Although, I do know some investors that can make it work, so if you decide to go out there get in touch with @Jake Leicht as he does a lot of investing in the area and perhaps guide you in the right direction and buy a deal from you.But honestly, Alameda and Contra Costa county right where you are both have 200-250+ Notice of Defaults (preforeclosures) EACH every month.

The larger ones cost a fraction more, but will be cheaper in the end as you don't need as many.

What are some costs associated with hooking up utilities and electrical to our modular and what should we be searching to get an idea of cost? A

For these reasons, we're focusing on short-term rentals in the Costa del Sol.Hope this helps.

I've had houses double in price, but the taxes haven't gone up at the same rate.Renos can cost a lot, but if in the long term, you can rent the house for more and have less turnover, you will recoup some of that money. 

100% a mistake, although some houses can be ugly, it sometimes doesn't cost as much as investors think to make a place look pretty.

I hear about these towns as being the Next thing growing. what do you think about " Bacalar, Puerto Escondido, Costa Careyes"....... is there others? 

Though, if the home needs a lot of work and you don't have the rehabbing experience - it may cost a lot of time and money. 

It is going to cost a bunch to separate the electric meters and make it two units.

If you truly need to refinance, you may want to look into a bridge cash out loan and have the permit cost as the budget + any other rehab you still may need to do to get this fully permitted.