OfflineThere is a gal that is buying one of our properties who has really caught my attention. In my mind, she has embodied the word “determined“. Let me tell you why.
She and her fiance and girls had looked at this country home about 3 months ago and fallen in love with it. But at the time, they did not qualify for financing. She had just lost her part-time job, she had no money, poor credit, and her fiance had been injured and was waiting to go back to work. They had asked about seller-financing (as so many others had), but we really wanted to cash out on this property and didn‘t have a problem holding it for a bit. So, although I did feel bad, I figured that was the last we would hear from them. She said if they were meant to have it, God would hold it for them.
About a month passed, and we hadn’t had any decent offers. Then I got a call. Little did I know this gal and her family had been back out to the place several times to walk around and talk about their dreams for the property. But not only dream. For that month she had been doing all the steps necessary to get financing. By the time she called me back, she had applied everywhere and pushed until she got another job. She had researched every resource there was for a first-time homebuyer. She was persistent until she found a bank that was willing to work with her. She tried to get the down-payment by putting a lien on her van. She even found a friend that would lend her the money the bank wanted up-front for the appraisal and credit check. PLUS she took advantage of every program she found for first-time homebuyers:
Not only will she be getting the tax credit. She also found a HOOP loan that will pay up to $25,000, at 0% interest, and no payments until they sell the property! There is also a $4000 grant that she will get through the bank (The bank belongs to an association that has a “pool” of money allocated for this). This lady has such a meek disposition I never dreamed she would be one so strong in her will to get a home for her family. Well, let me tell you, after hearing all that, I became a motivated seller for this woman, for her sheer determination. I got in contact with her lender and told them that I was willing to work with them to do whatever it took to close this sale, and SOON. First we drew up the purchase agreement with a closing date that would “encourage” expedited service from the bank. Then I took the proactive approach, got a checklist from the HOOP program office and had the electrician and plumber go out and make sure everything was up to par according to their checklist, so it is ready to go when he does go out there. And she already has her homeowners insurance lined up.
While she is getting a steal at $49,500 on this 3-bedroom ranch on 5.5 acres, we are willing to pay any closing costs that may not be covered by her financing, plus give them some cash back for new carpet or to buy new appliances. And if she took her tax credit and sets it aside in a self-made “escrow”, she could use that to make her mortgage payments for a couple of YEARS.
I may have to get this girl into Real Estate Investing with me! 
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this story as much as I have being a part of it. And for those of you with no money, bad credit, I hope it was encouraging/motivating. You can do anything if you just set your mind to it.
God bless,
Rina
"Obstacles can slow you down, but they can only stop you with your permission." Dean Graziosi (BARM pg 101)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
For a little about me, welcome to the site, and a few tips for new DG family members, click on this link: http://www.deangraziosi.com/user/3249
Although you probably didn't make the profit you could have on this property, I bet you feel even better helping this family out! Great story!!
Dominic
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Rina,
That is a wonderful story from beginning to end. The buyer's story is amazing. What determination and will power that, with all of her actions, has provided results. And you, being inspired by all of her actions which prompted you to help "take it on home" so to speak. I can imagine that you have a nice warm feeling being able to help this woman get her and her family into a wonderful home, dare I say into their dream home. This is a perfect example of the good that real estate investing can bring about. It was a win-win for everyone.
A beautiful story.
All my best to you,
Nancy
Help feed the hungry - www.freerice.com
This is true for RE..."The best way to learn this business is to do this business." - John Addision, co-chief executive officer, Primerica
Aerialist's Journal - Because Life Is a Circus
http://www.deangraziosi.com/real-estate-forums/investing-journals/18857/...
When we are determined and take ACTION, it's amazing what we can accomplish.
Thanks for sharing this experience with us Rina.
"If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.”
Napoleon Hill quote
Thank you Rina, was a good story and you have a heart of gold. (makes up for the lost profit)
Hi all,
Thats one of the reasons we luv this place. There are so many superstars with HEART. Way to go Rina!
Wu luv it here!
Alice n John
and on the up side for me, we got this one for only $30K. It was an REO that had been on the market forever, filthy. The bank had started in the $80Ks. I watched it drop, drop, drop and pounced on it as it made a dive-bomb in price, just beating two other offers that came in a couple days later. (The bank had actually rejected someone's previous offer of $44K months earlier. But you know how that goes, they make no rhyme or reason). So, after the cleaning, painting, and repairs we will still be profiting around $15K, and yes, to me there is NO better reward than helping out a deserving family, so any additional profit we could have made I happily pass on to them.
Thanks, all, for the kind words!
Rina
"Obstacles can slow you down, but they can only stop you with your permission." Dean Graziosi (BARM pg 101)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
For a little about me, welcome to the site, and a few tips for new DG family members, click on this link: http://www.deangraziosi.com/user/3249
That is a great story Rina, I love to hear those kind of stories.
I know i told you many times, but you are an amazin person and I am glad /privileged to call you my friend.
I will speak to ya soon.
Richie.
p.s. I bet Dean is proud to have a student like you doing so many good things for people while making profits in RE.
This is a wonderful story. It shows what a person who is determined can do. And what someone with a kind heart like you can make happen.
Thanks for sharing.
Lea
SPR Property Solutions, LLC
What a great story. It's amazing that everything "fell together" like that. Really shows what determination will do. Some people might say that she was just lucky that you were willing to help. But i believe it was her single mindedness that got you intrigued in the first place, am i right? Awesome story thanks.
For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. -Mark 11:23-
-Now who are you to say it can't be done?-
How inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing this story. God is good. Wow, it truly shows that if you dream big, and believe, and work to capacity and just picture yourself where you want to be....that all kind of sources come to you unexpectedly (in her case: strength to get it done despite her meekness, insight and avenues to pursue it to capacity, perseverance to see it through, jobs, lenders, and even YOU!!) It looks like everyone became her cheerleader despite all odds. And there was nothing that held this woman back.
What a wonderful story! I love to hear these!!
Dream big, believe and put your mind to it! Yes, it looks like she could definitely be a future real estate partner for you! She has truly changed her life in these few months!
Congrats to you too Rina in recognizing her efforts and being a big part of a beautiful life-changing experience! Maybe she will be in Dean's next book?
Cheers,
Louisa
Current Journal on Dean's site: The Second Chapter: http://tinyurl.com/p986al3
First Journal on Dean's Site: From the Beginning: http://bit.ly/ocv10
That was a great story & you'll consistently be rewarded for all the great things you do for people.
Jason S.
San Diego, CA.
**All CASH House Buyer!**
Refer Us To Neighbors, Friends & Family, Earn $1,000
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Rina,
I just learnt from your experience that what we Investors should not always be about making money but if need be help deserving and needy people. Which you did in your case.
It is very sad that millions of families are displaced by the current economic situation. Hope they all find jobs again and back to owning their own homes.
--- Bimal
Wish Everybody a great success in their Real Estate Business
Wow! That is a truly inspiring story. Makes you wonder what those that aren't in nearly as rough of a situation can do! I'm happy to hear you did such a great thing for this woman!
Success and Nothing Less!
Now I know why you are a Superstar, great story!
and May the good Lord Bless you and your's
JayBob
Thanks for sharing this inspirational story with all of us. It proves that if you work hard and try hard by exploring all options that nothing or no one can get in your way. It is great to know that her determiantion will get her the home. It is amazing how determination drives ordianry people to achieve extraordinary things. As real estate investors it is great to know you can make a difference in people's lives. Keep up the good work and keep sharing these great stories. Believe and Achieve!
- Joe
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Joe Jurek CPA
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I think I will print off all the posts in this thread to show her. I'm sure it will bring a smile to her face to see the encouragement from everyone and that her story may have inspired someone else.
God bless,
Rina
"Obstacles can slow you down, but they can only stop you with your permission." Dean Graziosi (BARM pg 101)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
For a little about me, welcome to the site, and a few tips for new DG family members, click on this link: http://www.deangraziosi.com/user/3249
Thank you for sharing this story Rina. As you know my situation and how hard of a time Im having getting started on buying my first home, this story really gives me that much more hope and determination to put in the needed work to get it done.
***
Tracy Lynn
My daily journal link.
I'd love to hear from you.
http://www.deangraziosi.com/real-estate-forums/investing-journals/29564/...
Rina,
Great infomation!!! But the -50k for a 3/2 on 5.5 acres(guessing that it is move in ready)you must live in God's country (rural).And yes,Put her on the payroll.
Invest in yourself!
Hi Rina,
What an amazing story. I have always felt we walk through life meeting not by coincidence. And what a wonderful giving person your buyer has just met! Always the best to you.........Lubertha
"GOD IS STILL IN CHARGE, HE IS THE AIR WE BREATHE"
Rina, as always you made it happen again. You are a true child of God. You may have lost some of your profits, but you did a good deed and made a friend by the way. Who know, that might be your bird-dog for buyers that just fell right into your lap. Rina, this story was inspiring. God Bless.
Sandra
"You can never get to the top, if you are not willing to climb. Do not look at the difficulty of the climb, only anticipate the view from the top."
"Can't even walk without you holding my hand." (Song)
"Is anything too hard for the Lord ..." Genesis 19:14
"In all things, wait on the Lord."
"Think not of your own deliverance, but trust in God who will give in abundance."
"When you are down to nothing, God is up to something." Unknown
"Our lives begin to end, the day we become silent about those things that really matters." Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Yes, I agree. You buyer was fortunate to run into you Rina.
Excellent story.
Rina,
I love these kind of deals! These are amazing win-win situations.
I have to wonder about the buyer if they were living paycheck to paycheck. I used to live paycheck to paycheck when I was in High School, going to vocational school, working as a mechanic, paying 22% on $30K in automotive tools that are now paid off but only worth about $9,000.
The reason I bring up a little bit about paycheck to paycheck is that I belive everyone who is currently living paycheck to paycheck has a distinct advantage over people who have perfect credit and money for down payments. They/we have nothing to lose!
When I had no money and never knew how I was going to pay a bill, rent, car repair, etc. I always had a firm belief that eventually something would happen and everything would be alright. If you have never bounced a check in your life then that idea may really freak you out, in my mind it just costs me $35 bucks.
Now I know that this is not the best mindset to have, to have no problem bouncing a check! But the lesson is; If I do bounce a check what is the worst that is going to happen? $35 bucks thats it. The bills will get paid just not all of them today, and not right this instant, and thats okay!
It only becomes a problem if we ignore it. If we find the solution then it is no longer a problem!
Rina, I really want to see your buyer checking out this website and I know we all would like reading her posts!
Quad City Real Estate Investors Association
http://www.qcreia.weebly.com
Here is the proof of getting a loan to buy a deal with a 585 Credit Score.
http://www.deansmedia.com/play.php?vid=165
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It's truly amazing how God relieves one out of His grace.
"I will NOT BE BROKE! ANYMORE!"
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent,
the Merciful.
22.He is Allah besides Whom there is no God: The Knower of the unseen and the seen; He is the Beneficent, the Merciful.
23. He is Allah besides Whom there is no God: the King, the Holy, the Author of Peace,the Granter of Security, Guardian over all, the Mighty, the Supreme, the Possessor of greatness. Glory be to Allah from that which they set up (with Him)!
24. He is Allah: the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner: His are the most beautiful names. Whatever is in the heavens and the earth declares His glory: and He is the Mighty, the Wise.
Wow Rina, this story is amazing. Just goes to show that anyone can make their dream reality by working for it. It is awesome how she found all this money available just waiting for someone like her to use. Seems like a great win/win to me.
Jeremy
This train, Dreams will not be thwarted
This train, Faith will be rewarded
Big wheel roll through fields where sunlight streams
Meet me in the Land Of Hope And Dreams
Bruce Springsteen
Thanks everyone, for the inspiring posts. Getting closer to the closing date.
She's on the ball again! At one of the properties I made an offer on this week, the owner gave us a very important piece of information. He said there was a new grant for people buying properties in the Douglas County area, which could give an owner funds of up to $20,000 for improvements on their property! Properties within the city limits do not qualify, but all others would if the family met the income guidelines. I called the zoning office to verify, and sure enough just within the last month or so there is federal funding through what is called the "Community Development Block Grant". I called Mary and told her about it. She went down to the courthouse the very next day and picked up a packet.
She is ready to submit her application as soon as we close on this house. Now THAT is taking initiative! I have also been telling friends and family about the funds. I guess it's first come first served, when it's gone it's gone. I think it would be wise to be periodically checking with our city and county departments to see what funding is available. You never know what new programs they're coming up with unless you ask. The gentleman that had told us just happened to see a tiny little ad in a free shopper for the area. I'm glad he was kind enough to pass the info along.
Rina
"Obstacles can slow you down, but they can only stop you with your permission." Dean Graziosi (BARM pg 101)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
For a little about me, welcome to the site, and a few tips for new DG family members, click on this link: http://www.deangraziosi.com/user/3249
Wow what an amazing story. It just gives me the chills reading it. That where I am as of this moment and
doing everything I can to get my family into a home. Thanks for the inspiration.
That you could help that young woman. It is a truly inspiring story. I just went to start the process of buying a foreclosure myself today. This story brought tears to my eyes. Her determination and belief in God, worked together, with your help to give her family a home. That's what I want to do help people find good housing at a cost they can afford.
Thank you so much for telling this story! Please keep us posted on her progress. Sounds like she may be posting sometime soon too!!
Take Care,
Janet
"Investing in you - Improving our community"
Aloha Rina,
Thanks for sharing this inspirational story! There are so many lessons to learn nicely wrapped up in this concise entry. I especially enjoy hearing the blessing you received from helping this family. I can only image hearing the testimonies and praises coming from the mother and family, sounds like glory! This will be a story told for generations. One I'll keep along our journey and real estate toolkit for sure. I look forward to hearing more... Eternal value.
Continued blessings,
Randz
Well, we finally, finally, FINALLY get to go to closing on this! I know now why they call it the "HOOP" program. It's because you might as well be in a circus with how many hoops you have to jump through! This Thursday the buyers can finally "officially" move in. Talk about every step taking time, and "too many cooks in the kitchen" (I wonder how many tax dollars THAT took).
I know it's old, but I had to put a "hallelujah!" to the end of this thread. LOL
Nice thing is, the buyer and I have become friends and I am excited about her working with me, and so is she.
God bless us one and all.
Rina
"Obstacles can slow you down, but they can only stop you with your permission." Dean Graziosi (BARM pg 101)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11
For a little about me, welcome to the site, and a few tips for new DG family members, click on this link: http://www.deangraziosi.com/user/3249
Hi , I am new to the forums , and this is one of the first stories I have read , you are an amazing person and will be very sucessful due to the attitude you have for others , I must say in todays world it is a wonderful thing to see people make life a little easier for those of us who are less fortunate and in need of a break in life, way to go girl , this will bless your heart and hers for the rest of your lives,
Kind Regards
Joel