If you start seeing people feed themselves while you are only left with some scraps, it's easy to start developing an iron-clad way of doing things. 

Vacancy rates will rise quickly.Maybe you could try an Iron A/C cage on the outside and a separate security deposit (maybe around $300 or so) to cover the A/C.The cages are ugly, but in many window A/C communities the residents understand that their neighbors (and their neighbors visitors) may be, shall we say sometimes "theft prone", and the bars can be explained as break in deterrents to keep their belongings safe.They also blend in better in a light color vs. black.If a prospect balks at the $300 and you want them, you could always offer to wrap it into the first 10 month of payments.

(Ironic given the number of security breaches at the IRS, but that's another story.)

Also make sure you have your own plan ironed out so you can help explain to everyone what exactly you're looking for.

Ironically MFH in abilene are more then in DFW for whatever reason..

I feel I have a good background professionally (analyst at institutional multifamily investing firm) to be getting into this kind of thing, but there are still many differences to be realized and ironed out.  

The ironic thing is I also got a great deal this week for being quick in getting the deal.

Mastermind groups are built on the idea that we're a product of three things: the people we associate with, the books we read, & the media we listen to.If you're a member of a mastermind group you should be contributing as many positive ideas as you're receiving.The idea of mastermind groups were conceived in Think & Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill which I ironically just wrote a blog post about on my biggerpockets blog.Good luck!

The only time I have ever even discussed paying a contractor for "bids" was when I had a GC who offered to walk through my wholesale deals and help me iron out a rehab estimate. 

I am inro working out (when I find the time) and collecting old iron weights and dumbbells (YORK, JACKSON, ETC).My goal is to be independant and wealthy.