I often get asked 'How do I find a great real estate deal?' There are many answers to this question, but I'll give you specific advice for Utah Real Estate Investing.  There are many groups out there with different opinions, but I have an approach I believe will work for just about anyone.

1. When's the last time you knocked on doors? I know that doesn't sound like fun, but I'm telling you, that's the reason it can be so effective.  Not many investors want to take the time to get out of their comfort zone, pull up County records for defaults, and knock on the door of someone in need.  BUT, handled correctly this can be a great opportunity.  There are several tips to work on when you get to the door.  First, be polite and don't be a bully.  The homeowner has been through a lot and you never know what their history is.  Respect that they are in distress and find out how things are going.  If you are a licensed REALTOR® you have to disclose that at the door.  Otherwise, say, 'I was reviewing County records and noticed that this home has gone into default.  I know this can be difficult, but wanted to know what your intentions were to have that problem resolved.'  If they say they are planning on moving, that is excellent.  Start the process of placing a purchase contract with your trusted REALTOR® to negotiate a successful sale.  If the offer is less than the owed amount then you will need to negotiate a short-sale.  As a Certified Distressed Property Expert, the Steven Bond Team can help you with this.

2. Set up an auto-search daily on www.UtahFeaturedHomes.com. You'll be surprised at how many deals hit the market on the MLS.  I recommend you fine-tune your exact investment goal and property type and then place that information in an email to Steve@UtahFeaturedHomes.com  I will then set up an auto mailer and you will receive updates daily as to the properties that match your criteria.  This will put you in the drivers seat of real estate shopping with automated systems so you don't have to sort through the same homes over and over again.  You can also save properties of interest that will be automatically tracked for you and you'll be notified immediately if they are sold or the price is dropped.

3. What about Postcards?  As a real estate professional I find postcards can be pretty effective because they are ALWAYS looked at and you can create a streamlined 'Call to Action' such as 'Behind on your mortgage payments?'...'I may be interested in purchasing your property'.  You can purchase specific mailing lists that cater directly to the market of homes you're looking to purchase.  I would also recommend directing them to a web-page that specifically outlines what you're looking to offer and your experience.  Sellers in distress have heard it all and you need an advanced value proposition as to how you are truly going to help them. 

Lastly, be kind in prospecting, ethical in all your dealings and profitable in your purchase.  There are many opportunities in the marketplace, but the deals that are 'too good to be true' either are, or they are at the cost of someones integrity.  Do the right thing and you'll be successful and happy in real estate.