., plumbing, electrical, roofing) and try and estimate the costs for each. 

If you're not a plumbing expert, hire a scope pro who understands plumbing and can walk you through everything (or have a trusted plumber watch the scope with you and explain it).I once bought a property where the seller had just installed a brand new sewer line.

Couple of recommendations if it is possible:Purchase a home built after 1960's: likely poured in foundation, copper electrical that is grounded, plumbing that is not in need of replacement yet. 

The house is under some distress: the bathroom in the basement is in very poor condition and plumbing does not work.

so I have a HUD deal going on now, would like to know if anyone ever has seen a seller(HUD) credit other than the CC, because we made an above full price offer only to find out that the property has been vandalized, plumbing and electrical removed from under the house, hence we could not do our HI, we had to change our financing to 203b  with repair escrow and were told they would not reduce the sales price but give the buyer a seller credit.

Things that drive the ARV the most - roof, plumbing, flooring, paintThings that don’t drive ARV as much - windows, landscaping, driveway

We're finishing a basement & also considering updating electrical / plumbing. 

Just like if there is a plumbing or electrical issue those subs come back no problem..

@Rachel Chioreanu your PMC is following the law.Let's say the property suddenly becomes uninhabitable or the tenant is a victim of domestic abuse, both of which would legally get the tenant out of the remainder of their lease.Where would your PMC get the rent funds to reimburse the tenant if they've already disbursed the funds to you?

I'm exploring alternative financing options and would greatly appreciate insights or experiences in similar scenarios.Key Points:Property Location: Cahokia HeightsPurchase Price: $17,000Rental Income: Approximately $1,500/month via Section 8Condition of Property: Updated plumbing, roof is in good shape, needs AC unit, paint, flooring and cabinets and counter topI'm considering reaching out to private lenders but would like to gather opinions on:Feasibility of securing a mortgage for a low-cost property.Attractiveness of this deal to private lenders.Any creative financing strategies that could be applicable here.Legal and tax implications I should be aware of.Potential risks and how to mitigate them effectively.Any advice, suggestions, or contacts in the private lending space would be immensely helpful.