This is where everyone started.Residential investing is very forgiving by nature, you have to try hard to really screw it up.

Naturally I asked "how do I find a reliable wholesaler?

If not, who do you believe the natural buyer is and why do you believe they will pay retail when they can replicate what you accomplished with any number of available properties on the market at any given time?

Quote from @Andrew Betts: Hi Michael - We own and manage homes in Solara, I can recommend it for a strong ROI, and there is full access to the clubhouse, and better quality food and drinks there, than at other resorts. 

THEY ARE STEALING FROM YOU (remember your remark about him not even getting a fast food/entry level job? 

That's just the nature of this business. 

After some research online, I am reading that the cost per square foot on a gut renovation of this nature in Stamford CT is anywhere from $150-$350, which is ultimately not very helpful, because at $150 per sq ft, this is a very appealing project with a total profit of ~$175K (46% ROI) and at $350 per sq ft, it very much isn't, because it would be a net loss of 83K (haha).QUESTIONS:What can I do refine my estimate a bit given that I am not allowed to a formal inspection on the property? 

Some people are sending supplies (clothes, other needed items like school supplies, food for humans and pets, etc). 

Food For thought. 

If it was due to a natural disaster they cannot raise your rates.