It's a ridiculous mandate by the legislators who thinks they'll save the environment on the back of tax payers.my point stands.

I am slowly going crazy with how expensive Massachusetts is and I am leaning towards looking at cheaper foreclosure properties.I understand there is some risk to this but I am beginning to think this is the only optio...

However, we have found time and time again that 10-20 hours of preparation on the front end can save you 50-60 hours during the renovation.

Similar to a checking or savings.

I do well, at least enough to go on vacations as a family, put money into high yield savings accounts, max out the ROTHs and add to investments when I can with money saved in savings and checking accounts.

If the idea of doing accounting or finance is not appealing, don't do it.

I believe it was because I had good track record with the the local lender, $25k cash in savings, and a property that appeared okay in photos.  

Another idea I would recommend especially as a business owner or investor would be to consider going to a BNI or Networking in Action type of meeting as a guest.

@Nathan Johnson "Our savings are minimal, since teaching isn't very lucrative and life is expensive."

I would keep the brokerage account and focus on the tried-and-true practice of saving up for a new investment.