In reading about how Baltimore housing can vary by the block, I think I would prefer to stick to an area that I am familiar with for starting out. 

They are cheap, thin plastic that filter the light but don't totally block it.   

Every other house on the block was in foreclosure for similar reasons.

A local HML lender can give much better rates as they know the areas block by block.

Its not a great area overall, but this is a nice little neighborhood, blocks from a grocery store, clean and safe.I've basically be listening to every podcast all week, and podcast 61 has me a little gun-shy all of the sudden.  

It’s easier to click a mouse and make a change on paper now, than to spend sleepless nights worrying about how the hell you can change things later on.Hope this helps some more of us new kids on the block.

Don't let road blocks stop you from closing a deal!

I had success buying notes from local thrifts and credit unions.. however I walked in got an appointment with the manger or president and then presented my plan.some of htem were way cool I bought the note 2 weeks before the sale.. and I would either get cashed out by a 3p purchase at court house steps or end up with the asset either way I was happy.you can for sure buy notes in low value areas that have plethora of bad paper and dubious value RE.. but if your thinking WEST coast then I agree this horse left the barn long ago.unless your buying 100 million to billion dollar blocks.. however one off I don't see it ... only private lenders would do that..

Would like to rehab a block on an area in Baltimore with a group to turn it around.

He paid cash for these and is looking to get some of that back.He offered to sell me one of the homes.The good: I've managed the property for several years and know what it needs and what's been done...Takes in $699 with about $300 cashflow...Tenant has been there for 2 years and is about to re-sign 2 year lease, pays every month on time...Has a garage apartment that will take in about $400/mo...It's about 3 blocks away from my house.The bad: The garage apartment needs a considerable amount of work, which I was expecting...A couple of questions:My lender asked why get a loan if I can get pay cash?