Myrtle Said:

why are a lot of single homes for sale in the bad economy?

We Answered:

May be that they had teaser rates on adjustable mortgages. When the teaser rate re-sets, the average homeowner has to cough up $800.00 per month more. That put a lot of people over their budgets, and it is happening all of the time. That is one of the reasons the Fed keeps lowering interest rates to the banks--so that the banks can avert these high resets. Another problem is that many businesses are being affected by the credit problem-less credit at higher prices- so there is less liquidity. And, the banking, real estate, and construction sectors have been hit
hard. People are losing their jobs. What does this add up to? More vacant houses, lower real estate prices, and people who can't meet their debt obligations. Lastly, since real estate prices are falling, some people have no equity in their homes. They'd rather turn over the keys than pay for
an asset that is declining--where the mortgage is higher than what the house is worth. So, they turn over the deed and keys to the lender, and then they don't have to spend on a mortgage and upkeep for a home that's lost significant value, and won't be coming back any time soon...

Earl Said:

What businesses would have a need for enclosed cargo trailers?

We Answered:

I had a kitchen remodeling business and couldn't do my job with out one. Was great for hauling my tools and equipment. Plus i brought a lot of my cabinets to the jobsite in one.
You could also add in people who do a lot of construction. Many uses for these trailers. I have seen plumbers and electricians use them. Sometimes they use thier own vehicle in the trade and instead of ruining there vehicle it is better to use a trailer to haul equipment.

Alfredo Said:

Financing a construction of a house for sale?

We Answered:

No. too risky. Besides, unless you're a really, reallly, reallly great friend. Keep your money and your business separate from your relationship.

Gene Said:

Where can I advertise my new construction business for free?

We Answered:

A few free resources – check out the sources box for links:

1) Create a blog pertaining to your field

2) Use Yahoo! Local & Yahoo! Groups – Be sure to read the TOS for each one!

3) Write articles pertaining to your field and/or expertise.

4) Advertise on Craiglist

Also, consider signing up for an affiliate program. These programs enable you to advertise on other's sites (your affiliates) and once a sale is made to you, your affiliates & the program are paid a commission.

I listed a few handy sites & articles relating to marketing, promotion & advertising. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* 301 Do-It-Yourself Marketing Ideas: From America's Most Innovative Small Companies by Sam Decker
* Off The Wall Marketing Ideas: Jumpstart Your Sales without Busting Your Budget by Nancy Michaels, Debbi J. Karpowicz
* Guerrilla Marketing for Free: Dozens of No-Cost Tactics to Promote Your Business and Energize Your Profits by Jay Conrad Levinson
* Entrepreneur Magazine's Ultimate Small Business Marketing Guide: Over 1500 Great Marketing Tricks That Will Drive Your Business Through the Roof by James Stephenson

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Ben Said:

What's the best way to find investors for a small construction company?

We Answered:

Network. It will take forever to accomplish through banks what you can do in raising money from friends, family, and aquaintences. There is always someone out there willing to invest for the right return. That may mean soliciting business owners all over your community. You surely aren't going to get immediate funding from some angel investor on the internet. Of course, there are always issues with borrowing from friends and family members, namely if you can't repay them.