I don't look at mutual funds as a vehicle to create wealth, but more of a place to KEEP existing wealth where you can get a modest return so your wealth doesn't get eroded by inflation over time.3.

Chris Mason  manufactures of Of these units by ALL means made multi family duplex units I have bought and installed many .. in Oakland no less.as long as they are affixed to a Permanent   foundation and removed from the motor vehicle registration they are considered stick built homes..

In any case, if you think it is a meth-lab the right thing to do is go ahead and have it inspected so you do not harm others or yourself. 

3) What vehicle would be my best option for this scenario?

@Sal H. we haven't gone ahead with anything yet.  

It seems like you are not willing to make any sacrifice to get ahead and that is why you will end up struggling.

Sounds like you have some skills putting you ahead of others just starting out.

You'll have to sift through plenty that don't have equity, but it isn't worth the time to try to figure out which those are ahead of time.

You can be ahead of the auction feeding frenzy curve if you reach out to them first.Drive for Dollars - you might be looking for FSBO signs. 

I  feel like its really easy to come out ahead year after year if that's really the case, since the house has some pretty good value.