|    
                          When using other people to help you build your property 
                          portfolio there are five simple principles to follow 
                          to help minimise the risks. 
                        1. 
                          What is their track record like? 
                          The best way to find deal providers is through word 
                          of mouth recommendation from people you know and trust 
                          who have used their services and been happy with the 
                          outcome. You can do this through networking events and 
                          on line forums. 
                        2. 
                          Do your own due diligence. 
                          Never assume what you are told is correct! When offered 
                          a potential deal check it out yourself using the internet, 
                          local knowledge from Letting agents, estate agents and 
                          other investor you know in the area. This need not take 
                          too long. Know what makes a good deal for you and be 
                          decisive. Never buy blind. You or someone you trust 
                          must have seen the property. 
                        3. 
                          Never pay a large upfront amount 
                          Whilst I believe it is perfectly reasonable to ask you 
                          to put down a reservation deposit (of say £1000) 
                          on a particular property to prove your commitment, never 
                          pay the full finders fee in advance. Pay at completion. 
                           
                        4. 
                          Make sure your deposits goes into a client account 
                          This means that they cannot use the money until they 
                          have provided the service for you. 
                        5. 
                          Understand their terms and conditions 
                          Make sure you know what happens if the deal falls over 
                          (which can happen when dealing with motivated sellers.) 
                          Understand your obligations and commitments so that 
                          you know when you get your fee back and when you don’t! 
                          
                        What 
                          to learn more from Simon? 
                          If you would like to learn more about how Simon Zutshi 
                          can help you to become a more successful investor then 
                          you may like to look at his new website packed full 
                          of valuable information for investors at www.Property-Mastermind.com 
                          If you would like to learn more about Simon Zutshi you 
                          might like to read his book “Property 
                          Magic” now in its third edition, and an Amazon 
                          No 1 property best seller! 
                           
                        If 
                          you want some help with your belief of what you could 
                          achieve through your property investing, then have a 
                          look at these inspirational stories of people just like 
                          you who have achieved incredible success through their 
                          property investing. 
                        www.Property-Mastermind.com/CaseStudies 
                         
                           
                         |