Both had tenants living in them and it was some of the most deplorable situations I have witnessed in almost 30 years of real estate.

. 🏠👍 100% agreed.I've witnessed way to many investors over the years getting caught with their pants down when using too much leverage.The real estate "guru" world is incentivized by selling more properties (Realtors earn commissions on every property sold) and "no money or low money" strategies (Easy way to flog books and seminars), etc...So leverage to the tilt they would say...The best deals are bought quickly and with cash.All good things take time and so does building a strong and sustainable real estate portfolio.Start slow and small and build the foundation of your portfolio with cash.This will minimize losses when vacancies occur and one hopefully won't have to put their hand too deep in their own pocket to cover expenses as they occur (Especially large expenses like mortgage costs).Once a solid foundation has been built and experience gained over a period of time of what the true income vs expenses will be, then look at using leverage.Also, all deals should be analyzed from a "devils advocate" standpoint and don't get too excited about it's initial prospects.If you think it won't happen to, I'm here to tell you that it will.This is coming from someone that has done hundreds of deals and has seen it all.Always protect the bottom line first and foremost.Much success

It's truly motivating to witness flips happening in the area and how properties can appreciate through strategic renovations.

I wasn't so blessed by the tech gods, but luckily I am also not influenced by affluence. 

Now depending on how financially blessed you are, you could potentially do this 4 times a year.

I saw on linked-in someone saying they witnessed a deal go down where the investor just charged his platinum card.

God Bless America mate.

I've witnessed decreased credit scores, rising credit balances, and stricter underwriter guidelines.

Wits Property Management takes a different approach.