Real estate investing isn’t only about running spreadsheets, analyzing comps, and calculating cap rates. While those are essential, the savviest investors protect their profits through habits that most beginners overlook. These habits may seem small, but they often uncover hidden risks, provide better negotiating leverage, and save investors from five-figure mistakes.

In this post, we’ll break down 5 surprising real estate investing tips that seasoned investors rely on to make smarter deals:

• Talking to neighbors before you buy

• Mining keywords on Zillow to find motivated sellers

• Getting insurance in place before any demolition

• Using an infrared thermometer during walkthroughs

• Checking Google Street View for hidden neighborhood risks

Let’s dig into each one.

Tip #1 Talk to Neighbors Before You Offer

When you’re about to put in an offer, it’s easy to focus only on what’s inside the four walls of the property. But often, the most valuable insights come from the people who live next door.

Why this works:

• History you won’t find in disclosures: Neighbors know if a property has had recurring issues like basement flooding, structural cracks, or ongoing plumbing problems.

• Unpermitted work: Sellers may not disclose renovations done without permits, but neighbors usually notice when construction trucks were parked outside for months.

• Lifestyle insights: They can also give you a sense of neighborhood safety, noise levels, and whether the block changes dramatically at night or on weekends.

Smart questions to ask:

• “Have you ever noticed flooding or major repairs at this house?”

• “Do you know if the owners did any remodeling without permits?”

• “How is the street during weekends quiet, or busy and noisy?”

A five-minute conversation could prevent you from buying a property that looks perfect on paper but comes with hidden headaches that eat into your profits.

Tip #2 Use Zillow Keyword Mining to Spot Motivated Sellers

Most investors use Zillow to run comps, but few use it to identify motivated sellers ready to negotiate. Certain keywords in listings are strong signals that the seller either can’t or won’t invest in fixing the property and that often means opportunity for investors.

Keywords to watch for:

• “As-is” → seller won’t make repairs, faster negotiations possible

• “Handyman special” → property needs significant work, ideal for flippers

• “Motivated” → seller wants to move quickly, open to lower offers

• “Needs TLC” → cosmetic issues that are cheaper to fix but scare off retail buyers

When you see these terms, don’t wait. Reach out immediately speed is key with distressed or undervalued listings.

Pro move: Set up Zillow saved searches with these keywords and enable instant alerts. This way, you’ll be among the first to contact the seller or agent, giving you a competitive edge.

Tip #3 Never Start Demo Before Insurance is Active

Imagine this: you’ve closed on a property, your contractor swings the sledgehammer on day one, and then a major accident happens before your insurance policy starts. That mistake could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.

What to have in place:

• Builder’s Risk Insurance → covers property damage during renovation

• General Liability Insurance → protects against third-party injuries or accidents

Pre-demo checklist:

• Confirm the start dates of your insurance policies

• Get a certificate of insurance from your contractor

• Take detailed photos of the property before any work begins

• Make sure permits are posted and approved

• Inform neighbors about the upcoming work

If damage or theft happens before your coverage kicks in, you’ll be the one paying out of pocket not your insurer. A quick confirmation call to your insurance provider before demo day can save you a fortune.

Tip #4 Carry a $35 Infrared Thermometer on Walkthroughs

Professional inspectors often use expensive tools to spot hidden issues, but as an investor, you can get ahead with a simple infrared thermometer that costs about $35.

What it can reveal:

• Cold spots along baseboards or walls → may signal leaks or water intrusion

• Drafty windows and doors → poor insulation that raises utility bills

• Overheating electrical outlets → potential fire hazard

• Cold ceilings under bathrooms → possible plumbing leaks

This simple tool can help you catch red flags during an initial walkthrough. While it doesn’t replace a full inspection, it allows you to identify problem areas early and decide whether the property is worth pursuing further.

If your thermometer readings raise concerns, that’s your cue to bring in a pro with a moisture meter, thermal camera, or licensed contractor for a deeper look.

Tip #5 Use Google Street View to Scan the Neighborhood

You’ve probably done a drive-by to check curb appeal, but Google Street View gives you another angle and often more context about the neighborhood.

What to look for:

• Junked cars, cluttered yards, or neglected properties nearby

• Roofs in disrepair or poorly maintained homes that could lower resale value

• Commercial properties creeping into residential areas (bars, repair shops, warehouses)

• Evidence of parking congestion, which makes renting tougher

These details may seem small, but they directly affect property value and tenant appeal. A beautifully renovated home won’t sell at top dollar if it’s next to a row of neglected houses.

Pro tip: Pair your Street View scan with in-person visits at different times of day morning, evening, and weekends. You’ll get a real feel for traffic, noise, and livability.

Conclusion: Small Checks, Big Payoffs

The best investors know that profit isn’t only in the numbers it’s in the details. A quick chat with neighbors, a saved Zillow search, or a $35 tool in your pocket can be the difference between a winning deal and a money pit.

By adding these small but powerful habits into your process, you’ll protect your margins, reduce risk, and make smarter offers with confidence.

👉 At RP Capital Lending, we help real estate investors move fast on opportunities with the right financing. If you’re ready to expand your portfolio and maximize returns, contact us today.

FAQs About Real Estate Investing Tips

Q1. How do I find motivated sellers on Zillow?
Look for listing terms like “as-is,” “handyman special,” or “motivated.” These usually signal that the seller wants a quick deal.

Q2. Is talking to neighbors really useful?
Yes neighbors often know about hidden issues like past flooding, unpermitted work, or noise problems.

Q3. What insurance do I need before renovating?
At minimum, you should have Builder’s Risk and General Liability insurance in place before demo.

Q4. Are infrared thermometers worth it?
Absolutely. They’re inexpensive and can reveal hidden leaks or electrical problems that save you thousands.

Q5. What neighborhood red flags should I check?
Watch out for neglected yards, junked cars, commercial encroachment, or parking issues they all impact resale value.