Customer Reviews

Real Estate Investing for Dummies

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(8)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Upon the completion of reading this book, I realize that the authors have set a new and comprehensive standard for real estate investors. Investment in Real Estate is an interesting and often frustrating process. Don't let the title fool you, this is a SERIOUS book for serious real investors whether novice or veteran.

The authors obviously know their subject, which is highly diverse. You are guided around pitfalls, and problems. It's almost like you have a wise sage holding your hand because the authors have "been there and done that". I appreciated their candor and honesty throughout the book, but in particular their take on the "information guru's" who sell their get-rich-quick real estate tapes and CD's on the unsuspecting public.

All you other real estate authors take note. You have a new standard to shoot for. Five stars, easy.

I have done some investing on my own but wanted to learn more about real estate. This book is awesome. It covers the basics and more complicated real estate investments. I now know what types of real estate I am going to pursue and how to analyze them. I read the entire book but I am sure I will keep coming back to it for the worksheets and checklists.

I am only mid-way through this book but it has already answered so many of my questions (that another book did not)! I am new to real estate investing but not new to real estate. This book is layed out (like the rest of the Dummies books) in a very easy to follow format. It points out items to definitely remember when considering transactions and also points out warnings.

Also, since they have no agenda other than to help you understand the process, they did not try to sell you anything (i.e.; get rich quick schemes). This Dummies book gives it to you straight -- Why you should invest in real estate; How real estate investments stack up against other types of investments, such as stocks, etc.; The benefits of building your wealth by staying in for the long term; What cash flow to expect in the short term, including the possibility of negative cash flow.

This is an excellent book for beginners as well as experiences investors. It covers all of the basics and full of tips for all, experienced or not as of yet.
They speak in a common language that is easy to understand, not so complex or over your head. They are very knowledgeable in the real-estate field and it shows through this book.
At this time I own 2 doubles, 1 condo, and a 4-unit and I found it full of useful information and tips. I would recommend the purchase.

I've purchased several books on real estate(RE) investing and this book by far is the best of the lot. It is written in a concise yet informative manner and provides beginning investors with the techniques and strategies to get their RE investment careers off to a solid start. I'm sure I'll be referring to this book many times throughout my RE investment career.

I would highly recommend this book!

I bought this book some time ago and read it as soon as I got it. I'm a realtor in the Florida Keys and continually work on my education and training. I have never read a "dummies" book before now and I was very impressed. This book was a review of much of the material I learned and great source of information that's easy to follow. The content of the book will help you decide what type of property investment is right for you. It's a must have for anyone considering investing in real estate no matter what your background, and I strongly urge you to read with a Hi-liter for easy reference when you need it. [...]

Real Estate Investing for Dummies is yet another excellent real estate book in the Dummies series. I have "Home Buying for Dummies" and "Property Management for Dummies." Both are highly valued, and frequently utilized, volumes in my investing library.

I have long thought that "Real Estate Investing" by McLean and Eldred was perhaps the top book for beginning real estate investors. But after reading "Real Estate Investing for Dummies," I now think the Dummies is equally as good, although it may not cover quite as much ground. Dummies is excellent in what it presents because it written in a manner that is easily understood, it provides sufficent depth, and it covers the key topics.

I particularly like the chapter on "Due Diligance." The chapter does an outstanding job of describing the components of reviewing books and records, and inspecting a property that you have bid on and have had the bid accepted by the seller. Purchase contracts provide that the sale can be canceled without loss of earnest money if the buyer's physical inspection isn't satisfactory. Following the suggestions in this chapter assure that you won't be surprised with what you get, and gives tips on how to cancel or renogiate the deal, if you need to.

I also like the final chapter, which lays out in plain English the time tested (non-infomercial guru) principals of how to make money in real estate. Buy when market conditions are conducive to buying, when properties are distressed and available as forclosures or on favorable terms with seller financing. Add value to properties. Hold on to properties that offer long-tem stable growth in rental rates. Refinance to tap into investment property equity and to further your real estate investments.

Good solid advice.

It was some time ago since I bought this book. And if you read all of my reviews about real estate books, you'll know I grade honestly (see my other reviews).

This book I give 5 stars because it truly explains everything to the average Joe. It isn't boring. You get to learn the different aspects of real estate investing. This was my first book and it made me get interested in real estate not because of the "riches that's promised" but the potential that this field has and so many branches of it. Real estate investing isn't limited to just flipping houses, you'll find by reading this book there's many more roads that's equally profitable.

-Matt
co-author of the Ultimate Foreclosure Kit

I'm still reading this book. It is organized well, easy to understand and perfect for anyone who is considering entering the world of real estate investing.

This book is a great companion to other books of a more thoeretical nature. Many real estate books focus on why you should invest and the benefits of investing.

This book does that, but then goes one step further. I think the authors and the 'For Dummies' team need to be congratulated as they have given everyone enough detail to make some very solid decisions about your investing.

Very worthwhile and definately well worth the $$. And very solid to know it's written by investors not salespeople.