As for utilities it would be the same if you share water and it is not separately metered to accurately determine usage then that bill would be split and used as an expense for the other unit, not deductible but an expense.

Don't know if I would take that gamble.

The BUY side isn't where most of us are going to worry but that was a great example.The more likely place they get in trouble will be if they give the fairly accurate statement of "I have a list of investor buyers that will buy your property at the price we agree on and I will just get a small fee to connect you guys."

Though how would I calculate the returns over the same risk in an accurate way?

As a rehabber, here is what I would look for:* Your package should include an accurate detailed analysis of the deal, including all acquisition, rehab, holding, and closing cost estimates.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/retirement-gamble/Amazing what a difference the 2% fee average fund fee makes over a lifetime.

He's taught me how to estimate repairs and how to accurately assess comps.

I know nothing is free so I just want an accurate idea of what it takes to get started.Regarding the whole 50% ARV concept, does this mean you need to try to get the seller to sell you the property for half of what it will be worth after someone repairs it?

ya, I tell them I'm buying the house with some 'owner financing' which is 100% accurate, truthful and NOT deceitful.

The main thing is getting accurate data asap.Jeff