I've made it a habit to track Department of City Planning updates and zoning proposals because they often signal where the next hot areas will be.

Ideally, this would be someone with a strong reputation and a proven track record in full-scale renovations, along with in-depth knowledge of the Pittsburgh market.If you have any recommendations or advice on contractors who fit this description, I’d love to hear from you!

You are on the right track here!

Traditional banks sometimes balk at it because they see it as riskier, but local credit unions or regional banks tend to be more open to it, especially if you can show a solid plan for development or resale.

Tenants, "go into Holiday-mode" and start spending disposable income (and racking up their credit cards) on Thanksgiving feasts & trips, Xmas presents & trips, and finally NYE plans.3) Income Tax Refund checks start being received towards the end of February and corresponding, the rental market starts picking up again as tenants payoff their “Holiday Hangovers".4) Spring Fever starts, sometime in April-May, causing both sales & rental markets to start picking up.

I’m already doing all of that, which is why I didn’t want to get into more detail and everyone get side tracked from my specific question with the facts given.  

I’ll have $50K saved and $8,000 in credit lines. 

When you select the next tenant I would certainly ensure that you have your eyes on the applications that are coming in, and ask that you are involved in the decision making process. 3x income, clean credit and background checks should be a minimum for approval, even if it takes a month or so to find someone. 

You need to make sure these people are paying on time if not charging them fees, and getting them back on track.

Since lost job I am running into the issue with bills, but try to move fast to make sure nothing like my credit is mess up.