The city came out and determined that the problem was actually on the city property, and not ours (the tree was outside our property line and so were the cracks in the pipes.)

After that you'll want to see what sub-market/zip code might make sense given the relative rent/price ratios.

Prior to losing the home in foreclosure the previous owner had retaliated against the lender by cutting out most of the exposed electrical wiring and removing the heat and air units from the property. 

If you had a mold remediation company do all the work and mitigation, send the threatening party the reports and clearance.

What if the city shuts the entire thing down until the basement is converted?

During the GFC, the Obama administration took control of these entities and they have since been 100% controlled by the government. 

We got a small drop last month but nothing worth bragging about.I was thinking of doing a refi with dropping rates but doesnt seem like thats in cards currently...Thank you The bond market happened.

Welcome to the world of bank loans!

For pre-foreclosures, reach out to the homeowner directly or through a letter.

The profitability is very depend on the lease you negotiate with the property owners.