By the time you want to rest on your laurels, it would be good to have your loans not only paid off, but are also ahead of your future capex, meaning all major things already upgraded.

Do you plan to obtain all necessary permits and licenses for future work that’s required?

I'm thankful that my parents were able to live the American dream before my father passed away, and that my mother has a secure financial future during her remaining years.Its difficult to get ahead even if you can speak English and are educated but how much more so if you are a poor immigrant.

Unless your rental income outpaces inflation, you won't be able to pay inflated future prices and you'll soon have to return to work.

And, just like dating people, even if you both WANT to get married, that doesn't mean the first person you date is going to be your future spouse.

I have begun engaging with several agents on available properties, while at the same time, trying to put the structure in place to support my future acquisition. 

Noted for future posts, though again my intent was to help investors understand that making these upgrades can be incredibly beneficial and isn't something most people are looking at. 

This trend of rising rents is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.

Yes, you owe $151k, but if a cash buyer sees the value, you could minimize your losses.Legal Options: I get that hiring a lawyer isn’t feasible right now, but I would still document everything (contracts, payments, correspondence) in case you’re able to pursue the contractor legally in the future.

I know in the future I should be mailing to get and yield the most leads possible.