Performing Profits: Evaluating First Lien with 85% Equity in Port Arthur, TX

Performing Profits: Evaluating First Lien with 85% Equity in Port Arthur, TX

Author: Scott Carson July 2, 2026 Duration: 7:40

🎣 Score double-digit yields on low-balance IRA note deals!

Welcome back to the 50 Deals for 50 Days series! In this episode, Scott Carson—"The Note Guy"—takes a deep dive into an absolute gem of a low-balance re-performing note tucked away in Port Arthur, Texas. If you’ve been hunting for a safe, secure "base hit" to jump-start or boost your Self-Directed IRA without taking on huge capital risks, this real estate note breakdown is tailored exactly for you.


We are dissecting a performing first-lien mortgage on a beautiful, modern home rebuilt from the ground up in 2021. Scott lays bare the underlying math, the rock-solid equity cushioning, and the passive cash-flow potential that makes this the ultimate entry-level note deal. But remember the golden rule of note investing: don't fall in love with the real estate! You aren't buying the bricks, the plumbing, or the property management headaches—you are buying the debt and becoming the bank. Let's jump into the numbers and see how this little asset can generate an exceptional return for your portfolio.


📌 Key Takeaways & Episode Highlights

  • The Asset Blueprint: A 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 986-square-foot stilted home in Port Arthur, Texas, rebuilt entirely in 2021 with stunning park and water views.
  • Rock-Solid Equity Protection: With an online valuation around $152,000 and an unpaid legal balance of just $23,200, you are buying a first lien at an incredibly safe 15% Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio.
  • The Loan Modifications: Originally written in 2007, this loan was modified during COVID in 2020 to a low 3.75% interest rate. Because of this incredibly low rate, the borrower has zero incentive to refinance, ensuring a long-term passive holding.
  • The 13% ROI Math Breakdown: Purchasing at 80% of the legal balance ($18,560) plus a standard transaction fee puts your acquisition cost at roughly $19,560. With a $211.76 monthly payment, it creates an absolute 13% gross cash-on-cash return.
  • Net Yield After Servicing: Even after deducting standard professional third-party servicing costs ($30 to $35/month), this asset still tracks at a powerful, net 11% ROI.
  • The Perfect Solo IRA Play: Why this small-balance asset is a textbook fit for an individual or solo investor using personal funds rather than trying to raise joint-venture private capital.
  • Streamlined Due Diligence Checklist: Scott’s recommendations for a low-cost drive-by inspection, pull-comps check, and verification of the escrowed taxes and hazard insurance policy.


🛠️ Take Action & Scale Your Portfolio Today!

Don't let the second half of 2026 slip away without stacking up consistent, passive cash flow. Let's celebrate your financial independence day by taking massive action right now:

  • đź“© Submit a Bid: If you are ready to review the collateral file or put an offer in on this Port Arthur re-performing first lien, reach out directly at scott@weclosenotes.com.
  • 📞 Schedule a Call: Got questions about structuring your low-balance IRA deals? Book a direct chat on Scott's calendar at TalkWithScottCarson.com.
  • 🎓 Claim Your Education Ticket: Register for our next two-day virtual Note Buying Workshop on August 29th and 30th for just $99 at NoteBuyingForDummies.com or head to weclosenotes.com!


Watch the Original VIDEO HERE!


Book a Call With Scott HERE!


Sign up for the next FREE One-Day Note Class HERE!


Sign up for the WCN Membership HERE!


Sign up for the next Note Buying For Dummies Workshop HERE!


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Scott Carson brings his deep experience as a seasoned investor directly to you in The Note Closers Show-The #1 Podcast for Note Investing. This isn't about general real estate chatter; it's a focused dive into the specific, often overlooked niche of note investing. Each episode is built on the practical premise of acquiring control of real estate assets at significant discounts, not through traditional property management, but by understanding and investing in the debt behind them. You'll hear Scott break down complex strategies into actionable steps, sharing the nuances of evaluating, purchasing, and profiting from mortgage notes. The discussions are geared toward investors and entrepreneurs who are serious about expanding their portfolio options beyond conventional methods. Tune in for candid conversations about market trends, due diligence, risk assessment, and the real-world stories of deals that worked and those that didn't. This podcast serves as a direct line to advanced tactics and foundational knowledge, all aimed at building your confidence in this unique segment of the investment world. If you're looking to move past theory and into the practical mechanics of building wealth through notes, Scott Carson provides the roadmap in every episode.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

The Note Closers Show - The #1 Podcast for Note Investing
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