The upper tenant doesn't even have the gas activated for whatever reason. 

I actually had a lender approve me for up to 200k but it was FHA and all the fixer uppers were out of the question as they didn't meet FHA rules, and the 3/2s were highly desirable and went well over 200, so I wasn't able to get anything last year. 

I am planning a kitchen remodel and master bathroom addition in my fixer upper. 

BTW are you looking to buy value add properties (fixer uppers) or more something ready to rent?

Total rent should be $800-900/month.After inspection major issues we found were:-gutters/downs need replaced, drainage run away from home (water in basement)-chimney needs tuck point at minimum, bricks falling off-mold growing in basement (big chunks of white growth along all wood)-cosmetic work about $2k to upper unitSeller wanted $14k, we offered $10k due to the amount of work we need to put in.

Having a Realtor in the family definitely gives you a leg up.I'd recommend making a weekend sport of going to as many vacant properties as you can. 

Hi BP community,My wife and I just purchased a fixer upper in Marin County, CA.

@Mike Kostner - Upper Vailsburg section of Newark

I bought a multifamily home in Chicago about 6 months ago, and I originally planned to flip it/wholesale it for a small profit. However, all I can seem to get are insultingly low offers since the home needs work (It's...

Sometimes they write their cash offers directly with the listing agent to try to get a (perceived) leg up.