I've done this on rental properties and got the line of credit in a week.

SI is pretty cheap compared to brooklyn or Manhattan, so many people are willing to trade longer commutes for less rent ie 3k/month rent for small 1 bed 1bath in Manhattan to 1k/month similar size apartment in SI.

I believe the brrrr strategy will cause a lot of people to go bankrupt and if you remain debt free, you'll be in line at the courthouse to purchase :) I can get a loan without refinancing my current properties and you can too.

It now seems that connecting to city water will be too expensive (main line is across a busy road).  

Does anyone have any experience with something along these lines?

I found a nice duplex for 120000, good location.one side is 2 bed 1 bath, other is 1 bed 1 bath.

I think it was caused by some run-off issues with water.The bottom line is I need to get it fixed.  

That's in line with what the market's paying.Is it a good way to invest YOUR money?  

(If not, there are floor-specific reglazing options.)Replace the vanity with a CLEAN-LINED contemporary white cabinet, top, sink, faucet, and hardware. 

VERY unlikely,, sounds like a mutiny,,they are testing the your waters and your the SHARK,, so get them back in line..