Again, a lender must be able to speak to these options in order to guide the client and even measure out how to approach their needs and concerns appropriately. 

I'm happy to help guide you if you are interested in Columbia SC or surrounding areas.  

That will be your decision guide.

Whatever you decide please take a trip to see the house and drive the neighborhood before you purchase.

Consider getting a good team together that can guide you on a market that you can play in with the cash you have(Not California).

However, every time a showing is scheduled the place is so messy that it is impossible to get inside without tripping or potential injury.

For your trip next week I would try to meet with a few well recommended and qualified real estate agents to get their estimates on the homes current as is value.

Network and try to find a mentor in these groups or wherever you can to help guide you through this industry.

DonAnswer questions like "what state should I invest in" or "what do I do with a tenant not paying" or my favorite "how do I transfer my home into a llc" which literally has been asked more times than a school bus of 10,000 kids on a trip asking "are we there yet". 

I’ve spent $10k to fix issues like new HVAC and fridge.She’s also been complaining about uneven floors in the house, which she says are a tripping and splinter hazard.