If you're looking to complete your due diligence on a realtor before making a big decision on the largest purchase of your life, you're in the right place. I also find it appalling that the only review that aligns with mine has been hidden. (Thanks, Nina, I also agree with dishonesty and immoral business practices). Long story short, I am a single income family of 4 (two boys under 4) and recently moved to Michigan from Chicago. We found what we believed to be a beautiful home that was very overpriced based on comps, area, etc. (Our lender appraisal confirmed the same). After making our initial offer (fair market value), things got weird. Pat held an open house after our initial offer where several family members attended. All of which were quick to outline how much he advertised his "whole home improvements", even detailing such improvements on his listings. He informed the attendees that "all work was professionally done and was happy to provide details on work that was completed". However, once we got into the PA process, things got very weird. Not only did Pat outline "Unknown" on EVERY item on the sellers disclosure, after we asked our realtor to inquire further, Pat decided we must sign an addendum outlining that we would purchase this home knowing he would NOT disclose anything. This was an immediate red flag, as surely, someone who fully renovates a home is aware of lingering issues, or those uncorrected. We pushed back, only to learn that he would not close unless this was signed. We immediately hired two inspectors, who outlined numerous issues that needed immediate correction. Bug infestation (funny, he cleaned the home prior and failed to outline this), squatters previously occupied the home that required sheriff's title and legal action to remove, expansive black and white mold on the floor joists in basement (after he installed all new drop tile ceiling, which, you'd think it would have been noticed), a leaking roof that was damaging attic/insulation/ceiling dry wall in several rooms, and several other items. Pat's feedback "i never lived in the home, i have no details on the home's issues". We also asked for dates and contacts on the HVAC install, plumbing, and AC but none were provided. Lastly, upon close, we got one key and you'd think the brand new garage door would allow Pat to share the fobs and entry code, but conveniently "forgot and lost both items" just 4-5 months after install. Safe to say that while all of this is likely legal, it's very unethical and I would question this business's moral compass. To anyone who encounters Pat and his team on either the buy or sale, please do your due diligence and ask every question. When things feel odd or incorrect, trust your judgement vs believing a realtor who is going around purchasing tax liens and completing handy-man type 'home renovations' and making you sign contracts w/ no disclosures. Talk about unethical, shady business practices on one of the largest purchases people can make. I would never make a deal with this immorally led business ever again. read more

All I had to do was say, "Yes." I had received word that my tenant of several years was moving out of my last rental property in Michigan. It was time. I had been a long distance landlord for 12 years and the property had appreciated nicely over the time that I had owned it. My wife and I let a few days pass, but our minds were unchanged. We were ready to sell. The next afternoon I received a phone call from a "Kalamazoo" number that wasn't in my contact list. Usually, I leave these to voicemail (which is normally full). For some reason I picked it up. It was Pat O'Brien. He and I hadn't met, but I knew Pat by reputation as a solid guy. He asked me about the condo and if I had thought about selling it. I'd gotten calls like this before from realtors and wholesalers, but this was different. This time, without blinking, stuttering, or thinking, I said, "yes." When it was time for the tenant to turn in keys, I had them dropped off directly at Pat's office. It wasn't long before I started receiving pictures of the unit. I knew there would be some needed renovations, but after getting used to having property managers handle the day to day for my other properties I wasn't excited about having to lug tools to Michigan to do the work myself or even attempt to manage the repairs remotely. Pat probably realized this and solved the problem for me before I had much time to contemplate the issue. Pat advised, coordinated, and managed all repairs to the property. He made things really easy, all I had to do was say, "yes." Soon it was time to list the property, Pat again handled everything. After the listing was posted we started receiving email notices of scheduled showing. These were followed up by feedback from the potential buyers. We received two offers within a short amount of time and closed within 30 days and for top dollar. Pat made it easy, all I had to do was say, "yes." Pat kept me well informed throughout the entire process. He made it easy, and it was the smoothest real estate sale in my 20+ years of real estate investing. I write this with my sincerest thanks to Pat O'Brien at http://www.obriensoldmine.com/ Pat can sell yours too, all you have to say is, "yes." read more