I have never negotiated build out before and I understand that I was going to need to add some walls and outlets anyway.

So their tone might change and they might be open to a 45-60 day close on a reno, 203k or homestyle, at that point. 

If I do not, I invest it in the stock market. 6 months or less is sort of my time horizon where I do not want to let the value of that cash drop in the market if I know I am going to need soon.

after that it still needs to be deeply discounted for your cash buyer that the numbers make sense.Youre probably going to need 10% emd liquid too.For cash buyers what i do is look up the deeds for recently sold renovated or rebuilt properties in your area.

Talk with the references.I dont trust anyone who solicits over the internet, especially anyone who is going to need to see my bank statements, tax returns, ss#.

Buying a house just to live in is a waste of money unless you have really good reason to need a detached single family...and I say this as someone who bought a primary residence first and now wish I had used my down payment on my first investment instead!

Thank you biggerpockets community for the instruction and support that has allowed us to be in the position to need to ask these questions.

If you want to get into REI you are going to need one or it will be incredibly difficult to get started.

@Shar Day -- Some recommendations:Security Deposit Refund: It sounds like you're going to need that security deposit, so don't give it back to them as an incentive to move.Notice to Vacate: Check your state's laws and your lease. 2 weeks does not sound like enough time, as you may need to give 30 days notice.

Hi Sherief,You can find houses for $50K in Allentown, but they're going to need work.