That said, the volume has dropped off considerably from its peak in my market 2 years ago while other sectors of construction have picked up for us which essentially allows us to be much more selective in what work we accept.

Now we have staff that takes our calls but I still love ^ that approach if you can't pick up. 

As this is the low season, maybe we can pick up something on the inexpensive but spectacular end of the spectrum.  

If you want to be more of an investor then find an investor to work for and take it all in.I personally would be an agent on the nights and weekends for a couple months to get your "feet wet" and as things are picking up then make the jump.  

just calling random contractors wont work .

Also will continue to pick up the right 1-4 unit buildings, although my end goal is to be consolidated into fewer buildings or "higher-end" SFHs.I am always down to talk to people about their experiences in RE over a coffee or beer and make the right connections.  

@Katharine Gonzalez the case you are describing can sometimes be picked up in a short sale. 

Misquoting, embellishment of what someone says, nit picking at a number asking for proof, avoiding the bigger picture of a topic or main concerns in order to make your point.

@Joe Fairless I picked Tampa becasue lots of canadian invest in Florida and I think Tampa's property prices are reasonable.How is the market in Cincinnati?

-About 500 sq ft of random areas of outdated 80s flooring-Water heater is from '91-A/c 6 years old-Roof looks good-Mandatory $100 social club fee at the Weston Lakes Country ClubThe house next door sold for 205k. 1740sq ft it sold outdated BUT had 3 bedrooms.