Just assuming rents wouldn't be sky high with reliable cash flow. :)

Hi everyone. We're looking at a property we're thinking about buying that is located in a Flood Hazard area (as designated by FEMA). However the owner of the house next door was able to get a flood elevation certif...

Problem we have here is that there are so many people that bid on these that there isn't enough spread for us to make these a reliable option for us.

Finding good, reliable contractors was difficult, but the good news is they all know each other, so once you find a couple that you know do quality work, show up on time, finish the job, and have competitive prices, they can point you to other people they have worked with in the past.

Broker Price Opinions are fairly popular, though their reliability varies based on the experience, education and talent of the broker as well as how closely sales comps to the subject property exist.

There are too many variables to determine any reliable statistical data on the matter.

Our tenants don't have bank accounts or reliable transportation and we'd rather just get it ourselves than wait for mail delays or other excuses.

Shoe leather and red knuckles, the most reliable way to maket any consumer product, from toothbrushes to houses.

So, the question is...how do I "know" that I will be getting good, reliable and honest contractors?

I would make sure your cash flow will be reliable enough in the future to support holding a rental forever.In my market, at that price, I'd be satisfied with a 1+% rent-to-price ratio, assuming that key infrastructure (roof, structure, HVAC, etc) was on the front end of its life.I'm about to send over an offer of $57,500 on a $750/mo property.