If you thinking there is some "giant" "fat" to cut out of Real Estate transactions I'm sorry it just is not true.

Hey @Monish Anand - Long distance real estate investing can for sure be challenging, but also forces you to dial in your systems or fail!

Exactly what i was looking for The other commentators have added a lot of good info and value - I would chime in though one thing to look at closely is the property type - is it a true "log cabin" or more of a single family residence with "Cabin style" finishings?  

Quote from @Devin James: True, but it's foolish to invest without a basic understanding of how to purchase and manage the investment.

This is true, and there are always opportunities in the market.

Quote from @Scott Tennell: What creative financing strategies have you found to be the most effective in today's real estate market, especially in terms of working with sellers or investors in challenging conditions?

In the years that I've represented primarily BUYERS, I find that there has been challenges navigating transactions where the seller is a For-Sale-By-Owner (FSBO) AND inexperienced in handling a real estate transaction.

With those numbers the refi is going to be good on the side of having some equity, the challenge like I mentioned is the Apprasier coming in and giving a number that may not support getting all your money out.

I am in the Virgin Islands, also challenging to find lenders.  

Well, I keep hearing "if you find a good deal, the money will come"....like it falls from the sky or something...lol #4 Is true.