The utility bills and the cell phone bill being delinquent is a major red flag for us when we are screening.

There are other rules and odd shaped lots have some rules that make it possible to build them in some cases, but those are the two main rules.For a house and an ADU, the lot has to be at least 5750 square feet, the ADU has to be in the back, and the ADU can either be no larger than 1100 sq. ft. or 15% of the lot size, whichever is smaller.It's worth noting that a house and ADU will likely sell better than a duplex.

Both are great resources and eye-opening.If you really want to invest in real estate, you can open a self-directed solo 401k and borrow (up to 50% of the plan value or $50,000, whichever is less), and invest in real estate.

Full Disclosure: I'm the founder of LeadPropellerIn order to help make a decision (whichever way you go, you won't really be wrong as both choices are great), I wanted to share more information about online strategy and what's most important. 

Most HML's stick to 65% of acquisition value or appraised value whichever is less.

@Karin DiMauroHere is where your 5k deposit came from:Buyer will receive a Special Warranty Deed or equivalent.No Buyer's Broker/Agent Commission offered.If you are the Winning Bidder, an Earnest Money Deposit of 5% of the total purchase price or $2,500 (whichever is greater) is required.A Buyer's Premium equal to 5% of the Winning Bid Amount or $2,500 (whichever is greater) will be added to all Winning Bid Amounts to determine the Total Purchase Price.Property is being offered as is, where is.It looks like a treasure trove if you're a contractor with a clue.

Whichever STR agency you are going to use study the laws and regulations, as well as taxes and fee's for AirBNB/VRBO or other.

Meanwhile, I say go eat the orange in whichever way you wanted to eat.

Yes a lot of people spend frivolously…but in this day and age and in our modern society, internet, a computer, and some type of cell phone (really a smart phone) are really becoming absolute necessities.  

For example,  if they receive SNAP (food stamp) benefit or even a free cell phone service,   that counts as income as well, but I believe that non-housing subsidies don't have to be counted 100% toward rent.