The TurnKey Investor’s
“Subject To” Mortgage Success Secrets
By Matthew S. Chan
www.turnkeyinvesting.com
Ascend Beyond Publishing
ISBN: 0-9713947-3-3
45-Minute Audio Program 

Matthew Chan’s audio program, The TurnKey Investor’s “Subject To” Mortgage Success Secrets is an informative CD on the success secrets every individual interested in “subject to” mortgages should know.  I had already gone through the Handbook so I was familiar with what was covered on the CD and found it to be an excellent tool by which to review the material or to specifically consider the most important details to gain success. 

Chan points out that subject to mortgages are a special niche rather than a mainstream topic in property management.  In order to become successful, an individual needs to do and practice the activity.  Hopefully, the Success Secrets will be both an aid to beginners and a review of experiences for professionals.  I recommend that if you definitely want to enter into this technique, that you purchase the Handbook.  The CD program is a good follow-up to keep material fresh. It could also be a good introduction as individuals actually consider whether they want to try this type of property acquisition. 

To get started, Chan points out the benefits:

Sharing their success secrets is not surprising.  Anyone familiar with Chan’s books will find that he willingly shares experience and knowledge in order to save others from “reinventing the wheel.”  This is a personal philosophy that I highly endorse; I commend Chan for his continued efforts in this regard.  So now let’s consider the “secrets.” 

A very important process is ensuring “Deal Flow.”  Chan’s group does a lot of marketing.  They advertise, “I buy houses.”  Striving to continuously get the word out and keep them visible, they advertise non-stop whether or not they are picking up this type of mortgage. 

They work with “urgent” sellers.  Yes, it is unconventional, not ideal, but when a seller is motivated, they are willing to consider this type of mortgage.  If you find someone who will trust you, then they are prospective clients.  Turnkey Investing works to ensure high credibility in their professional field! 

Complete consideration and evaluation of the possible deal is necessary.  Pointing out that there are lots of bad deals available, Chan ensures each important point is weighted:

Due Diligence for “subject to” mortgages is specific to this technique.  Highlighting each issue, Chan verifies that the property manager must be very clear about exactly what they are getting into! 

Chan speaks out against “kitchen table closings,” and instead insists that a formal closing with an attorney or title company leads to a satisfactorily successful closing.

It seems logical that individuals in this professional field would realize that financial backup is a necessity.  However, success mandates a stronger statement.  If you can’t do it (borrow to ensure coverage of financial contingency issues), don’t enter into the deal!

How many times have we seen small companies fail because of poor administrative or financial management?  Chan points out that with “subject to” mortgages, this may be even more important because you are now acting on behalf of the seller who has entrusted you with their property.

Chan speaks frankly and openly about ethics as well as attention to managerial issues.  Once again, his words are there, ready for you to use in developing a successful career.  Experienced property managers—this is an excellent overview of success issues!!!  Keep it in your car for easy listening as you travel through your day! 

G. A. Bixler
For Independent Professional Book Reviewers
www.bookreviewers.org
02/05/07