*Local Eyes – By collaborating with experienced realtors, contractors, and inspectors, you can source hidden gems and dodge expensive mistakesThe Renovation ProcessThe secret to fix-and-flip success lies in renovations that help maximize the value of the home without breaking the bank.

I am under contract on a property that looks like it will not close.When I got the 3 fireplaces inspected, it was only a few hundred dollars extra to chimney sweep them at the time of inspection so we paid to get them swept. 

Ensure you account for expenses like maintenance, vacancy, or capital expenditures.

In the next 5-10 years, I plan to leave my current industry and transition to real estate full-time, so I’m especially interested in how this could impact that goal.Current FinancialsRoth 401(k) Balance: $105KContributions: $79KEarnings: $23.5KSalary: $109KContributing 6% annually ($545/month), with a 100% match for the first 3%Investment Growth Assumption: 8% per yearCurrent Rental Cash Flow (Pure Profit After All Expenses): $7,500/month (9 units)Potential New Property Cash Flow (Pure Profit After All Expenses): $1,300/monthCurrent Real Estate Portfolio Value: $1.4MAfter New Property: $1.7MWithdrawal Breakdown ($60K)Tax-Free Contributions: $45KTaxed Earnings: $13.4KWhy Only $13.4K Is Taxed and PenalizedMy Roth 401(k) balance is made up of:Total Balance: $105KContributions: $79K (75.24% of total)Earnings: $23.5K (22.38% of total)When withdrawing, the money comes out proportionally from contributions and earnings.

I haven't bought a lot at auction but the best deal I got at one was:Through the fog of memory (don't feel like looking up the exact amounts), in late 2021, I paid around 140k for a 4 bedroom single family detached property.

Quote from @Hanna Brown: @Jay Hinrichs If the bidder at the auction pays cash for keys to get the homeowner out, does the person redeeming from the owner position (exercising rights of redemption w/in 180 days) have to reimburse them for those costs they paid to get the homeowner out? 

I've paid for a handful of programs over the years from cheap to expensive and narrow-focused to broad-based. 

Whether interest accrues or is paid immediately, it is the same amount of expense and no effect on PROFITABILITY.  

Quote from @Neil Quinlan: Thank you and yes I am vested with my department thankfully and have 15 years until medical is paid.

I get that having a paid off property is very comforting, but to me it's not the best move if you're trying to grow. 20% down and 3% annual appreciation means you're making a 15% return on your downpayment.