Often, investors think that [1] real estate listings are not a good way to find properties. They believe that owners of distressed home will not want to wait around for an agent. Investors spend a lot of time and money using alternative methods to find deals. These may include bandit signs, 800 numbers and locating deserted properties.

But you should never neglect good sources of leads on investment properties. However, real estate listings often hold more promise than you might think. You can determine certain important things from real estate listings. Spotting these things could lead to a good investment opportunity.

Never neglect free sources of deals. Use real estate listings to help you find good investment properties. You should watch for these types of flags:

* Keep an eye out for houses that have been listed a long time - For starters, it is possible that the owners are getting nervous. However, they may not realize that they have options other than their realtor. Your contacting them could be a lifesaver as far as they are concerned.

* • A house that has recently had the price lowered - Motivated sellers often are compelled to drop their asking prices. After all, if they had time to spare then they would wait out the buyers. The owner may need out if they have just dropped the price.

* • FSBO (For Sale By Owner) - Selling a property on your own can be overwhelming. They may just be happy to be out of the situation that they were in. They might also be willing to take a lower offer because they are not paying a commission.

* Check out properties that offer owner-financing - This type of risky financing is always more perilous than bank loans. It often involves working with buyers who do not have the credit to get bank loans. If a property owner will take this type of risk they are likely a motivated seller.

It is likely clear to you now that real estate listings are a good source for leads. Pick up your local real estate listings and start spotting potential deals.