It is my understanding that gifting a property does nothing to step up basis as the capital gains would follow the gift. 

My method has always been to call every listing that hit 90 days on market in areas that I want to buy.

Step 1: pull recent MLS comps within +/- 15% sq ft, within 1/2 mile or so, within 3-6 mos.

There are pot holes at every step form entitlement to permitting to the vertical and getting CO. 

It is very easy and doesn't have to be contentious. just follow the steps.

This depends on if you are using the Cash or Accrual method of accounting for tax purposes.

I’m excited to take my first steps into real estate investing and have decided to focus on Pittsburgh for my first property.I’d love to hear your thoughts on:*Neighborhoods or areas in Pittsburgh that are good for investment and typical price ranges I should expect.

No deal will ever feel perfect—it’s easy to overthink, but the best way to learn is by diving in and taking that first step!

You'll have better luck playing Lotto than getting into real estate thinking you're just smart enough to wing it on you own or following some idiotic step by step formula. 

It’s great that you’re taking the first step—that’s the most important part of the journey!