Because of several Illinois Supreme Court decisions prohibiting pension and retiree healthcare "reform" (cuts), the day of reckoning on the massive pension debt is about to hit Chicago, Cook County, Illinois and many more units of local government.What's your take on Detroit and Chicago? 

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

There is a massive dehumidifier that effectively keeps the dampest part of the home (the 1926 era basement) at 50% humidity or less.

While he continued to spend every dime he could find, I found ways to beg and borrow (not steal) money for repairs and upgrades until we finally had a house that was only slightly crappier than everything else on the block.With the inevitable divorce several years later, I found myself massively in debt with an ex-husband refusing to honor any of it, but a house worth almost twice what we paid for it.  

If the below links do not answer them, then, please revisit and post the questions.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of book recommendations.The book link below will get you started.http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

What's the downside to buying the building, and renting to students compared to a massive conversion product to sell units individually to people likely to rent them?

It's good to see that you have a strategic plan and willing to give up your evenings and weekends in an effort to achieve your goals.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

Taking action is massively important, but being strategic is equally important. 

Nor do I want to go looking it a Memphis warzone or dicey parts of Toledo to buy up $35K properties for massive cash-flow.  

Also I've been looking for smallish wholesale deals from other wholesalers, but they're all well over 80% after repair costs, and considering my obligation to child support an maintenance, I think my inexperience is a massive disadvantage and risk, both for finding hard money or getting a funding partner.