Roofing is "amateurish" and has some buckled shingles (no leaks) Missing flashing on roof & other areas Missing sealing on windows and doors Rafters separated from adjoining rafters; purlins undersized Attic needs more ventilation Toilets need replacing House is filthy Several smaller issues like water heater and washer/dryer not raised 18" off floor The good news -- the foundation looks great. :) Personal observations Flooring needs replacing ($1,000 -- will use vinyl plank/carpet) Walls need painting ($500) Dead tree in front yard needs removing ($300) Fence needs repair ($500) Hole in drywall needs repair ($300) My question -- do you see any dealbreakers here?

I am talking the real Detroit.Do you watch the news?

Today, their hands are tied and this is just not as likely.Also, while REO listings use to dominate the inventory, they are now the minority of listings.Sorry I don't have better news for you, however, that does not mean you should not be goring relationships or stop going after REO deals.

Good news.

Great news Matt.

The modification lender will not allow any kind of a short sale to a family member, so they have to get their money, and any new lender you deal with to finance your purchase will require the home to be lien free when you purchase it.Sorry for the "bad" news :(

In those cases, I usually think, "If I woke up tomorrow morning, and got the news that I won this bid or that my offer was accepted, how will I feel?

Realty Trac's recent rental returns data would suggest that a good portion of the city is in the nice middle range for cash flow:http://www.realtytrac.com/content/news-and-opinion/best-and-worst-markets-for-rental-returns-heat-map-8023Eager to hear your take on jobs and other factors in the city.

It made national news- only in SF would (some vocal) people be against tech companies providing free shuttles to their SF based employees.

You can also find some of my magazine article in the News section of my company's web site.