One thing I'm not sure of is location in this case, I suppose I could either look in a well established area and expect equity to increase through remodeling or in a less desirable area that I'm gambling will attract more attention in the future.

"create an open and welcoming feel" That priority could help lead to the decision to remove the scruffy border hedges, etc.)and top 5 for the interiorBudget for exterior and a picture Weather conditions locally throughout the year and sun exposure of the house's frontWhen you do that you will have a clear direction of what your working with and be able to direct your learning and searching.

Hi all am thinking of starting to invest in the Buffolo /Niagra Falls are in New York   It s close to the border and fairly easy for me to get to.any ideas infor  or advice i can get on the area  would be really appreciated.ThanksLinda labbe

Playing the appreciation game can be like gambling, and if your house is really cash flowing well after all of your expenses and your mortgage payment I'm not sure if it makes sense to sell. 

I know locally Brady Sullivan has a large renovated mill portfolio throughout New England, they're headquartered just over the border in NH. 

If its negative cash flowing NOW and you don't have a ton of reserves to cover yourself long term for the HOPE/GAMBLE of the appreciation play, then its time to sell, cut your losses and move on

Some times it can work and the gamble pays off, unfortunately it usually does not.The numbers starting out look good enough to try you only lacked the experience to succeed.My advice would be to stay away from real estate.

The house is a border line tear down and I got such a great price on it that I could still make money on the dirt if for some reason I couldn't get the issue resolved and had to tear down and a buyer eventually build something back within the property lines. 

Southern border is more flexible.

I'm also entertaining the idea of staying put and just taking out a big HELOC, but my fear of getting stuck in this house and town is significant.....I don't gamble at all, and I don't watch sports.