Flipping Houses in Los Angeles: A Beginner's Guide

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Flipping houses in Los Angeles can be a lucrative venture, but it's essential to understand the local market and regulations. The median home price in LA is around $650,000, making it a competitive market.

Los Angeles has specific rules and regulations regarding house flipping, including a 45-day hold period for non-resident property owners. This means that if you're not a resident, you'll need to hire a property management company to handle the property for 45 days before you can sell it.

To get started, you'll need to budget for a 20% down payment on the purchase price, which is around $130,000 for a median-priced home. This will also give you a good idea of the potential profit margins.

In LA, the average profit margin for a house flip is around 20-30%, but this can vary depending on the location, condition, and size of the property.

If this caught your attention, see: Guide to Flipping Houses

Getting Started

You can start the process today with a fix and flip loan in Los Angeles. This is a great opportunity to turn a profit in the real estate market.

House Renovation
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Fixing and flipping residential properties can be a lucrative business for those with an eye for profit and ready access to low-cost flip loans. Consider these factors if you're new to borrowing money to flip a house.

We offer fix and flip funding for non-owner occupied real estate nationwide, with the exceptions of property located in Alaska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. This means you can find a property outside of these states to flip.

We offer LTV (loan-to-value ratios) of up to 90%. This can be a significant advantage in securing the funds you need for your project.

We finance fix and flip deals from $100,000 to more than $7,000,000. This range can accommodate a variety of projects, from small renovations to large-scale developments.

No proof of income is required, and foreign nationals may apply. This makes the process more accessible to a wider range of investors.

Selecting a Market

To select a market for flipping houses in Los Angeles, you'll want to check local economic conditions. This includes housing demand and property prices, which can help you identify the best market to invest in.

Scenic View of the High Rise Building in Los Angeles
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The median sale prices in Los Angeles are a good indicator of growth in sale prices, so be sure to monitor these trends. A higher score for market competitiveness also means homes sell faster, making it a more attractive market for flipping.

Look for areas with rapid growth or supply shortages, as these can be profitable neighborhoods in LA. For example, Woodland Hills is a burgeoning area that's worth considering.

You might enjoy: Sale Los Angeles

Select a Market

The first step in flipping homes in Los Angeles is to select a market that's ripe for investment. To do this, you need to check local economic conditions.

Housing demand is a crucial factor to consider, as it directly affects property prices. You can monitor market competitiveness, which is often indicated by the speed at which homes sell.

A high market competitiveness score means homes are selling quickly, which can be a good sign for flippers. However, it's essential to balance this with growth in sale prices, as you want to ensure you're making a profit.

Cityscape of Los Angeles
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The LA real estate market trends are influenced by various factors, including economic shifts and changing demographics. Aspiring flippers should be alert to market dynamics, focusing on regions witnessing rapid growth or supply shortages.

Given the city's persistent property value appreciation, there's a potent mix of artistic and financial rewards. For instance, investors hunt for distressed properties, hoping to transform them into luxe retreats in neighborhoods like Woodland Hills.

Los Angeles has seen significant shifts in its real estate landscape over the decades, from majestic villas to modern condos. The city's resilience and adaptability have allowed it to bounce back stronger each time.

The LA housing market has witnessed inevitable downturns, but its potential remains unchanged. Investors often spot distressed properties as gold mines waiting for a touch of finesse.

With a keen eye, investors can identify hidden gems at Los Angeles property auctions, which can narrate tales of monumental house-flipping success stories. The city's real estate potential is a testament to its unique selling points and allure of potential ROI.

Broaden your view: Angel Investors California

A Beautiful House with Garage Near the Yard
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Los Angeles isn't merely a city; it's an ever-evolving canvas for real estate artistry. The city's historical resilience, unique selling points, and potential ROI make it a top destination for those wishing to venture into the transformative world of house flipping.

The Los Angeles fixer-upper scene is booming, with investors hunting for distressed properties to transform into luxe retreats. The city's persistent property value appreciation makes for a potent mix of artistic and financial rewards.

The LA home rehab market thrives on transforming old homes into luxurious dwellings, particularly in places like Woodland Hills. This renovation culture is evident in the city's passion for preserving its architectural heritage.

The LA real estate market trends are influenced by various factors, from economic shifts to changing demographics. A notable demand for homes in profitable neighborhoods in LA, including burgeoning areas like Woodland Hills, is a key factor to consider.

Homeowners often need money to make necessary repairs, making it beneficial to sell their homes as-is to an investor. Buying real estate at the lowest price possible is a recipe for success when capitalized effectively.

In Los Angeles, the demand for homes in profitable neighborhoods is on the rise, particularly in areas like Woodland Hills. Aspiring flippers should focus on regions witnessing rapid growth or supply shortages to maximize their ROI.

Financial Planning

Credit: youtube.com, Investing in LA: The 70% Rule Of House Flipping

Acquiring the funds to flip houses in Los Angeles can be a significant challenge. You can buy a house for cash, but if that's not an option, you can get a mortgage or a HELOC to finance the purchase.

A mortgage can increase your costs, so it's essential to shop for lenders who charge lower interest. Using a mortgage calculator in Los Angeles can help you compare lending rates.

If you're looking for a fix and flip loan, you can consider options with loan amounts starting at $100,000, up to 90% LTC, and a loan term of 12-18 months. Make sure to check the lender's requirements, such as a FICO score of 650+ and a single purpose entity borrower.

Here are some key features to consider when choosing a fix and flip loan:

  • Loan Amount: $100,000+LTC
  • Loan Term: 12-18 Months
  • FICO: 650+
  • Borrower Type: Single Purpose Entity
  • Recourse: Full PG

Arrange Your Finances

To arrange your finances for flipping houses in Los Angeles, you can buy a property with cash to avoid interest costs. If you don't have enough funds, you can get a mortgage or a HELOC to finance the purchase.

Narrow Alley and Skyscrapers behind in Los Angeles
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Shopping for lenders who charge lower interest rates can help maximize your profits. A mortgage calculator in Los Angeles can be a useful tool to compare lending rates.

Securing the best financing options is crucial for a successful flip in the LA real estate landscape. From traditional bank loans to partnering with angel investors or exploring hard money lenders, there are diverse avenues for house-flipping financing in Los Angeles.

Research is critical before choosing an appropriate lender for your venture, as the profit margin of investing in a fix and flip property can be significant, but the investment can also have pitfalls.

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a fix and flip lender:

• The property's condition prior to funding

• The borrower's on-hand cash they plan to use on the property

• The details of the rehab, whether or not there will be additions or improvements

• After Repair Value (ARV) or value of the subject property after flip

• The borrower's previous experience in the buying and flipping business

Adjusting the amount of cash you put down, improving your credit score, and adding additional bathrooms or bedrooms can also impact the loan terms.

On a similar theme: How to Value Reits

Visit Bank Auctions:

Buildings in Los Angeles California
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Bank auctions are a great way to buy foreclosed properties at a lower price. You can get these homes below their market value.

Banks hold these auctions to sell the houses as fast as possible. This means you can find a good deal on a property that might otherwise be out of your budget.

Auctions provide opportunities to buy foreclosed properties.

On a similar theme: Landbank Properties

Home's 70% Rule

The 70% rule is a crucial part of home flipping financial planning. It helps you determine the maximum amount you should pay for a property.

To calculate this, you'll need to know the after-repair value (ARV) of the home. This is the value of the property after it's fully repaired. The ARV is used to figure out how much you can spend on a home.

For example, if the ARV of a home is $300,000 and the estimated renovation cost is $30,000, your purchase price will be $180,000.

The formula to use is: (ARV * 70%) - Repairs = Maximum Purchase Price. This will give you a clear idea of how much you can afford to spend on a property.

For another approach, see: Mobile Home Flipping

Calculating ROI: Tools and Metrics

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Calculating ROI is crucial to ensure a successful house flipping venture.

Incorporating refurbishment expenditures in regions such as Woodland Hills is essential for accurate ROI assessments.

Utilizing instruments to assess house-flipping ROI in Los Angeles is indispensable.

Forecasting selling prices grounded on Los Angeles property values is a key factor in determining ROI.

Maintaining a data-driven mindset is pivotal to guarantee a fruitful result.

Finding a Property

To find a property in Los Angeles that's ripe for flipping, start by scouting the best areas in the city. Areas like Woodland Hills, which is a burgeoning neighborhood, often have undervalued properties waiting to be polished.

You can simplify your search by using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which allows you to filter properties by price, location, and condition. Look for properties that have been on the market for 60 days or more, as these sellers are more eager to negotiate and close a deal.

Venture into Los Angeles property auctions to find promising opportunities, and engage with LA real estate wholesalers to get exclusive insights on below-market-value properties. Building relationships with wholesalers can grant you access to properties that others may not know about, particularly in high-demand locales like Woodland Hills.

What Does 'Houses' Mean?

Aerial View of a Building in Los Angeles
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So, you're wondering what "houses" means in the context of house flipping? Well, it's quite simple really. Houses are residential properties that are bought, renovated, and then sold for a profit.

In the case of house flipping in Los Angeles, you're looking for undervalued homes that need some TLC. These can be foreclosed or probate homes, which are often sold at a lower cost than their market value.

To give you a better idea, here's a breakdown of the types of properties you can consider:

  • Distressed properties (foreclosed and probate homes)

These types of homes are often a good starting point for house flippers, as they can be purchased at a lower cost and then renovated to increase their value.

How to Build a House

Building a house from scratch requires careful planning and execution. Knowing the right strategies to start flipping houses in Los Angeles, such as the 6 easy steps mentioned earlier, can also be applicable to building a house.

Person in protective gear painting a wall, showcasing house renovation work.
Credit: pexels.com, Person in protective gear painting a wall, showcasing house renovation work.

You'll need to secure a suitable plot of land, which can be found by searching for properties in a specific area, like Los Angeles, CA. It's essential to consider factors like zoning laws and property taxes.

Building a house involves designing the layout, selecting materials, and hiring contractors. The process can be complex, but with a clear plan and budget, you can achieve your goals.

Researching local building codes and regulations will help you navigate the process more efficiently. This will ensure that your house meets all the necessary requirements.

To minimize costs and delays, it's crucial to work with experienced professionals, such as contractors and architects. Their expertise will be invaluable in bringing your vision to life.

Building a house can take several months to a year or more to complete, depending on the scope of the project. Staying organized and focused will help you stay on track and avoid costly mistakes.

Find a Property

Carney's Restaurant on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles
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Finding a property in Los Angeles can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can zero in on a distressed home or fixer-upper. Scout for the best areas in Los Angeles to flip houses, such as Woodland Hills, which often hide undervalued gems.

To pinpoint undervalued properties, leverage tools like Los Angeles property auctions and engage with LA real estate wholesalers. These connections can grant you exclusive insights on below-market-value properties, particularly in high-demand locales.

You can also use the MLS to simplify your search with filters such as price, location, and property condition. Look for undervalued properties that need repairs or are in high-demand areas.

Properties that have been on the MLS for 60 days or more signal a faster deal. These sellers are comparatively more eager to negotiate and close a deal.

Here are some key areas to consider when searching for properties:

Building relationships with LA real estate wholesalers can grant you exclusive insights on below-market-value properties. This can be a game-changer in finding undervalued gems in the LA property investment scene.

Inspection and Renovation

Skyscrapers in Los Angeles
Credit: pexels.com, Skyscrapers in Los Angeles

A home inspection can be a costly oversight, with 86% of inspections revealing at least one issue, often related to roofing, pests, and plumbing.

It's crucial to identify fundamental issues early on, which a home inspector in Los Angeles can help with, increasing the chances of selling your house for a higher price.

Fix Loans for New Investors

For new investors, finding the right fix and flip loan can be a challenge. Traditional bank loans often come with high-interest rates, making it difficult to compete with experienced investors who have cash on hand.

Research is critical before choosing a lender, as partnering with the wrong financial partner can lead to pitfalls. The profit margin of investing in a fix and flip property can be significant, but it's essential to find a lender that meets your unique needs.

Private money loans can be a viable option for new investors, offering more flexible terms and faster access to cash. Sunset Equity is a top business in the industry that specializes in offering the best fix and flip loans to accommodate new investors' needs.

Credit: youtube.com, FIXER UPPPER - FHA 203K Rehab Loan | LESSONS LEARNED

A reliable and trustworthy lender is crucial, as they should be able to provide pre-approval and secure an investment property quickly. Look for a lender that offers reasonable rates and can provide cash in hand within a couple of weeks.

Avoid lenders who try to upsell you on services or aren't invested in the details of your investment. Your lender should hold an equal interest in your selected property, helping you with research and calculations to determine its profitability.

Home Inspection

A home inspection can be a game-changer when selling your house, especially if you're dealing with a distressed property. 86% of inspections reveal at least one issue.

You'd be surprised at the problems that can hide behind a property's facade. Issues with roofing, pests, and plumbing are common, and can be costly to neglect.

A home inspector can help you identify these fundamental issues, increasing the chances of selling your house for a higher price.

Renovation Essentials

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Renovation Essentials are crucial for a successful makeover. To align your renovation vision with a realistic budget, consider structural changes, materials, and labor costs.

In areas like Woodland Hills, costs can vary, so localized research is paramount. This will ensure you're not caught off guard by unexpected expenses.

Collaborating with interior designers who have a pulse on LA home rehab trends can boost property appeal. Incorporating elements popular in areas such as Woodland Hills can make your property stand out.

To execute your renovation smoothly, hire trusted contractors familiar with LA house flipping laws. This will ensure you're adhering to necessary permits and avoiding costly fines.

LA's Vintage Homes Renovated

Renovation in LA isn't just about upgrading structures; it's about artfully combining the city's historic charm with contemporary elegance. From Spanish Colonial homes to Mid-century Modern masterpieces, there's a tangible passion for preserving LA's architectural heritage.

In areas like Woodland Hills, the LA home rehab market thrives on transforming old homes into luxurious dwellings. This deep-rooted renovation culture is evident in the bustling market.

Credit: youtube.com, Old House Inspection | Top 5 Issues

Budgeting is crucial when renovating a vintage home in LA. Consider aspects like structural changes, materials, and labor costs, and research localized costs in areas like Woodland Hills.

Collaborate with interior designers who have a pulse on LA home rehab trends to incorporate elements popular in areas such as Woodland Hills. This can boost property appeal and increase returns on investment.

Here are some key elements to consider when renovating a vintage home in LA:

* Budgeting:

+ Align your renovation vision with a realistic budget

+ Consider structural changes, materials, and labor costs

+ Research localized costs in areas like Woodland Hills

* Designing:

+ Collaborate with interior designers who understand LA home rehab trends

+ Incorporate elements popular in areas like Woodland Hills

* Executing:

+ Hire trusted contractors familiar with LA house flipping laws

+ Ensure adherence to house flipping permits in LA

+ Maintain a timeline and ensure regular quality checks

Curious to learn more? Check out: Flipping Houses Taxes

Selling and Marketing

Listing your flipped house on the MLS is a great way to reach more buyers. You can also save 3% on the listing agent commission by using a Flat Fee MLS Los Angeles company.

Sell Your House

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You can sell your flipped house in Los Angeles on the MLS, which will give you maximum exposure to potential buyers.

Listing via a Flat Fee MLS Los Angeles company can help your flip reach more buyers, and you can also save 3% on the listing agent commission.

If you've used hard money to finance the house, you'll need to sell it quickly or refinance to hold it, due to high interest and maintenance costs.

Listing on the MLS with Houzeo will help you quickly sell the house for a flat fee, saving 3% in agent commissions and offering 100% virtual services.

By selling your flipped house on the MLS, you can get the best price possible and move on to your next project.

A fresh viewpoint: Watch Flipped

Prepping for a Successful Sale

To prep for a successful sale, it's essential to stage homes to showcase potential, as high-quality imagery can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers. This is especially crucial in Los Angeles, where the competitive landscape demands attention-grabbing marketing strategies.

In Los Angeles, fixer-uppers are plentiful, so it's vital to use digital platforms to amplify visibility and engage with influential real estate agents, especially in sought-after neighborhoods like Woodland Hills.

Double Close Strategy

A woman working on home renovation featuring a wooden staircase.
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The Double Close Strategy is a short-term real estate investment strategy that allows you to flip houses quickly with minimal cash investment.

This strategy involves a contract assignment that gives you the sole right to sell the real estate, which you can then turn around and sell for a profit in a short period.

You can use off-market real estate leads to find houses for less than their market value, making it easier to flip them for a profit.

By using the double-close strategy, you can realize relatively fast profits from your real estate investments.

In Los Angeles, this strategy is often used in wholesaling deals, where you pay cash for a quick deed transfer or use the double-close strategy to minimize your investment outlay.

A fast flip with minimum cash investment is the goal of the double-close strategy, making it an attractive option for real estate investors.

Avoiding Mistakes

Overlooking due diligence is a common mistake that can lead to costly surprises. Research a property's history, especially in older neighborhoods like Woodland Hills, to uncover hidden issues that can result in unexpected expenses.

Aerial Shot of City, Los Angeles, California, USA
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial Shot of City, Los Angeles, California, USA

In LA, it's essential to stay updated on real estate market trends to avoid misjudging the market. Overpricing can leave a property unsold, while underpricing can result in lost profit.

To avoid fines, ensure that all necessary permits are secured before starting renovations. Illegal modifications can result in heavy fines, so it's crucial to follow the rules.

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

  • Overlooking Due Diligence: Research a property's history to uncover hidden issues.
  • Misjudging the Market: Stay updated on LA real estate market trends to avoid overpricing or underpricing.
  • Neglecting Permits: Secure all necessary permits before starting renovations to avoid fines.

Can I?

Can I flip houses with no money? Yes, it's possible, but you'll need to get creative with your financing options. Hard money lenders can provide quick capital at higher interest rates, typically between 12% and 18%. This can be a good option if you're looking for a fast turnaround.

Private money lenders can offer even better rates, usually between 8% and 10%, and you can often get additional funds on top of your hard money loan. Property wholesaling is another option, where you can find a seller who wants to sell a distressed home as is and assign the contract to a buyer for a higher price. This way, you can earn the price difference without needing any upfront cash.

See what others are reading: Private Lenders for Flipping Houses

Sixth Street Bridge in Los Angeles, California
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You can also use a combination of hard money and private money lenders to fund your flip. This can be a good way to spread out the risk and get the best rates possible. Just be sure to do your research and understand the terms of each loan before committing.

Chapter 6: Expert Tips for Successful Home Sellers

As you put your flipped house on the market, you want to reach as many potential buyers as possible. Listing your home on the MLS is a great way to get maximum exposure.

You can save 3% on the listing agent commission by listing via Flat Fee MLS Los Angeles companies. This can add up to a significant amount of money, especially if you're selling a high-end property.

Listing your home on the MLS is a crucial step in the home-selling process. You can reach more buyers and sell your home faster by taking advantage of this option.

By choosing a Flat Fee MLS Los Angeles company, you can ensure that your home is seen by a wider audience. This can be especially important in a competitive market like Los Angeles.

Mistakes to Avoid in Business

Wide corridor in modern house with white tiled walls and floor black wooden doors and shelves for storage built in wall
Credit: pexels.com, Wide corridor in modern house with white tiled walls and floor black wooden doors and shelves for storage built in wall

In the world of business, making mistakes can be costly. Overlooking due diligence can lead to unexpected expenses, especially when researching a property's history in older neighborhoods like Woodland Hills.

It's essential to stay updated on market trends to avoid misjudging the market. Overpricing a property can leave it unsold, while underpricing can result in lost profit.

Ensuring you have all necessary permits before starting renovations is crucial. In LA, neglecting permits can result in heavy fines for illegal modifications.

Some common pitfalls to watch out for include:

  • Overlooking due diligence
  • Misjudging the market
  • Neglecting permits

These mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to rectify. By being aware of them, you can take steps to avoid them and ensure a smoother business operation.

Harnessing Technology: Tools and Platforms

Virtual tours are a game-changer for LA flippers, allowing potential buyers to explore properties from the comfort of their own homes.

In a vast city like LA, it's crucial to have a way to showcase properties to buyers who can't physically visit them. Virtual tours make it possible for buyers to get a feel for the property without having to leave their own neighborhood.

White Concrete 2-storey House
Credit: pexels.com, White Concrete 2-storey House

Digital marketing is another powerful tool for LA flippers. By using targeted ads, you can attract potential buyers from specific locales, such as Woodland Hills.

This targeted approach helps you reach the right people at the right time, increasing the chances of selling your property quickly and for the best price.

Renovation apps can be a huge help in managing your LA home rehab project. These tools can help you budget, design, and manage your project efficiently.

Budgeting is a key part of any renovation project, and renovation apps can help you stay on track and avoid costly mistakes.

Networking and Partnerships

Networking and Partnerships are crucial in flipping houses in Los Angeles. To succeed, you need to build strong connections with others in the industry.

Attend real estate meetups and clubs to line up financing, contractors, and realtors for your flip. The National Real Estate Investors Association (REIA) events are an excellent resource for this.

Aerial view of a luxurious residential area in sunny Los Angeles, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
Credit: pexels.com, Aerial view of a luxurious residential area in sunny Los Angeles, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes.

Engage with wholesalers in LA to get early insights into properties about to hit the market. This can give you a competitive edge in the LA real estate arena.

Attend seminars to learn and network with other house flippers in LA. Hearing success stories can be a motivational boost and provide valuable insights.

Partner with experienced Los Angeles real estate agents familiar with hotspots like Woodland Hills to navigate the market efficiently. This can help you find the right properties and close deals quickly.

Here are some key partnerships to consider:

  • Wholesalers: LA real estate wholesalers can offer early insights into properties about to hit the market.
  • Contractors: Skilled contractors experienced in Woodland Hills renovations can help you complete your projects efficiently.
  • Realtors: Partner with seasoned Los Angeles real estate agents familiar with hotspots like Woodland Hills to navigate the market efficiently.
  • Legal consultants: Consider hiring legal consultants familiar with LA house flipping laws to ensure you're in compliance.

A cohesive team can significantly elevate the quality and efficiency of your project. By assembling the right team and building strong industry connections, you'll be well on your way to flipping success in LA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 70% rule in house flipping?

The 70% rule in house flipping is a guideline that advises investors to pay no more than 70% of a property's after-repair value minus renovation costs. This rule helps flippers determine a fair purchase price for a fixer-upper property.

How much money do you need to flip a house in Los Angeles?

To flip a house in Los Angeles, you'll need around $25,000 to $50,000 for renovations, plus additional costs for holding and marketing the property. This initial investment can vary depending on the property's condition and location.

Is house flipping in California profitable?

Yes, house flipping in California can be profitable, with an average gross profit of $95,000 per transaction and a return on investment (ROI) of around 16%. However, the profitability of house flipping in California depends on various factors, including location, market conditions, and renovation costs.

Wilbur Huels

Senior Writer

Here is a 100-word author bio for Wilbur Huels: Wilbur Huels is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in finance and investing. With a strong background in research and analysis, he brings a unique perspective to his writing, making complex topics accessible to a wide range of readers. His articles have been featured in various publications, covering topics such as investment funds and their role in shaping the global financial landscape.

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