But people worry too much about optimizing, as though that is going to be the make or break factor. 

Build your account, fund it, and it will optimize itself and you'll be tweaking the ads and keywords, and in a month or two you'll have a good idea of your cost per lead and if your budget is driving enough opportunity for you."

I have sometimes thought that the optimism on this board reminds me of that movie.

On a $60k property, I assume granite counter tops and custom cabinets are not on the menu.

I used to do the bulk thing with an assistant but some owners had properties that were non optimal for my clients.

Living in sub optimal conditions to be close to work is no longer necessary.  2.

You arnt really going to get anything in an optimal DC neighborhood at that price, unless youd go to SE like you said. 

To answer your question, I invested about 5 years ago with a group who had lots of optimism and confidence but lacked the necessary skills to properly renovate and manage a large apartment building (400-units).

This article from yesterday shows some more optimism for those who bought HOA foreclosures in Nevada: http://vegasinc.com/business/2015/may/18/gavel-han...Some investors have been getting free & clear title, but it's just taking time.