Why did I learn to read?

Where do you farm? I see you posting quite a bit. I am in Madrid, so I am wondering just how close of a "neighbor" you are.

30 days later I went to 3 closings in 45 minutes. Mine to get the place, accross the hall to sell the house and 5 acres, and then down the hall to sell another 5 acre parcel off of it. House and the building lot netted $100,500. Left me with a good 90 acres for cheap.

Morals: 1. know your market; 2. have cash in hand to make quick deals and banks in line for credit when you need it; 3. sometimes you negotiate, sometimes you buy, be ready and able to tell the difference.

Good luck in your search, opportunites to knock, every day.

Good luck in your search, opportunites to knock, every day.

Kyhayman, that is a great summation! Really no further comment is necessary, but since this is a discussion forum, I might as well add some detail to your great post.

1. Know your market - If you see a deal and have to ask someone if it's a good deal, you don't know your market. Step aside and watch for awhile longer.

2. Have cash in hand to make quick deals and banks in line for credit when you need it - How many of us blow every dollar we make? Why not exercise a little discipline and put some money away on a regular basis so that you are in a position to act when the opportunity presents itself? As for having credit lined up, I manage a small credit union. I read peoples' credit reports every day. It's amazing how many people let their credit rating get trashed over stupid things like not paying their cell phone bill or signing up for a Golds Gym membership! Guard your credit rating with your life! Here's what I tell new borrowers: a lender must make a judgment on you when you ask for a loan. That judgment may take on many facets of your situation, but it really boils down to two main things: What is your ability to repay? And what is your attitude about repaying? Ability is a numbers drill. How much do you make? How much do you owe to others? Is there enough left over to pay me back?

But attitude, well that's where your credit history comes in. What does your credit history say about you? Ok, now I'm going to hear all the horror stories from people with bad credit histories that "aren't my fault". Save it. I've heard it too many times.

3. sometimes you negotiate, sometimes you buy, be ready and able to tell the difference. - This goes back to knowing your market. Sometimes by trying to save a nickel by negotiating you lose the opportunity to make a buck.