fix-it-all (joint compound with some additives) is not suitable for exterior at allYes it will wick in water as the paint deteriorates, and cause more rot, and keeping a good coat of paint on it won't be enough long-term in many/most climates.bondo (polyester auto body resin) is a cheap-ish "alternative", although harder to get detail work just right and not really all that suitable anyway (maybe ok with a good epoxy / primer, perhaps?).

I sold 4 cheap rentals in Gulfport/Buloxi this past year because I got sick of the hurricanes and carrying insurance pretty much eliminated almost all cashflow. 

When you say "deal" do you mean "cheap?" 

They are not cheap and obviously require some kind of cellular plan, but I was able to get them to work using Mint mobile (you need a phone to activate the sim card on first, like an old iphone) Ive had 3 of these up watching a property in Cleveland, OH for well over a year, and Ive only had one issue where I needed to go check on the camera itself, (the plug for the solar panel came disconnected and just needed plugged back in) This camera in particular is nice because its actually 2 lenses that capture the full 180 degrees, so one cellular plan for "2" cameras.

@Drew SygitMy dad was...a weird guy, propped up by this enormous misplaced pride and self-confidence in his intellect coupled with this cheap self-pity and hypochondria.

Membership is cheap, networking is great, and sometimes the support resources are surprising.

We are approaching the capital to buy a cheap cabin in cash if we wanted to, but feel like that isn't the best use of our nest egg. 

Otherwise, I buy the cheap trendy furniture at target and then offer to sell it to the new owners right before closing.

Owner demands are forcing PMCs to hire cheap VA's from foreign countries, but it's difficult to train these VA's about industry knowledge and American customs. 

I place only used and would never pay for a new stove or refrigerator.I simply keep my eyes out for good working stoves and fridges and usually have a couple spares on hand and if something goes down that is not an easy fix I just grab the trailer and dolly and exchange it.And in my area you can find working white stoves and single fridges for $100.00 each if you pick it up yourself.Wow, that is cheap.