We actually ended up buying 45 houses for hold in just over a year.  

In fact, my I can reduce my overhead/profit number because I'll be comfortable I won't incur surprise costs like having to eat a $2k change order for unknown circumstances or having to pay interest on your $10k material bill because you won't pay me for 45 days.

Considering that the Bay Area has a 45-60% chance of being in a bubble right now, I wouldn't advise investing in the local area.

My father has been in the buying and selling in real estate (mostly commercial) for about 45 years and he has taught me a little bit.  

For example in washington DC the properties are mostly equity plays where cash flow is very low, but you go 45 minutes outside of DC and you are in it for cash flow.

It's also possible that after you use a contractor a time or two and he has gotten some of your money he may be willing to give you some freebie estimates because now you're more of a sure thing.Before you buy the property, the contractor might be thinking that I'll have to visit 4-5 properties for this guy without compensation only to maybe not get the work after all.  

I have lined up commercial loan which may take another 45 days to close.Now my question is that I have found a w2 job that I will start in 15 days (Oct 17th).

Rent: $600/ monthTaxes: $45/monthInsurance: Waiting on a quote, estimating $50/moListed for 33,000, I am intending to offer 29 cash deal.Let me know what you think please!

have a general contractor go to the house and give you a price, this way you can compare prices if you are that unsure. also you called him 2 hrs ago ( so about 5: 45 ?)

The catch is that we both have to drive 45 mins to/from work.