I think the only real deals are when you can get them directly from the bank but you've got to have very deep pockets and buy in bulk.Also, the BPO is KEY!

Lot's of interesting info here, I wish I could use some of it now but in a deep well so asking if anyone might be able to offer some thought.Situation: We bought a property 18 months ago thinking we would be staying at this location for next 10 years, until my wife retired.

Michael & Andy & JohnThanks for the valuable insights.In order to buy far away from where you live i.e. in my case PA or deep down in South Jersey may be better bets.

Pressed piles cost about 200-300 each depending on how deep they need to go (total foundtion repair likely about $10,000 for a 1,200 SF structure).

We dug in deep and found a second buyer just in time.

Maybe I'll offer huge price discounts soon and if someone bites I'll be good and if not I can wait until the deep of Minnesota winter.Chris-Thanks.

Kyle it's an easy decision.It's like a custom house where you have to find that ONE buyer to love it versus a neutral house that appeals to the masses.If it's a deep blue it's worth it to buy some primer first so you don't have to put on 4 coats of paint to cover it.To paint the kitchen you might have 50 to 60 bucks in materials if you do yourself.You will get that back alone with the first months rent payment.My experience is tenants will take an off color but then they want a discount for it.My apartments are 1,200 sq ft units.I get 5 gallons of Home Depot paint for 53.00.

My name is Ryan Young and I am a licensed Realtor® in San Antonio, TX. I signed up for BP back in September and have really just been absorbing all the great knowledge and advice located in the forums and blogs since ...

Unless you have deep pockets and need a tax write-off for the year - run on to the next deal.

Myself and my designer are both basically house-nerds with a deep appreciation for space and architecture.