Tossed around quite a bit and it isn't what it once was, but the value is still very high based on past performance and brand recognition.

And/or are you willing to take the risk of being sued by the seller for not performing on a legal contract (and losing your earnest money)?

I created the following decision tree diagram to illustrate the decision process (click to enlarge).The above decision process is based on the property’s performance record, with the goal of achieving financial freedom in mind.Financial freedom is not just replacing your current income.

I would highly recommend you create a Market Report in PriceLabs to see how similar properties nearby are actually performing.

The contract must contain:the contractor’s name, address and telephone numberthe approximate start and completion date, including any contingencies that would change the completion datea description of the work to be performed and the materials to be provided to the consumer, including make; model number or any other identifying information; and the agreed-upon price for the work and materialsa notice advising you that you have three business days to cancel the contract, unless during an emergency you waive the right in writinga notice that all payments received by the contractor prior to completion of the contract work must be deposited in an escrow account

The math says to perform $500 sewer clearing each year instead of $5000 excavation, but the $5k bought peace of mind.

Note investing can be divided into performing vs non performing.  

Has this property been working for a while with a track record of income performance?

Ultimately it will depend on the property (banks perform stress test-debt ratio)-but I think 5 year term is what I found so far.

Immediately, I performed a Roth conversion.