I've got two side jobs lined up that will net me about $400 cash combined. 

I actually went with a combination of your suggestions. 

Combine that multi-year price decline with the massive negative cash flows being taken and those "high demand" areas were losers for investors.I think the only lesson we can learn from the Zillow data is that buying in "high demand" areas after a market correction is a good strategy for profiting from the rebound.

How could you ever have the right combination of cashiers checks?

Combined we make a good income.  

A modern, power-vented, condensing water heater is 20% more efficient than an older draft/convectional flue water heater.The upfront sticker price is normally <10% of the lifetime operating costs ... if you compare an older convectional flue gas water heater (EFT 0.60 - 0.75) to a new sealed-combustion, direct vented, condensing water heater (EFT 0.85 - 0.90), the newer should more than make up for the sticker difference over its life.

Having a "do and learn" attitude, combined with the handyman abilities of a new born infant, I have had many frustrating and just straight embarrassing moments:1) I didn't realize I needed to put my utilities in my name before closing, so I show up to my property with the Duke Energy guy a few days (and a few celebratory drinks) after closing to get them turned on.

This was combined with the fact that our REO inventory was cut off with laws like AB284.

I hadn't thought about the more subdued entryways...but I think that is natural as people lean more towards craftsmen and modern styles vs. the Tuscan style villas of a decade ago. 

You don't have to always be charming, but a pleasant disposition when warranted in many circumstances is calming and appreciated and can further convey a sense of confidence when it is genuine and combined with effective knowledge and performance.I enjoyed your post.