if you do not send a security deposit statement within proper timeframe of tenant vacating (state specific) tenant can typically sue you for full deposit back, regardless of damages. in some states they can sue for triple the security deposit.

I once saw the state of Pennsylvania award triple damages to an investor who complained that a form D wasn't filed in the state.

I cannot hire a contractor for months, and again the cost would triple. 

I plan to obtain my share of "triple decker decadence" :)I'd like to get acquainted with anyone who can offer advice or interested in connecting with a new investor to the Worcester area, particularly a good local GC and Prop.

Let's assume it triples in value over 30 years, so at the end, I sell it for $200K.

But think of the opportunity cost here - rather than getting a 7% return (on average) on your Roth IRA, you can be doubling and tripling that money by investing in real estate.

If the answer is yes, then invest (after you triple check the amazing-ness of the deal).

I did accept the cash offer and ended up buying a house near me for the same price except I will be putting in about 10 k in repairs but the rental income will triple. 

I would guess that a claim of failure to use due care on the part of whomever handles the EMD (most likely the seller's agent) would have merit - and here, the plaintiff can be awarded double or triple damages.Here's a real estate related case in MA where consequential damages were awarded: http://caselaw.findlaw.com/ma-superior-court/15647...

Many people on BiggerPockets that I speak to make double or triple my Family combined W2 earnings.