One of the key elements of real estate investment, is the process of finding deals.

The Grotes do a good job: https://www.ibuyaustinhouses.com/So do signature home buyers: http://www.signaturehomebuyers.com/sell-a-home/ The website is a formula that has to be assembled...there are a million of these sites out there...you just have to get firm on the elements you want to incorporate.

Tenant, one week later: "It was the plug and the heating element.

@Garreton SmithHi Garreton,Walking distance services and stores the intended residents will like.Such as certain fast foods, liquor stores, grocery store, convenience stores, medical services, nothing too upscale/unaffordable.Good Lighting at night on the street vs. where the street lights get shot out by the local criminal element so they can sell drugs in darkness.Good Luck! 

Thats a serious issue and you should contact an environmental remediation company.

My understanding Is that a CFD obligates the Vendor to cause to transfer title to the Vendee upon satisfaction of all elements of the agreement.The obligation rests upon the Vendor, or in this case, the surviving spouse of Vendor. 

So from Michael and Mark's replies, am I correct in saying that rehabbing is a required element for refinancing to benefit you at all?

I have many questions but I want to figure out what some key elements to a successful vacation rental are.I am also considering potentially moving there and buying a duplex vacation rental or something similar so that I can live in one part and rent out the other.  

Buildings feature design-forward finishes and architectural elements, and a custom, curated playlist that changes monthly.

You need to have a sufficient protective structure to keep it animal  free and there are other elements to keeping water secure on an ongoing basis.