I think you should focus on what strategy your wanting to implement and then dive deeper.

We go really cheap on some things, like paint,  towel/toilet paper holders, and go higher end on things like faucets.. as others have mentioned, it's an art and you have to find your balance.Also... so  many people forget-- this is someone's future home, this isn't a mutual fund/stock, so you need to focus on what things will make your tenants happy! 

I'm looking for websites or other places I can find real time data on real estate sales so I can make solid decisions on where to focus my investing efforts. 

Focus on lowering rents to keep vacancy down! 

Put your focus on one task and see it through to the end.

I'd suggest that if you are going to pursue this strategy that you focus your efforts on figuring out who you might want to invest with, conduct thorough due diligence on them, talk to references, and visit their offices...and invest with those groups directly rather than through a crowdfunding website.  

First I think you need to try and narrow down what areas of REI you want to focus on.

The prices for these dilapidated buildings can be very reasonable and if they have been out of commission for a while, some sellers are willing to accept creative financing options.I started my journey of searching for old motels in Michigan about a year ago, only focusing on it on my spare time while I work on my e-commerce businesses.

I will have around 100k to be used on a personal property and/or first deal.My goal is to focus on commercial real estate using cash flowing apartment complexes in order set myself up for early retirement.

Hi Adam, what area of Pittsburgh are you focusing on?