We already have a backup place to live as a gift from my grandparents in case things go wrong or if they pass away we could rent it out for side income, which we are considered very lucky to have.Hopefully the future will be bright for us both.

I really didnt understand this statement until my father suddenly passed away from a heart attack in 2012.

They said the cost of living was high as property taxes are higher %'s upkeep of the home from extreme weather and overall higher from all the activities  that had to come up with to get out of the house clothing, entertainment , the right snow cars not mention wear and tear on the vehicles.

I'm not looking for short sales and don't believe the OP was, either @Jr T.If I wanted to be a Realtor, I would have hung a license after passing that easy test (that taught me nothing about investing) 4 years ago.   

It was a Spanish client of his, whose husband passed away, after a legal battle with her late spouse's family, she won the right to sell the home that they had lived in for years.

If the service needs to return a third-time - because vehicles were not moved - there is a surcharge which we pass along to those tenants whose vehicles impeded the snow removal. 

I am guessing a lot of owners just collect the rent, defer all the major repairs and expenses, sell and pass them to the next buyers.

Not sure what to think there.If this is your first deal, maybe you should pass and wait for more of a sure thing?

., yes septic (which also worries me with the rain...just got serviced in May and supposedly in good shape...passed FHA inspection...but who knows...it'll be an adventure...just have to keep a lot in reserves I guess) and propane.  

With 5500 sq/ft in GV you will get more bang  for your buck if the house can entertain well.