I too live in Marin, and feel it is a solid long term market for apprecaition, and utilizing the power of principle reduction.When it comes to refinancing, figure out what the loan costs will be, then divide that buy the monthly savings with the new loan in order to determine how long you have to maintain that loan to break even. 

I would love to hear a story of someone where they explain how insurance has helped them with their property.I am getting into out of state real estate investing this month and am curious to hear other perspectives.  

Please recommend a lawyer who works with fixed fee and does not charge for every min s/he talks to you. 

The second property will need 25k in repairs, and rent for 1350-1450 monthly.1.

.- Background: Took some real estate classes before but really a lot of self learning on creative financing - Current Goal:To close my first wholesale deal within the next few months by learning from seasoned investors and applying proven strategies.I'm here to absorb as much knowledge as possible, so if you have any tips or resources, I’m all ears!

So I figure, if it makes $400 more per month, I'm looking at 4 year payback on the renovations with the risk of some other repairs down the road, such as furnace.

I'll be bouncing back and forth between the two cities over the next four months before I move in order to get life set up and trying to learn the city... and hopefully find my next project. 

I bought a property that was on the market for 7 months and was nervous other investors saw something I didn’t.

The property is located near two colleges, so I’m focusing on student tenants and planning for 12-month lease terms.Do you have any tips or advice for renting by the room?

Hi @Andy S. 3x monthly rent for income has worked well.