If we did add a surcharge to maintenance, it would be a distant third.Your paint example is laughable.

For the past two years I have read, researched, drove for dollars, assessed deals, looked at properties in my area as well as distant properties and I have yet to "pull the trigger".

Look for ads - We buy real estate...... whom do you see more often at a auctions - talk to real estate agents who deal with investors - who is their best client -You are looking for THE MAN - the person who is making things happen - this is the person you want to connect with.Don't over-look active investors on Bigger Pockets - it is OK to have a long distant Mentor as long as they are qualified - active in the market and can prove it.When you find THE MAN - the person who is making deals - bringing in $20,000 or much more a month - this is the person you want to FOLLOW ---So - how do you you worm yourself into his center of influence?

At some point in the distant future the statistics may trend toward ownership and less rentals, but last I knew the trend was heading the opposite way.  

More lists you can work: FSBO, expired listings, search classified ads for rentals with phone numbers from distant area codes.

We do not have a lot of money and definitely are pinching pennies all the time.We have a wedding coming up and closing on a house at the same time, as well as dealing with our current house’s issues.Some things may seem insurmountable but they are not, it is uncomfortable and you may go to bed worrying but most of the time I am excited.I am excited about expanding my future and the future of those around me.I feel like I have more control over where my life is heading and the financial stability for the future.I always felt uneasy throwing money in a distant account waiting until the twilight years of my life to get at it.

I think as an investor, one should make an offer that makes sense and looks profitable regardless of how close or how distant it may be from the seller asking price.If accepted good, if not move on to the next deal

Rehabbing DYI just may be a distant memory from now on.BTWThe wife does not read BP.

I have some friends from school who could be my feet on the ground and may be interested in being the property management part of the business, but I would still be able to get out to the area and get my feet on the ground as well.2) Go turn key on a “distant state” (5 hour plane ride) using a turn key company, coupled with property management, but their seems to be a discrepancy between appraised value and what the turn key companies need to get their profit, so appreciation on resale would be at risk3) Partner with a great property management company (although figuring out if the property management company is “great” is a whole other thing) and find a property on my own or link up with a BP wholesaler on a “distant state” property.

It's in a bubble right now, if you read (and believe) Harry Dent, he says Gold could be between $200-$400 in the not too distant future.