Often real estate investors believe that real estate listings are not good lead sources. They believe that owners of distressed home will not want to wait around for an agent. There are lots of investors who spend lots of time and money finding deals alternative ways. These alternatives may include bandit signs, finding deserted properties and running 800 numbers.

You know that you should never neglect solid sources on leads for investment properties. Using real estate listings can yield better results than you might think. You can determine certain important things from real estate listings. Spotting these things could lead to a good investment opportunity.

Do not neglect a free source of leads. Use real estate listings to locate great investment properties. Watch out for these telltale signs:

* Houses that have been listed for a long time are good potential targets - For one thing, the owners may be getting nervous. They might not know that they have options other than a real estate agent. Your contacting them could be a lifesaver as far as they are concerned.

* Home prices that have been recently lowered - Houses with recent drops in price often are owned by people who are getting more motivated. After all, if you had all the time in the world you would wait for your asking price. Drops in price may indicate an owner’s need to get out.

* • FSBO (For Sale By Owner) - It is possible that FSBO owners are getting overwhelmed. They may be happy to not have to deal with the situation anymore. Because they are not paying an agent, they may also be willing to take a lower offer.

* Properties that offer owner financing have big potential. - Creative financing is by its very nature risky. It may involve working with buyers who do not have enough credit to get a bank loan. A property owner who will take this risk is often 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.