If you are a licensed contractor for instance and capable of major remodeling projects as your trade, this would be considered adding value to the property and would risk IRS action.Sounds like "improving" or "upgrading" the place is not allowed.

When you can buy properties like this, you can get almost 100% of your money out of the property, convert the property into a long term rental loan, with a DSCR Loan (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) where we as the lender look at the property and if it cash flows, and that is expressed as a ratio, for instance if your Total Loan payment including Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance was $1000/mo, then you would need a rent of $1200/mo and you would have a 1.2 DSCR Ratio.Here is an example of a cheap duplex https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/732-Broad-St-Menasha-WI-5...

For instance I’m only 15 however my real estate journey is starting with my dads friend who is big in the business.

Cash flow-oriented investors would do well in this market, since Montgomery’s rent-to-price ratios are very favorable—for instance, we’re seeing $150,000 properties in B/B+ neighborhoods fetch monthly gross rents of $1,200 to $1,300.By the way, if you’re looking for financing, a debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) loan could be a good option for you since you’re an international investor.

In some instances there are alternatives to foreclosure.

A renovation loan for instance, you make draws on the loan making the balance higher.  

You should also invest in a professional real estate photographer and a lock box) You may just decide to go with an agent that can provide professional level photos and an amazing marketing package (including listing exposure in real estate magazines, etc) If you do go with an agent- make sure to ask for their marketing plan for the property as well as a record of their past sales, etc.

Your traditional bank in most instances is going to take the loan and resell it on the secondary market.For House Hacking, my favorite concept is  purchasing a duplex, triplex or quadplex, you accomplish 2 things in 1 step, you get a roof over your head, and at a minimum you get someone else to help pay for your mortgage, and when its time to move out, you already have your 1st investment property under your belt.

a loan that is used to buy your primary residence is a purchase money loan.. in this instance again as stated no judgment can be gotten against the original trustor.

On my new builds in Oregon that are in high demand.. buyers commish is going to be negotiated per deal.. for instance my last lot that will allow a knock out single level I am NOT offering any commission to the buyers agent I have a buyer for it.. their agent is going to list and sell their current home which is a 1.5.. and they will have to negotiate their fee with their buyer on my houses which is 850k..