Real estate investors often think that they will not find leads in real estate listings. They think that distressed property owners will not have the time to wait around for an agent. Investors spend a lot of time and money using alternative methods to find deals. These may include bandit signs, 800 numbers and locating deserted properties.

You know that you should never neglect solid sources on leads for investment properties. Real estate listings hold more promise than you might expect. You can determine a certain set of things from a real estate listing. These things could possibly help you spot a good investment.

Do not overlook free sources for leads. Use the real estate listings to help you target good investment opportunities. Always keep an eye open for these flags:

* • A house that has been listed for a long time - If a house has been listed for a long time, the owners may be getting nervous. They may not know that a real estate agent is not their only option. Your contacting them could actually be a life preserver.

* Prices that have been recently lowered - People who drop their asking prices are often motivated to sell. If they had time to spare they would wait it out. A drop in price can indicate that the owners need to get out.

* A FSBO sign is a good sign - It is likely that FSBO owners are overwhelmed. They may just be glad to get out of their position. 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 often involves working with buyers who do not have excellent credit or who cannot get bank loans. If a property owner is willing to take this type of risk they are likely a motivated seller.

You can see now how real estate listings are actually a great source of leads. Use your local paper to spot potential deals in real estate listings right away.