That could be a great way to find and stay engaged with local investors, realtors and opportunities. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsYou can also search for other investors or brokers in your market and follow their journey on Bigger Pockets here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersAnd of course, be sure to subscribe to the podcast - so much great info there and always full of inspiration.

I am not comfortable with them staying in the home, even if they stay in the addition part of the home and don't go in the damaged part. 

But, sometimes the issues needed to be dealt with might prevent some types of financing, so the Escrow method is one way to stay on track.This also assumes, of course, the lender agrees to it.

I know this is one of his first flips as a lead contractor, and I want to stay positive with him because I believe this is the best form of motivation, but we also have a deadline and need to have it completed by then.Best,Matt

Our goal is to get our first home and stay mortgage payment free while learning to manage properties for the first time, then to take that experience and invest in the more lucrative out of state areas.

Keep in mind that you cannot keep doing that method, you'd have to change location (couple miles away or closer to work), or if you stay in the same location you have to buy a bigger property.

So, he left, they stayed.

It also gives the current tenant to have at least one month to look for a new place and allows them to decide if they want to stay or leave.

STAY TUNED for what is to comePS:  I am looking to obtain some lending to get this deal done

Would be great to stay in touch since we are both looking to invest in this area.