Background:  I have a very nice, older duplex that is in a great neighborhood and has lots of charm and character - plus it's in very good condition. 

The wood is a lot of upkeep but worth the charm and guest appreciation and demand.

One more.... electrical was knob and tube so I had the house wired to current code as a buying condition under the premise of a potential fire hazard.My reason for purchasing the house was two-fold: my lack of funds at the time (0% down with VA) and my partiality toward the charm of the home style. 

Charming 3 bedroom ranch In process of renovations What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

But we've owned mostly older homes -- we live in an 1890s home right now in the Old North End because we like the charm -- and I can tell you that our maintenance and capX costs are significantly higher than our new build buyer clients.

What a neat story about saving a historic home, it looks charming!

Cleaned, painted, knocked down a wall, sanded floors and gave it a cool, funky vibe to go with it's 1940's charm.

These are the questions you need to answer otherwise I'd SELL this "charming updated ranch style starter home $300K"... and park that money in something stable and boring. 

Purchase price: $290,000 Cash invested: $120,000 Sale price: $515,000 Contributors: Garrett Quinn, Megan Halter Charming remodeled craftsman on quiet tree lined street in the N Everett Historical District.

Charming master suite includes 3/4 shower with glass doors & custom selected finishes.