General negotiation-- I like Getting to Yes.

Market is highly volatile but longterm average is only about equal inflation, so don't expect great appreciation like you would in other parts of LA in the long haul, but the initial cashflow is likely better.

I'm currently a truck driver who hauls gasoline.

Assuming the contractor is planning to provide:- Labor- Materials (including architectural shingles and similar gutter specs)- Tear off of existing roof and haul-away- Liability insurance- Workers comp insuranceThen I don't know where there can be much room for confusion on a bid. 

I would want to keep it as I need something to haul things around in, especially housing rehab materials.

I haven't been able to find many duplexes out there that make sense, but you have a great deal there.Since I'm out of state, I'm working with a few turnkey operators now, but toying with the idea of leaving my job and moving out there to invest once we build a modest savings!

Most people on here subscribe to the 50% rule, meaning 50% of your rent will be eaten up by expenses over the long haul.

We have multiple stores that we own and manage the real estate, along with apartment buildings and rental homes.I currently live in the Minneapolis area- planning to be there for the long haul; looking to take on additional responsibilities in real estate for my own.College graduate of Arizona State (Go-Devils!)

I contacted a plumber to look at it I see how hard it would be to separate the water at least to be able to sub meter them but that doesn't solve the shared water heater so then I would have to add a 2nd electric water heater for the upstairs unit - thinking that this will be completely cost prohibitive.Including utilities in the rent sounds like it could be very expensive over the long haul.

If you're going to be in the game for the long haul I think you need to learn how to create wealth in any business cycle the market is experiencing.