I currently own a duplex in SE Michigan, with a lower 2 bedroom flat and an upper 1 bedroom flat.

I live in the area and have found it challenging to make the numbers work on a 2-4 flat. 

@Wilson Adams,Where a lot of newbies "fall flat" is on deal analysis.

Is it just flat annoying to look at a property without first knowing exactly how you'll execute the purchase?

We put an offer in on a 2-flat in Chicago and we requested a 3% closing cost credit, which was accepted.

How many agents succeed in a minimal service brokerage with flat fees and no training?  

I think that is what most new investors benefit from the most.That said - I like a flat rate coaching model - one fee that covers one year of coaching.  

Had it been plywood this would have been hard to do that type of damage.I am building cabinets for my kitchen now and I am using 3/4" prefinished uv maple plywood and I'm making poplar shaker style doors with mdf flat panels.

Being a flat-out newbie I know there's a lot I don't know and I'm hoping to learn a lot from my fellow BPers.  

I think even the original orange shag carpet was there, although it was matted, brown and laying quite flat by the time I bought it.