Get crystal clear on how you can add value to the lives of others (and it doesn't always have to be money). 

So, absent a true crystal ball, what is a PRUDENT real estate investor to do in this potentially volatile and downward environment? 

I do not claim I am an expert but I do not think anybody has a crystal ball as to what the market is going to do in the next few years so I do not like to account for appreciation when I do not know if it will ever come.

If you decide to stay with the company maybe ask now if you can add a maintenance billing clause to your agreement and everyone initial and spell out any other clauses you wish so everyone is crystal clear on your expectations. 

Give Crystal a call at (585)355-3911  she has helped a few of my clients and they are very happy with her 

I don't have a crystal ball, and its probably unwise to speculate on rates, but I don't see them spiking enough to kill values on assets considered to be affordable housing like Class B, value add apts, etc.

The condo is in northern Virginia, 6 miles from where the new Amazon headquarters will be in Crystal City, and 5 miles from where the new Virginia Tech campus will be.  

Long story short, make sure the goal of the project is crystal clear and you have a good idea of where you will end up.

@Crystal TynanYou would need to take it up with the lead broker.

House in Arlington, VA...not far from Crystal City (amAzOn) 2nd smallest house on the block, 3br, 2ba Worth ~$700k (most houses on block ~$900k)1st smallest house on block next door...worth ~$680kSo, to own both properties:Spend: ~$680k+ Total Value: ~$1.38mPLANAttempt to buy neighbors house.Demolish both houses and build a 4 unit townhome (see pic for example).3 others to rent, 1 for familyQUESTIONSBuild Costs - Anyone have insights into building costs for a 4 unit townhome building in Arlington?