Yes, I'm still seeing recording take up to 90 days in some locations...in others it's only a week or two...The three MLS systems that I'm a member of all have requirements that property status information must be updated in the system within a day or two -- if you close on a sale and don't update the MLS listing within a day or two (specific time limit varies based on MLS), you will get fined.I don't know any agents who ever even check on the recordation status of their properties -- the closing agents generally just tell the buyers, "If you don't get a stamped deed back from the county within a couple months, let us know..."

Is it possible for an investor to gain access to the MLS without an agent?

These cash-flowing houses may have clientele with job issues, often late pay troubles, and if you buy older houses, these will need major systems repaired or replaced. 

The houses that are $30K have old systems and will require more repairs.

The difference between new business failing and new franchises succeeding is franchises have perfected a system that’s has proven to work time and time again.

Hi everyoneI've been hard at work building a robust automated real estate system integrated with my marketing in infusionsoft for my business and I'm finally super close to being finished.

The first few generations of AFCI breakers are known to have been troublesome, regardless of manufacturer.A picture inside that electrical panel could be telling of this, and the electrical system in general.I'd be surprised if the hokey wiring pictured is causing the AFCI breaker problems.

I've made my fair share of costly mistakes, which fortunately has led to my success and perfection of a system that work for me (and others).If you do your due diligence, and select a good market or two, then there won't be any "cons". 

If not, are there tips you can share on how to judge how much life is left in your furnace/boiler or central air system?

Tell them you can set them up on your auto-notification system that will alert them of houses that meet their criteria as they come on the market (Let's hope your MLS has this amazing feature).If, then, the buyers say they're working with an agent then fine.