I came by the ARV by looking at Zillow for the value of similarly-equipped homes in the area, then derated the value by 2% as a fudge factor.

Plumbers have equipment that is much more heavy-duty than what we own ourselves and are experts in rooting out plumbing lines and ensuring drains flow freely.Electrician - While we do quite a bit of electrical work ourselves, it is important to have an electrician available for more complex work, such as upgrading an electrical box or replacing wiring.Carpet Sales and Installation - Every property we have ever owned has received new carpet at some point during our ownership. 

The option to buy a equipment that can yield a return, the option to buy rental property, the option for either myself or my wife to stay home with the kids, or even just the option to leave an abusive, negative work environment and not fear bill collectors.

I had a lot of issues with range and loss of connection with the Z-Wave equipment.

I hope that my readings at BiggerPockets equips me as much as possible for the RE world.

We have been incorporating Passivhaus/EnerPHit ideas and practices into our retrofits as our knowledge increases; materials and equipment becomes available (cost effectively) here in North America; and the mindset, knowledge and skills of our trades improve with respect to energy efficiency.If the cost is equal or less than renovating a house to current code standards, then it would follow that renting that house would provide a better return on investment.

Perhaps some one equipped to evaluate the level of a slab foundation?

Tell them you're finishing school to build your foundation so you'll be a better equipped investor and professional.  

Yes, seller financing is great but most newbies are not equipped to find those types of deals.  

I have been to mechanics school,Welding school,cut meat for 35 years, ran heavy equipment, been an over the road truck driver and owned a butcher shop.