Not sure about specifics regarding your location (things like construction method and temperature will affect this), but here is a thread that covers some items to look for:http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/108961-frozen-faucets

If you would like to buy the house your best method is to go through the agent and make an offer, just because it's going through an agent doesn't mean you can't get a deal.

As of 18 or 19 years old, depending, use a combination of the REI investing methods of wholesaling and buy-and-hold to take advantage of the short-term capital gains of wholesaling to convert it into the long-term cash flow of rentals.

After inspection, we found some minor items and a rather sizable repair issue that involved replacing some beams and rot (band board, beam, trim).

I have gotten deals using this method when other people made higher offers on the purchase price.

I won't say that I'm an expert on challenging assessments in the city of Milwaukee, but I've known 2 or 3 people over the years that have attempted to challenge assessments, using the "much lower recent sale price" method and none of them had much luck.

I'm a more experienced churner then investor ( here learning)Using the method your mentioning has the potential to raise flags with the CC companies for misuse of the programChase has been known to shut down accounts and Amex calls you for a "audit"The method is valid but carries some risk if abused

I'm currently looking for a multi family unit I can acquire with FHA financing. 5k is a decent amount to get your foot in the door with that method providing you get the numbers right.

More and more investors are choosing this delivery method in our markets as they typically get the biggest bang for their buck this way and virtually eliminate they need for any change orders which can get out of hand without and good well defined scope of work and complete set of construction documents.One recommendation that I can make without hesitation is to be certain that you use only DC experienced and licensed general contractors when you bid it out, as I have seen lots of developers/investors get delayed due to regulatory issues associated with stop work orders and the like because a lot of contractors don't know the process and the system in DC.

I think "Hardening" your property is one of the best and easiest ways to trim expenses.