I've been looking at a lot of multi family buildings here in NH, and since many of them are older homes that have been converted into apartments (2-4 units), many of which have common heating systems, so the rent includes heat.With a background in (commercial) energy management and utility billing systems, these seem like they can be good opportunities for me to go in, lower rent and recover utility costs (subject to existing leases of course).

Washington, Oregon, Colorado, and Georgia real estate professionals expect median price growth to be 4 to 5 percent – the next highest expectations across the country.REALTORS® surveyed by NAR say that sharp price increases in recent months have made homes unaffordable for many potential home buyers and that they expect prices to moderate in the coming weeks.The median price of all existing homes sold in the U.S. as of July was $234,000, a 6 percent increase on an annual basis.

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site.http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

I'm disappointed that what I am looking for doesn't exactly exist (I am searching in Illinois and Wisconsin) but also relieved that I hadn't missed something really obvious.Jeff

What do I need to do to change the existing lease to my entity's name?

@Rob KrachYou are clearly acting as an agent and creating an illegal lease mandating tenant to do repairs.You can't find tenants for people because it's a "friend"my advice to you is to get a license in the state of Illinois, and then list properties for lease option and get a fee for finding a tenant buyerOr find a way to get on title as a principal without the license, such as subject to existing financing or land contract.As @Curt Smith said Google "YouTube Jeff Watson illegal Wholesaling"The business of Real Estate Investing takes not just reading on boards but getting a good contract attorney and understanding local laws of agency @Bill Gulley

Being along the river, you may be downhill from existing sewer lines. was the original farmhouse on septic?

Technically you would need to adhere to the existing lease terms.Many tenants don't mind signing new lease agreements if you ask.

Also, @Brandon Sturgill, there exists a VA program called Veteran's Housing and Employment Assistance or VHEA - Google it.If you're on Facebook, search for Christopher LaFayelle.

It DEFINITELY DOES NOT REQUIRE a license, but that doesn't stop some states - OH, for instance - from regulating it as licensable.Brokers (and agents, where they still exist) do not put properties under any contract other than a listing agreement which temporary and renewable.