The city that I invest in is depressed and has been since we lost the steel mills.

Alright I admit it when I was In College I bypassed the coin op washing machines by putting the coins in a pair of pantyhose before putting them in the slots.

I really enjoy turning off my brain from time to time and pulling on some slots. lol

If most of them have updated kitchens with stone counters and stainless steel appliances and yours was last remodeled in the 70's, then you may want to remodel the kitchen.

The current tenant has mentioned that he would like to make the basement (which is exposed in back with just a steel door - no windows) livable space for himself.

I also looked at steel framed homes if you want to be a "builder type" These homes once erected on a site provide instant equity.As a rabid fan of HGTV I watched as a couple build a magnificent modular home right from the factory.

I dont want to steel it from him but I cant give him fair market value cause of all the work it needs.

I do have to say one thing about Sprint Broadband.Many new Laptops are no longer being made with a PC Card slot.

You could also look into the steel buildings, kind of like warehouse style - http://www.rhinobldg.com/steel-building-specials.htm I feel that far too many people do the 'mainstream' thing not because it makes them happy but because its what everyone tells them they should do.Just remember that what you want to do now may change as you get older.

Gorgeous tile, fresh hardwood, new cabinets, stainless steel appliances.