I invest and help others invest in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and know a couple neighborhoods where the tax assessed value is lower than other neighborhoods (same house), but just have a poor stigma/border thriving neighborhoods, so the spill over is and will continue to push into these neighborhoods.#4 You can take this questions 2 ways. 

Consult with a mortgage broker to assess your specific financial situation and find the most suitable loan option.Since you have $50,000 in equity in your current residence, refinancing could be a way to access this equity and use it as a down payment for the new duplex.

Hey @Jeramey Rogers, what does the special assessment cover?

Sales price: $900,000Seller finance: $400,000 / 2 year ballon / 7% interest rate / interest only monthly payment: $2,333 / no pre-payment feeEstimated monthly income: $9,300 / Annual: $111,600Electric separated - water $450 per monthProperty taxes: $16,700 (with property value assessed)Property Insurance: $6,300Renovation Repairs $150,000I anticipate the Re-fi appraisal to come in at a conservative $1,150,000. 

They typically do not charge to assess the property since they know they will get the job when we close. 

This insures over the standard exceptions which relate to parties in possession, unrecorded easements, survey matters, unrecorded mechanics’ liens, gap period (period between the effective date and time of commitment to the date and time the deed is recorded) and unpaid taxes, assessments and unredeemed tax sales prior to the year of closing.

Rapidly escalating HOA fees, special assessments, and large insurance premium increases may contribute to substantial drop in affordability and impact valuations.

I was close to trying but after reading the assessments, getting the overhyped relentless phone calls from "Junior" and the absence of real credible deals / stories has solidified my resolve against this. 

For older demographics, consider the availability of medical centers, entertainment, and restaurants.Buildings/Permits: Assess the city's growth compared to previous years.Determine if the city can accommodate future supply.Government Regulations: Examine the city's efforts and the type of businesses they are targeting.

It's common to see late fees assessed on the third or fifth day.