It is the long term lease which gives a more stable cash flow that attracts me.

@Josh Lewer I admit that I am a more passive investor, and I personally see nothing wrong with that.

I find they are a more fun way to learn and the episodes cover a multitude of strategies

I did get mine the day I asked just curious if there is a more efficient way.

Based on their prices, you could then turn to your original contractor, let him know what the other prices look like and ask him if he would like a chance to reconsider his costs and put in a more competitive bid.

Welcome to Bigger Pockets Preston Nakayama As a real estate investor for over 40 years I can attest that there has never been a more valuable resource available for the newbie or the initiated.

A more true comparison would be Therms/year, or the amount of gas used per year based on the standardized test cycle.  

a part of me wants to start with a few smaller projects, but another part of me wants to get into a bigger investment where there is a higher risk but a higher return as well. maybe rehab a big house in a more prominent area in northern NJ where we live.  

I am curious if serious prospects are comfortable leaving a voicemail with all their info so that I may screen them at a more convenient time.

Nonetheless, our NOO/rentals are not in CA - and we don't have these water rationing issues there.Our primary residence (and I would probably also do this if and when we purchased investment properties here) is primarily grass with some native trees, shrubs and plants (near the property).To allow us to have grass without heavy fines for water we use 1) apply summer guard and 2) winterize our laws. 3) we are mandated to water only Wed and Sat (early am or late evening).