I know that there are some definite economic struggles in the area, but when looking at rental property investment, we preach: consistent and reliable return in safe neighborhoods that provide capital preservation.

Hello everyone,I was hoping some members could direct me in the way of finding a reliable affordable General Contractor in the metro MA area.  

Any reliable references would be great!

Assuming your rehab costs are correct and ARV is based on reliable and pertinent comps,So for your deal, taking the 70% of ARV of 205,000= 143,500- 17,000 = $126,500 (Your maximum asking price)Again you know your market better, and should know what % of ARV investors are looking for in your area.

Out of state investing can be very successful as long as you have a good reliable contact or team in place. 

It's just simpler to pay for it from a reliable source.-- Trevor

In other instances it is best to mix up three methods and compare the prices thereof.As a newbie investor I have begun to use Zillow, but it doesn't seem to be reliable. 

Unsure how quickly contractors could rehab the place without knowing the full extent of the damages, but taking how small the house is into account it should be doable in 3-4 months (assuming the contractors are reliable, of course.)This is all still very hypothetical because I have yet to track down the nephew again so I don't even know if he'd be willing to sell for cheap.

Most of the posts here are asking where to find contractors, vet them, or referrals, personally I think by giving these files to them but using them carefully will help you vet if they are flaky or not, companies or GCs that know how to fill these and can comply to this will be a bit pricey, but I am 90% sure that they are of medium caliber and will be reliable than your "2 guys with tools".Files Uploaded:CKCC Daily Sign In Sheet - MOST IMPORTANT DURING A FLIP CKCC Project Budget Sample CKCC TEMPLATE Payment Application Sample CKCC Invoice CKCC Conditional Waiver and Release on Final PaymentCKCC Conditional Waiver and Release on Progress Payment CKCC Unconditional Waiver and Release on Final Payment CKCC Unconditional Waiver and Release on Progress Payment CKCC Residential Improvement Contract - Rehab Contract CKCC Residential Time and Material Contract Notices After Contract Signing CKCC Certificate of Completion CKCC Quote Request Form CKCC Purchase Order FormGood luck and happy hunting!

There are many determining factors and indicators in this market that will allow you to narrow down a solid price point that is reliable based on market activity - I do it every day for investors, investment companies, and lenders throughout the country that need Metro Atlanta home assessments.