From there we identify properties that could have some potential and if you are interesting in diving deeper, 1) we do a thorough video walkthrough to give you a realistic look of the property, 2) we give a ballpark estimate of rehab costs (we do 40 a year with our GCs o we will get pretty close), 3) we talk through market rent with our property management team, ARV, and potential highest and best use.Ideally you find great investor agents who know their market really well and have a network of resources to provide you with enough confidence to take reasonable action. 

As for brokers saying "I don't work for free," they'll be paid out of the seller's agreed commission.

Strong dollar means higher component costs.3.  

The larger the purchase price the greater the spread you need between purchase price plus holding costs plus rehab cost and ARV.  40k projected profit on a 600k project is too skinny for me. 

Additional software estimates renovation costs and provides actionable analytics.

An important thing to note is to learn how to calculate estimated closing costs.

This is a great look cost preventative maintenance thing It also allows you to "inspect" your property periodically

It saved my quite a bit on interest costs.

Lets say its $270k and you are financing $220k and it takes a year at 12% thats $26k in interest plus other costs etc.

Note that legal and transfer costs are not deductible but can be added to your cost basis.