First we cannot stress more that this is the time you need to speak with someone who has no interest in the transaction. This is where the real estate appraiser comes in. For example if you see a house on the internet in San Diego but you are in Australia you need an appraiser to inspect the property and give you their opinion of value. Appraisers usually do not work with agents (we do not recommend having an agent involved in the transaction recommending the appraiser); we are an independent body, heavy regulated by the government and again we have no interest in the sale; we receive no commission from the sale. Contact the appraisers at: www.socalappraisalserv.com for a valuation. For appraisers outside of Southern California contact Southern California Appraisal Services and they will direct you to ways of finding a qualified appraiser in the area. Is it worth $400+ US for an appraisal on an investment that could be in the millions?, you bet. The appraisal will probably help with negotiation, and peace of mind. Si habla Espanol.
Thinking it might be time to buy one of those el cheapo US properties? You’ll find there’s no shortage of experts here to help you.
Faint stirrings – and I do mean faint – in the US housing market seem to have ramped up the marketing of apparently cheap houses to Australian investors. But some things aren’t cheap at any price and this is one gift horse that needs to have its mouth carefully examined.
A property consultant and consumer advocate, Neil Jenman, says the most compelling proof that this is a dangerous game is that many of the country’s big-name property spruikers are now spruiking US product. Obviously having decided this is more profitable than flogging overpriced units on the Gold Coast, they’ve linked up with US promoters to offer one-stop-shop services to Australian investors dazzled by those cheap US prices.
Which is where the second warning bell should sound.
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