@Anthony Gayden  you know I don't know how people on the SF peninsula that do mid level to low level jobs are living these days.. with the rents and cost of real estate. that's a good point.the train is a LOOOONG way off.. but people have been commuting long distances in CA for the last 30 plus years.. when I first started in Portland I used to laugh when buyers would say Ya but that house is 25 minutes out of town  LOL...

Welcome aboard the REI train!

I just moved back to Auburn after being gone 6 months for a training program.

Totally normal....Just remember.....ANYONE can be a "contractor"...... no real skill....no formal training......many are unlicensed etc etc etc.

its when people get cheapo on this and buy 100k properties on quit claim deeds with no title insurance that things get dicey quickly.I had a guy on BP hit me on PM he drank the land trust cool laid and the did the deeding them selves and now no one will insure it.. no title company will give a lenders policy.. so he is stuck in the mud.. and the seller he said won't resign

I wanted to reach out to individuals in the area to ask for some advice or tips for a newbie.

It's a very cool site... very informative... plus i reveal lots of secrets. and tricks and tips.Whatever you do .... do not just think that you need to invest in your own backyard (also I personally sort of would invest into my own backyard... else just too risky when diving into it brand new... but if opportunity realizes that is better... jump on it...).. 

Does anyone have any tips on how to handle cleaning of the unit after guests leave?

I am just getting started looking for my first deal. Been to a couple of group meetings and feel like I should have some cards. Only thing is I don’t really do anything yet so not sure what to put on them. I thought a...

I'm aware that "re-training" (as @Brandon Turner would say) will be part of the work involved in getting this property churning at full efficiency, however I think I have more important decisions to make (see below).