In a time when every program promoter is out in full force, it is important to remember that there are many wolves in sheep’s clothing laying in wait. When involved with the wrong people real estate investment goes bad. Very bad!
An interesting article in USA today featured a criminal named Brent Barber who bragged that he could tear up any state he wanted to, right from jail. Many of his fraudulent activities sound a lot like products being promoted nationwide. His scams include outright forgery and theft to more subtle programs using people’s “good credit” because his credit line “was maxed out”. While Brent’s programs were meant to swindle people, the net affect could be the same when dealing with people who are starting out with good intentions.
There are many opportunities to be involved in real estate with a wide range of options. Whatever investment you choose, be sure that you really understand the risks and rewards, and never use as security something you cannot afford to lose. The fact is that placing your personal residence on the line for a risky investment is just not smart. Using your credit rating to secure financing for someone else could make you some money, or it could destroy your credit for years and years to come. I for one am unwilling to do that. If you are going to use your credit for an investment loan, you had better be in a position of control. If a builder, developer, etc. wants you to guarantee a loan, make sure he is guaranteeing it as well. The people who are really at risk are those with skin in the deal. Unfortunately, some individuals just want to use your credit because they can’t qualify. Some promoters will want you to take all the financial risk while they are guaranteed a tidy profit from the get go.
Like everything having to do with your financial wellbeing, I strongly encourage you to do your homework, understand the entire deal, the legalities, the obligations and the risks. Anyone who focuses only on the rewards will be doing themselves and their partners/clients a huge disservice. Be smart and you’ll be all right. If we can help we’d love to. Here’s wishing you success.