We plan to buy one with really good bones that we can update in order to raise the property value since houses in our area are moderately priced. 

With the more moderately priced properties ($1,000 - $10,000), you'll probably start seeing more resistance to this - which is certainly understandable.When sellers start saying no, there are a few ways it can be handled:1.

Disregard this thread, didn't think it would post twice me refreshing the page after editing moderators.

Continued, but moderating rent growth.

Most of the living frugally stuff in the book I was already doing and still am doing (just finished the book a week ago)  however, after reading the book I realized that I would have to work this whole year and save as much as I could to afford a down payment on a moderate duplex to begin house hacking. 

I can do some things (minor repairs-fixes), but would most like have a handy man do moderate ones.3.

Whenever there is high demand to buy and good inventory is a little low or even moderate.. that is a flipping market. 

Forum Moderators, can you guys please talk to Josh Dorkin and request this feature...

My husband and I have a moderate equity on our home. 

In that price range I would honestly probably look at Lawrence or similar areas with moderate crime and solid purchase to rent ratios.