You may have noticed a slight change in my user settings which reflect a new line of business. I really know how to fix houses and am now a registered, insured contractor. I'm in the Home Improvement business.

In talking with others in the business, it looks like I won't need to do blind mailings to get customers. I'll put people on the mailing list after I've done work for them but for now I'll save on postage.

I'm going to start by introducing myself to a minimum of three Real Estate Agents a week. I would like to fix houses that are listed or under contract and need to have inspection issues cleared up NOW. I'll also post business cards on bulletin boards and use vehicle magnets. That should do it for now.

My roommate has actually looked into this idea a bit with our ex-neighbor who was also a contractor. It seemed very interesting to say the least.

When we were in Encino, there was a house down the street that we thought about doing that but they still wanted about $500,000 for it. The agent said it needed a "little work". From the outside, it needed a new paint job and grass. If you make good with a real estate agent, it all might work out. Our neighbor was one and we all talked about it but since we moved, it unfortunately got nowhere

While you're describing sounds like a rehab opportunity, the best of which never make it to the MLS listings. The FSBO sign-in-the-yard, or classified ad - is a better source of those deals.

What I plan to do with realtors is help their sellers clear up the last few inspection concerns so the sale can close and the realtor can get their commish. There's a crying need for contractors around here, especially for the small (less than one full day) job.

May I make a suggestion. Join a strong networking group. I've done this past summer (BNI) and I am surprised at how many referrals get passed within the home and realtor people.. This would be a great way to get known in your local area.