Recommended Reading:Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway

Written by Dr. Susan Jeffers, Ph.D.

Dr. Susan Jeffers is an eminent teacher and counselor who has helped millions turn their lives around. Her book Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway can help you become more powerful in the face of your fears. Dynamic and inspirational, this book is filled with concrete techniques to turn passivity into assertiveness.

Condos Are Great Starters

Condos are great property investments if you are starting out as a real estate investor. They are easier to maintain from the owner’s part and are often easier to rent out.

When searching for a condo, become familiar with the prices and be sure to ask for information such as strata minutes, contingency fund, maintenance fees, and any possible liens or assessments that may be held against the property. Part of your due diligence may also include calling the building caretaker or property manager and asking him/her about any potential issues. They may be willing to provide unbiased information, giving you a better understanding of the building’s history and condition.

Three years ago, I came across a 2-BR condo that was offered below appraised market value because the seller had declared bankruptcy. I noticed that the maintenance fee was unusually high despite having very few amenities. I contacted the caretaker and asked if he understood the reasons why. He explained that a previous property management company had claimed some routine maintenance costs through the insurance company. This affected the insurance premiums and strata fees. Despite this knowledge, my wife and I decided to purchase the property for ourselves after negotiating a good price. Our exit strategy involved selling it within 2 years after making some cosmetic improvements. We managed to sell the property in 11 months with over 50% net ROI. Contact me to learn how I did it.

Profit Center #3: Leverage

In a nutshell, leverage is being able to use a small amount of money to purchase a large asset. An asset such as real estate, for example, may be purchased by investing only 25% of your own money (equity) and borrowing 75% from the bank (mortgage) . In essence, your money works harder because every dollar that is invested equals four dollars in assets. The equity in the property increases as the property appreciates in value, but the amount borrowed does not increase. Best of all, you can borrow up to 75% of the equity to buy more properties.

3 BR Townhouse in The Pinnacle (Yaletown)

3-bedroom townhouse in The Pinnacle
Available May 1st, 2007
$2,800 per month (1-year lease)



Enjoy the art of urban living in your tastefully rejuvenated 1,234 sq.ft. 3-bedroom 'Pinnacle' townhome. Dark cherry hardwood laminate floors, granite countertop. The building offers hotel-style amenities such as swimming pool, hot tub, fitness room, common library and recreation room equipped with billiard table. A guest suite is also available for out-of-town visitors. Steps away is the Vancouver Public Library, Robson shopping, performance theatres and cinemas, and countless entertainment in Yaletown's neighborhood.

For more pictures and information visit:
realtyscout.ca/rentals/pinnacle

Please contact me at 778-668-0455 to make appointment for viewing.