I saw someone sitting in the window and pulled out my shovel, thinking the homeowner might be in need of assistance. Then I realized the person was sitting in the window of the house next door. This one was empty.

That first "tell" inspired me to use the opportunity to "research" the entire neighborhood, taking notes on the houses with for sale signs, as well as the houses on my list. I felt like my day was very productive. From now on, when I see a heavy snow coming down, I will see opportunity.

Nice...while vacant house owners sometimes pay people from time to time to cut their grass so it doesn;t get incredibly high, it is VERY unlikely they would do so to have snow shoveled. Quick, easy way to see who might be a vacant house prospect