So, though I've never owned a home in my life, I've gotten over this fear and made the decision to take an active part in REI for myself.What can I say?

I think you will find them to be quite helpful.We'll try and do what we can to help you learn what you need to know and overcome all of your fears so you can become a successful investor!

The IRS in particular is feared but does not have priority.

the challenge seems to be in finding an escrow/title company that will allow the "double escrow" to be done.....for example: there is an escrow open that is required by the lender once the "approval" from the lender is secured....then there needs to be another escrow opened between the "buyer" and the "end-buyer" on the same property....so, "end buyer" comes into escrow with the $300K plus closing costs, closes existing escrow on the property...then the title/escrow officer walks into the next room and applies the $250K plus closing costs to the original escrow to close that one.in theory and once in the past this was the way it was and still should be...but, now as it seems, most escrow/title companies are not wanting to do the "double" escrow for reasons of "full disclosure" to all parties, for fear of not being "sued" for some type of fraud.those of us not engaging in these tactics get penalized.....but, such is life....i have a title company that has stated they will do a "double" escrow but, will need to let the lender know this fact. not disclose the "amount" the "end-buyer" is paying, merely disclose there is a 'double" escrow in effect....well, obviously this should kill the deal right at the very end....so, not a wise direction to take....

That person in that SUV paid over twice what I'm paying for a duplex.So for me the only fear (so far) was when I saw the settlement statement.

I am a real estate agent, but I understand those fears completely.

Maybe I am too fearful but I don't see anybody on these boards talking about the credit crunch much and how it will effect their ability to resell the homes they are trying to SS.Or else, you somehow think these lenders in trouble are going to help us SS investors get more deals approved.

I promise i wont be a nagging newbie lol.

I'll be cutting into the floor and fear that there may be raw sewage under the house (the leak wasn't the first hint!).

Combined Rents 1250.00 per monthIt sounds like I might get away with no money down, but my fear is that he is going to ask too high of a monthly payment to meet the 50% rule.