The neighbors were so happy I fixed up the place, they used to bring me stuff from their gardens when I was over there working.

I would like to have them pay for gardening, pool maintenance, and plumbing.

@Colleen F. n WA is a title and escrow state he simply needs to walk into any title company with his contract that he can buy at office depot.. in this area they are called Stevens Ness forms.. fill in the blanks and for this simple transaction that is all that is needed title co will handle the rest.. lawyer would be over kill....

Lots of makeshift storage on the lot (chicken coop, garden shed, etc).

Make phone calls to contractors, talk to others, go watch a job, hang out at home depot, learn material costs. do the legwork. 

@Dani BorowTake your 50k and partner with an established veteran and take notes along the way. 50k and real-life, hands-on experience will go a lot further than 50k spent in a classroom.As far as materials and SKUs, you can find this information online or at your local Home Depot or Lowes.

If that doesn't work, go to home depot and rent a pressure washer and get a commercial degreaser for oil stains

It takes constant follow up, diligence and overall intestinal fortitude, let alone a lot of faith in a stranger with your Home Depot account. 

Keywords: Logan Square / Wicker Park / Belmont Gardens / Chicago

A Home Depot line of credit for 5k got it done for me with a very cheap contractor and good friends and family.