For commercial retail, we are interested in it, but we read an article that said you're basically paying double per square foot than regular market value, and it's more an investment in the company and good faith that they will continue to stay in business in that location.

Look for telltale white spots, efflorescence on the lower part of the basement walls that commonly indicate the regular intrusion of water.

The answers to those questions may affect whether it's more favorable to keep it (so you can RAISE rents regularly, and reap the benefit of future capital gains), or owner-finance it to another Buyer (thus, why not demand a sufficiently high down payment so that you can invest in ANOTHER?

I listened to the podcast she referenced and now realize that I should be listening regularly.

Hi All,Like many others, I have been doing research preparing to begin my first REI with a SFH in Memphis, TN (because properties here on Maui are too expensive for regular guys with regular salaries like me!)

Also need to find a landscaper who can do snow removal and regular lawn cutting.

Nothing too unique, just regular multi family value add investing.  

Some consumer sites have better search functions and are certainly improving their services on a regular bases.It all depends on what you are looking for.

Lenders are audited on a regular basis, and it's millions of dollars in fines if a lender turns appraisal fees into a profit center. 

To answer your question, I plan to make RE investing a part of my current portfolio for diversification purposes (other than my primary residence of course) and I'd ultimately like this to be a replacement an alternative to my regular work.