THE HIDDEN RISKS EVERY REAL ESTATE INVESTOR SHOULD KNOW The Top 3 Mistakes That Sink Real Estate Portfolios
Due diligence isn’t optional. Behind every deal could be hidden structural issues, legal snags, or neighborhood red flags. That’s why thorough research is key. Don’t just glance at the listing, dig deep. Minimum due diligence includes:
Keep emotions out of the equation. A gorgeous fixer-upper or “too good to be true” price tag might tug at your heart, but smart real estate investing is all about logic. Avoid signing contracts based on emotion or gut instinct. Focus on the data. If the numbers don’t add up, walk away. Let legal experts light the way. A real estate attorney does more than read the fine print. They help you anticipate challenges, negotiate smarter, and protect your bottom line. At Merlino & Gonzalez, we help investors in Staten Island and beyond make real estate moves that are both bold and wise. Before you make your next investment, make your smartest one: Partner with a legal team that puts your future first. Contact the trusted team at Merlino & Gonzalez to ensure your next real estate move is a smart one.
Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way to build long-term wealth, but only if you sidestep the common mistakes that trap many newcomers. Even the most promising property can become a costly headache without a thoughtful strategy and professional guidance. Here’s how to protect your investment and your peace of mind. Always start with a strategy. In a red-hot market, it’s tempting to snatch up whatever hits the listings first. But impulsive buying is a fast track to disappointment. Successful investors know real estate isn’t about chasing trends but executing a well- crafted plan. Before touring properties or making offers, clarify your goals. Are you aiming for long-term rental income? A quick renovation and resale? Aiming for commercial space? Let your goals steer the ship. Without a clear direction, even the best deal on paper might be the wrong move for your future.
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Visiting the neighborhood at various times of day Ordering a professional property inspection Reviewing crime rates and safety concerns Checking for title issues, boundary disputes, or easements Consulting with a real estate attorney about any zoning or code complications Getting accurate repair quotes and assessing renovation needs Running a clear cash-flow analysis to estimate ROI
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These steps may seem tedious, but they can prevent major financial pitfalls down the road.
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Michele’s Recipe Corner
Inspired by ThePioneerWoman.com
INGREDIENTS •
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1 5.25-oz package crispy sugar cookies 1 0.8-oz package freeze- dried strawberries
1 pt strawberry ice cream 1/4 cup strawberry preserves
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1 pt vanilla ice cream
DIRECTIONS 1. Stir strawberry ice cream in a large bowl until spreadable. Fold in preserves until evenly streaked throughout. 2. Stir vanilla ice cream in a separate large bowl until spreadable. 3. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp of the strawberry mixture into the bottom of 8 (1/3-cup) popsicle molds. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp of the vanilla mixture on top of the strawberry mixture into the molds. Repeat, alternating the 2 mixtures, until each mold is full. 4. Place sticks into the popsicles and freeze until solid, 4–6 hours. 5. In a large zip-lock bag, crush sugar cookies with a rolling pin until pieces are rice-size; pour into a shallow dish. 6. Repeat with freeze-dried strawberries and stir the pieces together. 7. Run the ice cream molds under warm water to release popsicles from molds. 8. Coat bars evenly with cookie mixture. 9. Eat immediately or place on a cookie sheet and freeze.
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