When looking for a duplex, don't forget to consider the possibility of 2 homes on 1 lot...some good keywords would be things like 'granny flat' or 'in-laws quarters'.

In addition, I tend to do things like install quarter-turn shutoffs on all the water lines, make sure smoke detectors are installed, all lights are working etc.

Add 31.25 for every quarter percent you get above 2%.

Here is NationStar's SEC filing showing in the table at the top of page 34 that REOs cost the company millions per quarter.

You need to run payroll, file taxes (quarterly?)

Inventories of existing homes for sale have continued to improve over the last two quarters, declining from 3.2 million in the second quarter to 2.4 million in the fourth quarter.

Ken Latchers - Thanks for the feedback, I really appreciate it- I'm pretty sure I addressed or have thought about your concerns at this point-1) I found a cost effective HSA/high deductible plan which should fit well, 2) Agreed- the lack of recurring, reliable funds is a trade off 3) I will have $50k in cash reserves, plus already have a RE LOC at $50k, credit card max of $30k, and 3 F&C properties just in case, 4) I have already secured the funding to continue growing over the next 18 months at the current rate of 2 properties per quarter.

If it's a longer job then usually work something out like 10% upfront and quarterly payments until completed.

I guess the real question is: Do you want to own a trailer park for a quarter million dollars, or do you want to do other things?

This provides a great shaded covered pation are below.You might consider a small kitchen area, 6' of cabinets, a fridge hook up and a small sink bar, it can be a wet bar or with a bedroom down there a mother-in-law quarters, especially near a hospital where someone is caring for a parent.