I'm new to BiggerPockets.com but this looks like a great resource and a great community for real estate investing.  

That said, I really like looking at them as it is always interesting to think what can be done when you buy a building at $2k/unit.Feel free to use me as a resource to bounce questions off of, I am working with a few other new investors and I really enjoy getting people started. :)

I have a year or so before I have the 20% saved and wanted to start learning about what goes into home improvement such as the price differences between countertops, flooring, etc.Any advice or resources you guys have would be great.

I like to be aware of the resources available like this and FSBO.com.

Stick with this site terrific information and resources.

But if you do have private resources then let's use those FIRST. 

On a final lender employment verification for one of my clients, employment could not be verified because the human resource department at this government agency is shut down.

(This is with Xcel Energy)

The owner has two parcels totaling roughly 8.5 acres, but it is zoned Resource Conservation. 

I see replacing the unit if energy conservation is important to you or you want a better functioning unit in your apartment for future use.