You should only have 5-10 units in turnover at a time with a portfolio that large so any utility expense outside of those properties should raise a red flag. 

And if they won’t release them until under contract then it’s a major red flag.

But you still need to fix the root cause of why it is in the attic in the first place.

Hi all,So I recently found a a duplex that i want to buy. I have been emailing back and forth with an agent and I received this email  and now I am confused as to why the tenants are being difficult. I suspect it migh...

All sorts of red flags came up from scam to not worth it to it just being another sales pitch.I had already given them my CC info and I knew if that payment went through the next day I’d never see that money again.

Any tree(roots) in the path of sewer line?

Warning:  If they are self employed (RED FLAG)  they will likely need a MIN on 10% down and need a Stated Income ALT type programIf they are strong, good credit borrowers, hold a 15%ltv seller held purchase 2nd, this way they can look the best financing terms and eliminate the PMI.Likely the 1st mtg lender will want you, the seller holding the 2nd, to hold the purchase money 2nd mtg with a MAX  5yr Balloon or longer

Or diversify and invest outside real estate to increase returnes.I think it depends on where the asset is located IE here in Portland a red hot market and historically solid ( at least sinc e1992) or take the 50k and invest in the hood somewhere in the mid west.. me i would recast the mortgage.or take the 50k and invest in a reit or syndication deal etc.. and diversify or buy a performing NOTE that is solid and make 8 to 10% on that.then the thought is if you buy a rental do you want to do that for long term as this is work.

I'm concerned that it might be tree roots growing into the pipe.

I would invest in other "red" states that are more landlord friendly, as CA is one of the least landlord friendly states so it could take anywhere from 4-6 months to evict a non-paying tenant.