The Path To Progress

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN GOING TO OR CALLING YOUR  COUNTY OFFICES

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Hi there, my name is _____ and I am a local investor and hope you may be able to help me with a few questions.

Tax Office:

1. When was the last auction held for properties that had delinquent taxes due?
2. Did all those properties get sold or did some go back to the county? (If the person answers yes then ask #3)
3. Do you have a list of those properties?
4. When is the next time an auction will be held?
5. Do you have a spare list of the properties that will be on that sale?
6. Do you have a form that lists the guidelines for bidding on those properties?

Assessor’s Office:

1. I have a few properties that I am trying to locate the current owners and would like to know if they have any taxes that are past due at this time.
2. Do you have any way that I may be able to search these properties myself?
3. Is this system of searching on line for public use?

Code Enforcement:

1. When is the next time that you are holding hearings for code enforcement?
2. Would you have a list of those properties that will be heard at the next hearing?
3. When do you hold your condemnation hearings?
4. Is there a list of those properties that already have been condemned?

Zoning Department:

1. Do you have a copy of the Master Plan available for the public?
2. Do you have any 3-5-10 plans currently being implemented?
3. Are there any city maps that highlight the blighted areas, areas slated for revitalization, special improvement districts, redevelopment, streetscapes or block grants?

Community Development:

1. Do you have any current plans for areas that are slated for community redevelopment? If they do, ask them to explain how it works and if they have any literature you could take with you.
2. Do you have any areas that may be covered by Home Funds/Block Grants? If they do, ask them to explain how it works and if they have any literature you could take with you.
3. Are there any areas that are targeted for Neighborhood Rental Rehabilitation Programs? (for the low-income renters that fall below 50% of the medium income levels or less)
4. Do you have any programs that cover Neighborhood Vacant Rehabilitation Programs?
5. Do you have a map that would outline all of these programs and areas?
6. Do you know of any areas that developers have concentrated on? Do you have a list of these developers?
7. What programs do you currently have running for investors like myself that are looking to rehabilitate rental properties and single-family homes for low-income occupants and possibly first time homebuyers?

Remember as investors, we are always looking for deals and it’s crucial to stay ahead of the game.

To your next deal,

Karen