Hello,

Yesterday we visited two houses with our client. Both were in Altadena. They were located at the top of Lake St. Both are distressed properties. One of the homes was in good shape. The other was in disrepair.

When you are looking at distressed properties, the buyer has to beware. Most of these homes are sold "as-is". Before you release contingency, make sure you hire a good inspector. I have a good one; he charges $350 (about average). The inspector may recommend another inspector (plumbing or roofing); additional costs.

Before you decide to buy you may have to invest several hundred dollars. A shrewd investor may find bargains; but obstacles exist. Be careful.

Here's a pic from the nicer house

...here's another pic