Somehow I knew this was going to involve someone with a shovel.

Tenant also has the responsibility of shoveling the outdoor steps and sidewalks.  

But it seems like every month something is going wrong with these properties and I'm having to shovel out more money.

Some wholesalers in FL are using 80%.

Certainly would recommend to include all approval contingencies needed to get a shovel in the ground. 

I'm looking forward to hearing more about how this story progresses.Once you have the property line marked you might want to have the police come by before you start cutting to "keep the peace"$900 is pricey they last one I did only cost $300.If you know approximately where the corners are, you should be able to find the metal markers with a metal detector if you could borrow or rent one.good advice most properties the old pin and be found with a metal detector and a shovel..   

I know a big part of real estate investment is being able to spot and analyze a deal and wanted to get feedback on my analysis of the following property.For context, I'm new to real estate investing and looking to connect with other Chicago investors but mostly looking for feedback on how this deal look and how my numbers look (Am i underestimating/overestimating, etc.)Property is a duplex (each 3 bed, 1 bath) in Little Village and listed for $259,900Down payment (FHA Loan @ 3.5%): $9,096Closing Costs + Repairs (4.5%) : $11,696Monthly Income: $1,350 per unit (so $2,700/month)Monthly Expenses: $2,431 (see below for details on expenses) Assuming 30yr mortgage at 3.8%, mortgage*: $1,168/month*Property taxes*: $280/month*PMI (FHA Loan): $184/monthInsurance*: $150/month*CapEx (5% of rents): $162/monthVacancy (5% of rents): $135/monthRepairs (7% of monthly rents): $189/monthUtilities (only water): $120/monthMaintenance (shoveling snow, lawn care, etc): $135/monthBased on these numbers my conclusion is that this wouldn't be a meh deal since cashflow is not the best.

If you are good with tools, a paint brush, a lawnmower, a broom, a shovel, etc...you have a lot you can offer to a REI mentor. 

Grab a shovel and propane torch to thaw the ground if necessary.

My brother and I have agreed that we need to figure out when and where real estate meet ups around our area (Plantation FL) are happening so that we can attended and connect with other investors, but I have not attended one yet.