But for the record some of the best deals I have ever purchased were from reputable wholesalers.

Just find someone who's reputation precedes them (in a good way.)

They placed plastic sheeting under the leak to divert the water to the shower.

The value exchange is his reputation for my 'everything else': finding the investors, finding the deal, gaining commitments onto the value-add prior to any money being changed hands.

Unless you are an experienced investor with a solid team, do not put to much energy into a project without visiting it first and certainly don't buy "sight unseen".You should have an inspection and get quotes on repairs from a reputable contractor.Please let me know if you have any questions.

if you get around to doing demo on the walls you must consider using containment (plastic barriers) to prevent the spread of spores all through the basement.Carefully and slowly cutting small pieces of damaged wallboard is safer than hitting it with a hammer or breaking out large pieces.The EPA has a great guide document on doing it yourself vs. using outside contractors.You are right.

I know Massachusetts has a reputation of being tougher to deal with removing tenants, so I'm concerned about this dragging out much further than 10/1.

I will also re-post numbers as we had to sharpen our pencils a few additional times.Question though, My contractor that I have is a very well know, and reputable business man.

In that case your reputation is on the line as well as energy and costs so if you decided to take on such a listing you stand firm on your pricing structure for your commission or you pass on taking the listing.I always look at how much work will have to be put in and what will the return be on that investment??

I understand the concern here, and its a risky move, however the seller has a good reputation.