As for whether one has to get quid pro quo in increased rent for improvements, there is also a factor of the quality and longevity of the tenants one gets with an upgraded apartment even when rents are limited by neighborhood competitive pressures. 

Understand Closing Costs: Be prepared for closing costs, which can be 2-5% of the purchase price.7.

It is a question of opportunity cost. 

Though it might be naive, I was thinking of a buy and renovate project that would cost between 150k and 200K.Any recommendations and/or resources towards this goal would be greatly appreciated.

I want to do the most cost-effective plan for the house.

Financing with the HVAC company usually comes with hefty costs and interest rates.

Caveat being that rehab costs would be extremely high relative to ARV.

He has rejected larger offers and suggested I invest $5,000 for an 8-12% stake in the venture.They uses a cost-free retail space and a reliable, but paid event venue and has 100 attendees weekly.

Without knowing the renovation and soft costs, having the original purchase and eventual sale price is worthless data.

The seller benefits from the spread between the interest rates of the old and new loans.Agreement: Ensure a clear agreement on who will be responsible for the existing mortgage payments and how any arrears or defaults will be handled.Seller Second Mortgage:Structure: The buyer gets a new first mortgage to pay off the existing loan and a second mortgage held by the seller for the remaining balance.Consideration: This may require refinancing the existing loan, which can be costly and may change the loan terms.I hope this helped.