I wasn't really willing to tackle a larger project, but after being successful with my first rental for 5 months, I'm after something that is more risky, but will generate a higher return.

I dont think I want to tackle a distance flip for my 1st.

The corroded plumbing haunted my dreams, but we couldn’t tackle the kitchen first because renovations to the kitchen was not listed on the 403b repairs list.

Trying to tackle our fix and flips and finish 7 a month all year! 

@Drew Wiardlet me know anytime u want to tackle one of these, I can walk you through it isnt that bad, low entry price point, nice house when done, about the same as you may otherwise spend, but less maintenance as it all gets done in the rehab. 

My question is, when is it worth tackling crime (if ever), and is there some way to estimate financial impact?

I've found out that they are very sensitive when it comes to flagging(deleting) posts that look like spam.  

It may have ended up in your Spam folder?

I did a few searches and Google and found Bigger Pockets, and I'm a big fan already.I really like the hands-on idea of real estate investing, and after reading some books and listening to a bunch of Bigger Pockets podcasts I think I'd like to tackle the 'buy and hold' strategy and become a landlord.I'm really excited about this, although I'm a bit nervous--especially since the housing market here on the central coast is a bit steep, so I'm not sure how exactly I'm going to make this work and if I'm going to invest locally.I'm looking forward to learning more, connecting with people, and beginning to build my real estate investments.

A HELOC will definitely help you with the costs.The next thing you will need is a general budget for each project you are going to tackle and that should keep you on track.The kitchen can be the most difficult especially when you are living in it.