I would keep the brokerage account and focus on the tried-and-true practice of saving up for a new investment.

Since she was a first time homebuyer we were able to save her 1% off her interest rate!

As far as whether to approach them with or without an agent - approaching them directly without an agent can save the seller probably 2.5-3% of fees, which give you some room to negotiate on the price, but you need to be confident that you are capable of evaluating the property value, estimating on the amount of work that is needed, knowing how to negotiate/ structure the deal, and navigating the closing process.

For lenders, I have access to private money lenders or if you want to go the traditional route, I recommend checking out Coast to Coast - Jeff Weller. 

I wanted a house for myself to live in and I had been living with parents for two years to save money.

Phoenix contains a rare combination of elements that have created an outstanding market for distressed property investments, including the following:Cost Savings: Distressed properties are sold below their market value and enable investors to take hold of properties at a trifle compared to traditionally listed properties.Strong Market Fundamentals: Being among the fastest-growing cities in the country, Phoenix ensures a high demand in housing and rentals, hence good potential for resale or income from rentals.Value Creation Opportunities: Most distressed properties need renovations; thus, such situations present opportunities for investors to increase equity by adding value.Population and Economic Growth: Phoenix remains among those cities in the country which are attracting more and more residents and business; therefore, this presents good, long-term appreciation possibilities of property appreciation and income creation.Challenges to ConsiderWhile the rewards can be great, distressed property investment is not without its challenges.

Instead of shelling out $60K for a $250K deal, maybe some of you can help me figure out (or give referrals) to title companies, etc, or give overall advice how to save me money from this enormous financial endeavor (closing the deal).Thanks!

I poured my life saving into it and make it a duplex.

When I inquired about it, plumber said lining, it is usually not prefect since this is PVC breakage not just pipe cracks and the cost saving is not significant enough and maybe headache down the road.I will try to get more quotes and maybe a company that specializes in pipe lining options.I was told foundation work / under slab pipe repair is common in the Dallas TX area due to soil type.

My question is, do I just not touch the first property, use the cash flow to reinvest and pay down the mortgage or save up for a downpayment down the road OR do I pull cash out of the first property to buy the next property?