Try to buy in an area that's on the way up.Be on the lookout for any hazards common to older properties, such as asbestos, lead-based paint and electrical systems that are not up to code.

I think the following ad, run in a London newspaper in search of an arctic exploration team about sums up what any entrepreneur should consider before taking the leap:MEN WANTED: FOR HAZARDOUS JOURNEY.

I read where most of you have regrets about the deal you *didn't* do and the investor vs. observer thing but I'm still having trouble deciding how to convince myself to leave the relative safety of knowing I can make all my payments to letting other people make them for me and worrying about what happens if they don't later on.

The seller is still obligated to disclose or disclaim any safety or major structural problems, both of which may be found during the inspection.

Let's say a tenants asks the LLC to repair a broken deadbolt lock and it takes you 3-4 days to get around to it, and in the mean time someone breaks in and assaults your tenant, you could be charged with negligence towards the safety of your tenant--this is serious stuff.

I can agree with both of you, but still think duplexes have more of a safety net if they are purchased correctly.Our investors are buying at between 50-70% of the ARV.

who's selling, why are they selling, how hungry are they, condition of the neighborhood (safety/properties/etc), and condition of the unit itself (can I do the repairs, what's it gonna cost me) and finally, the quality of renters in the area and vacancy rates.good luck...

Rehab portion of the loan typically not to exceed acquisition cost.Guarantee:Personal guarantee required.Loan Docs:After-Repaired-Value Appraisal (obtained by Onward Financial)(for each loan)Purchase and Sales AgreementSummary of Rehab Work to be completedTitle Policy (obtained by Onward Financial)Hazard InsuranceQuick Funding:Once a borrower has been approved, funding of investment properties can occur as quickly as 5 days.

No environmental hazards (dept of health, zoning checks)4.

I don't think it's a safety issue, just a funky smell.