(assuming its a quality place) This is the only area I would consider renting in the upper middle class price range and feel comfortable.

That roadmap, as of right now, is outlined.Learn - Keep FTJ (Full Time Job)Books, podcasts, BP, peopleFTJ and PTJ options: Go back into being a residential handyman and contractorWholesale - Keep FTJRamp up Wholesaling, possibly until either quitting or finding a PTJ to offset Wholesaling goal - raise capital to flip laterPlataeu Wholesaling, ramp up Flipping while ramping down WholesalingPlataeu Flipping, ramp up Buy-and-HoldLong Term Goal: rental portfolio with extra capital to invest in othersMy motivation does include swinging hammers (I love the physical work), but I recognize that won't be where I need to put myself to make money past the short-term (and my body won't be able to do that forever).

I sent the upper tenant a 30 days money for keys letter as he said that he cannot afford paying 750$.

That said, let's talk about the alleged sticking points: a heated drive in a colder climate is DEFINITELY attractive (...says my aging but stubborn snow-shoveling body in New England.)

I was going to take the profit from the flip and finish my home to get it ready to rent it, and purchase another fixer upper out right and make it livable and live in it till I finish it and then rent it out.

Like to buy somewhat fixer uppers love in them for 2 or more years then sell them for a profit.

So does anyone know of any good contractors that can handle fixer-upper restorations in the Columbia, SC area?

I was looking at a 4 family that was a fixer upper for about this same price, but it was in a decent area.

Alternately remove them and extend the upper deck to the left end of the building.

Your tenet thinks they have the upper hand, have them sign lease or start eviction proceedings.