So check foundation, keep a close eye on it for a little bit, take measurements of the crack and anything you can in the foundation to track changes.

Hi there,I'm a newbie from Istanbul / Turkey (far from US) trying to learn as much as I can in REI in US by reading forums, blogs, books, listening podcasts.

The key is to buy a property with a fat cashflow that more than pays off the HELOC.

I have no experience in real estate but i am definitely interested and willing to learn, listen and become as educated as i can in real estate.  

The fats cats are on a free ride...............so be prepared for their greed to cause more havok one day when we least expect it. 

Connect with me in my inbox, and I'll explain it in better detail than I can in this limited amount of space.

I really got my license for the education more than to become a realtor plus I like the fact that any property I buy in the future for 500-600K  I will get a fat commission check!!!! 

Read as much as you can in the field and check out as many of the BP forums as you can too!

Rentals are one area where the little guy can still compete with the mega corps and large apt complexes, often winning over some choice tenants with personal service, flexible terms, and small touches...Just a few ways, off the top of my head, that I think we can gain a competitive advantage over more rigidly run large complexes (though all markets vary, so these are based on my experiences)....) flexible terms (I offer a six month or one year lease; of course, most six month folks renew, but some like the flexibility; some large complexes are "one year or nothing" in my market..)) new mats (inside and out of the doors; bath, even runners or area rugs in high traffic area for vinyl plank flooring)...while they add some "wow factor" and look like gifts, there is self interest at work here, however, as the matting greatly reduces wear and tear on my flooring.) pets on approval ( I have some of the best behaved canine tenants imaginable, and their high quality tenant owners stay long term, are respectful, and pay well,yet are often shunned by many "no pets" larger places)) small (tax deductible) $20 gift card at holidays ..

Ever since, I have been reading, listening to the podcasts and educating myself as much as I can. In