Low Budget areas to invest/live.

[Eli Mohrland]

I've been approved for a 150k dollar loan and would like to discontinue renting as soon as possible. I'd like to find something that I can move into immediately but needs some work. I've worked in construction for five years and would be able to complete most renovations myself and would be willing to put around 50k total into the renovations.

I'm looking for areas where this price range could fly. I need to be within 30 minutes of a preschool and in a low crime neighborhood/area. I would be willing to move anywhere in the US for the right deal but would prefer to stay in the pacific northwest area as far south as Colorado.

Thanks for any insights!