My dad broke up the concrete in just a few locations so water could seep through and drain into the soil, then filled the pool with the cheapest stone and clean soil locally available, then planted grass.

I'm originally from Maryland (close to DC) and currently live here but willing to move to be local to Norfolk/Hampton Roads if necessary.

I'm torn about investing local or going oos.

There are many different successful strategies depending on your cash, borrowing ability, rehab skills, time, local contacts, or lack of any or all of them.

Diversification of your portfolio, both geographically and by property type, can spread risk and mitigate the impact of localized economic conditions.

Here (Louisiana), I have intervened in these situations and made the repairs needed to satisfy the local municipality.

As a local, you could just keep our sleepy gold mine off the front page that would be great haha.

Already connected with the SWFL REIA, any input on the better local REIAs? 

They may charge based on volume or weight.Local Waste Management: Check if your local waste management authority offers bulk item pickup or special services for construction debris.Let me know if you have any other questions.

This website has several of both as members you may wish to contact any of them or someone that you know locally.