For investors in today's market, the competition for properties with healthy cash flow is intense.

I am 35 years old (today) and my wife and I have two kids.  

Nothing to add to the education piece but I'll definitely stay engaged with this conversation.

I will begin wholesaling very soon and as I begin my wholesaling education, I do have a question for you all.In order to be a great wholesaler, one must understand the wants and needs of end buyers, correct?

You're accelerating your education by constantly putting yourself in position to talk to people with problems, much faster, and on a much more consistent basis.  

Earlier today, I stopped by my properties to install faucet covers to protect from freeze.

I found this on the MLS today. it looks like it has a lot of potential but my main concern is that it was built is 1954.

Just getting educated about the process of buying an "assignable" tax certificate in Illinois and getting a tax deed if the buyer does not redeem.

I was told today the home was leased for one year and forms would be sent to me.All I received was copy of the one year lease agreement and addendums.   

If I pulled $25K out with this REFi, I'd be coming out of pocket ($650) for the appraisal and our new payment would be approx $1500 (which is good becuase I think this house would rent for this in todays market and I wouldn't have to come out of pocket on monthly mortgage payment if occupied).