It's not as hard as you may think if you meet the right people and do your homework.

I graduated from Yale in 1968 and then taught English and math for several years in New Haven.

Below is a screen shot of where you can find them....If my quick math is correct you will be able to pull out about $54k with a 75% cash out refinance, after deducting your suggested costs (check my math on BP calculator).  

I read a disturbing article in the New York Times about people buying properties from online auction sites in areas that they know nothing about without doing any homework.

If you ever need comps in Southern Cal, I would do it for you for free cause you be a Guru and all...............Thanks for the offer and the back handed slam.Note that you are not so good with the math given how you converted to pounds.

I did my homework (running the numbers, checking the local market, checking job and population growth, etc.) before making the purchase so I knew going in I had a great opportunity to make money and my downside risk was low because the market wasn’t likely to turn towards a recession.Take Away: Don’t play unless you are 100% focused. 

A lot of these professionals are horrible at math if you stroke their ego (doctor's notoriously).

Looks like I have some homework to do :-)  Thanks gents, and God Speed!

@Tim Boeving break it down side by side and do the math.

Consider doing a little more homework to make sure you are encompassing more than just what is required.