But first, here's some homework for you - on one sheet (digital or analog) write down:Pull out your comps research and demographics, from this create an ideal customer. there's plenty online to walk you through how to perfectly describe this person in detail. 

One thing to note: the SOW for a fixed bid project is usually orders of magnitude more detailed and specific.

Never had to rely on that provision so I can't recall all the details.

Houston might be cheaper than most cities in Cali but the market is tight so if something is just hanging out on the shelf is probably a sign.One great way to get a good feel of the property is to ask whoever selling that house to take a detailed video of the house and send it to you.

Account Closed Forward me details of properties if you have good investment property. 

Based on the facts in your post I would lean more towards purchasing a home that is in turn key condition, enjoy the equity, and tax benefits while you educate yourself on other details of real estate. 

We tried them as a result and they were very process oriented and detail focused. 

If you own several smaller income properties, a vacancy in one is only a fraction of your monthly income.If you feel like posting some more details of the current prop, I'd be happy to weigh in again - it might be a total winner and you'd be silly to sell it, who knows? 

I have been learning a lot through online sources, but one area that I am still unsure of is how much detail a Purchase and Sales Agreement needs to have when entering into a contract with a motivated seller.

So maybe you fight through 2-3 years of saving every penny and buying properties and then just life off your investments.Obviously I don't have all the details of your situation, so I am just presenting one idea based on the information you have provided.