I hand-picked and researched hundreds of people, houses, and neighborhoods from my county's pre-foreclosure lists/driving for dollars and then mailed to them.

It's pretty darn old (built in 1890) and needs some work (the house is in great shape from a structural stand point) but needs a new roof, external paint job and a minor interior renovation in the 3rd and 2nd floor units. 

Also whether there are other external factors that come into play. 

Most likely investors have some sort of connection with somebody to get "first hand picks"

Not only are the visual externals shot.

The ultimate choice is repipe externally.....Redo the floor etc.

Balance paid in full with internal or external refinancing or B.)

Here were some of my mistakes / lack of planning: -Replace all windows (13) (5 day delay)-Add a full bath in the master (4 day delay)-Bees in an external wall :-\ (1 day delay) removed for free!

Home sales here are consistent over the last 15 years  regardless of external forces.

That works better because it makes them feel their property is special and hand picked (which is true).