I bet less than 10 houses in a mile radius has central. http://www.sears.com/search=heating%20and%20coolin...

So you come across potential flippers/buyers all the time I bet?

Your best bet is to call local property management companies (your competition) and ask what they charge.

I'm probably your best bet for under $30k performing notes, but I'm not typically lending in Arizona.  

I think your best bet is to JV it with a contractor that can do the needed work (providing the materials and labor) and then get a renter in their as fast as possible and stabilize the asset. 

Your best bet right now it to stop researching and start taking a few actions to get yourself surrounded by smart mentors or experienced investors who are willing to be a sounding board as you get started.  

The other flipping shows seem to treat their laborers and contractors much more appropriately (mostly good unless the contractor has done a poor job).

My Cash Flow and income source eyes were open with Rich Dad Poor Dad in 2007.  

Their 3 office addresses are easily "findable"--- Should I send my "yellow letter" to their offices or is that in poor taste??

My general long-term goal is financial freedom, so that I can spend more time with family and enjoy living while I can.Some books I've read that have gotten me started on this journey: Rich Dad Poor Dad, The 4-Hour Work Week, Building Wealth One House at a Time, and The Book on Rental Property Investing (which is what brought me to BiggerPockets!)