Do you know bike mechanics?

Structurally and mechanically the house was fine with the exception of the water heater.  

Take the cost of the home long term add the mortgage, taxes and true repair costs such as upkeep and new roofs , heating and cooling mechanicals etc over the years.

Refinancing sounds like a great option however I am not sure if I can qualify as I started my own auto repair business about 1.5 years ago.

The Code guy shows up with a Code lady like this is an auto accident and they got to have six cops on the scene.

While I was/am not an inspector, I have good mechanical skills and construction fundamentals, so the walk thru was sufficient. 

My husband bid on an auction.com... and wasn't willing to meet reserve - yes, he was bidding against himself via the auto counter bid @Josh Anders mentioned. 

Regarding "tax sale flipping," I think the mechanics of what you are describing would work, but I don't understand why an investor would buy the tax deed from you at a markup instead of buying it directly at the auction.  

As an investor, I take care with my flips to have all the majors covered (foundation/roof/mechanicals).

I'm interested in real estate investment brokerage (day job), real estate investing (night/weekend job), family, friends, and Formula 1 auto racing.Though I'm only now a member, I've been familiar and lurking with BP for years.