@Jennifer Marshall I know you are down in the San Marcos/Austin/San Antonio area but in DFW you can get the lower end (read as less desirable colors) granite at about $28/sq ft installed.

We also have a pretty steady economy and a desirable downtown  area!

However, my original desire to achieve financial freedom has just became stronger.

Since 3 bed/2baths are the most desirable among buyers, I have hired a contractor to turn the bonus space on the bottom level of my home to a 3rd bedroom (an option offered by the builder, but I didn't need it at the time).

I have a contact who can work with you to get you the money you need if that's a desire. 

It was in a very desirable area, so the market supported it's improvement more than the cost of the actual improvement.

If you hit you’re desired cap rate or ROI at 80% occupancy, anything a voice that is just icing on the cake.

I don't think you can fix thisPlease note that the Auction site counter bids themselves on behalf of the owner to bring price closer to reserve.I am sometime bid on a property for 2-3 months until price is within my desirable rangeDon't buy a bad deal just because you cant a good deal

We do have a mortgage so insurance money goes to the lender which then does inspections to release the money.If it's still a desirable area it will still rent post flood.

I'm sure it is no surprise or secret that Texas is a very hot and desirable real estate market.