Day 1 - Under Contract, Finally.We began our search for a suitable fix-and-flip property in the eastern suburbs of Cleveland in early January after securing the necessary funds from an investor partner (50/50 profit split).

Electrical and plumbing checked to be suitable and serviceable.

In addition to the good responses you have already received I would suggest you charge a higher monthly rent if you decide to lease for 6 months (plus 1 months deposit as already stated) instead of waiting for a suitable applicant for 12 month lease because you will have cleaning/releasing expenses at a minimum when the 6 month lease is up.

Not all states' tax code recognize that a 1031 exchange exists, so in those states you will pay tax on the gains to the state tax collector.Best to calculate your expected tax obligations both ways to see how much you actually benefit; don't forget to add in fees paid to the QI for the scenario where you assume doing the exchange.The other thing to consider is how long will it take you to find suitable replacement(s).

Fix and flip projects are essentially where I'm investing right now, so definitely a suitable option for me.

Also, recent legislation in CA requires big down payments when a trust deed investor, like yourself, is involved, and, you must be "suitable" for the investment.

My good buddy is considering purchasing some rental properties in Indianapolis and wanted to get some feedback on the locations from insiders who know the Indy market well.The first one is on Cork Bend Dr (46239) and the second one is located on Clarkson Dr (46254).He will probably make a flight out there to check things out for himself, but wants to know upfront if these areas are suitable for investing in.

If not, then this really may be more suitable for an owner/occupier, where leasing the extra space is going to help cover costs.

Namely, finding a motivated seller, negotiating a deal, and then locating a suitable tenant/buyer. 

I'm also just starting to do some research on if SFH flips make sense there; there are a lot of sub-$100k properties available but I'm not sure if the neighborhoods they're in are suitable for flips.Good luck with your search and keep us updated!