The key to this arrangement was simple: I had use of that money to make well over 50K TAX FREE if desired...or taxable if I choose to go that route.

We also time effective dates so that if they choose to move (for month to month tenants) they are doing so in warm weather given that we are in Minnesota

So, pick a couple strategies to focus on and then you can choose to dabble in others with any extra time you have.If you are in need of a Realtor, I'd be happy to work with you to find you your next deal and many after that!

I usually just try to provide enough value to them that when we do go to offer they want to choose me, and that works sometimes and sometimes I've gotten burned.

I'm considering telling her I'll split the cost with her provided I choose the blinds.

My recommendation is to choose cities in safe and economically diversified areas with above-average income and population growth.

Now to the bad news: By choosing to buy the property as is with no contingencies you accepted the house warts and all which means that according to your contract you are on the hook for the purchase.

@Darryl Reed 1) Educate 2) Define your goals 3) Choose your investing strategy 4) Choose your market {you may want to switch the order of 3 & 4 if you can stay local} 5) Find the Rockstars who can help you succeed.

I have no idea what that agent charged him, but in this case choosing an agent with a lot less experience in selling this particular home cost him a lot of money, erasing the entirety of his expected profit. 

I choose to self mange this property since it is at a higher rent rate and new construction.Deal finding: Upside opportunity to increase rent over time.