I recently got in contract on a wholesale deal with a partner for a beautiful Victorian duplex in West Oakland, that I plan on buying 50/50 with another BP investor, where I am borrowing the majority of the capital at a tiered rate for the low-LTV and high-LTV portion.

As a complete newbie a couple years ago we bought a charming old Victorian converted into a triplex and by old I mean probably built in 1800's.

It focused on a group of people (tenants) who had been living as roommates in a large Victorian.

The only grower I know that rents lives in SF and pays $4K+ rent for his Victorian "mixed use" rental.

Rehab old victorian for a Bed and Breakfast focused on travelers with pets (dogs) in the pacific northwest (particularly Washington).

It's just over two gas meters and the 2 story deck are give aways for the duplex.The turret and Victorian features places this house around Grant Park or Inman Park.

Of course we all begin with grand ideas of making millions, retiring to a big house on the beach (or in my case, a Victorian mansion deep in the woods), and living the good life.

Searching through the MLS listings, my eye is constantly diverted away from searching for profitable properties to admire a Second Empire Victorian with a beautiful Mansard roof, a stately Greek Revival, or the sleek lines of a Mid Century Modern.

Still some beautiful old craftsman and victorian homes there that need love and have great bones at lower prices.

When I was a kid, there was a 2.5 story Victorian house across the street from us which began its life a mile away (on the top of a hill).