If you mean construction cost, the elements of that line item alone is composed of two major sub-line items being hard cost (slab up) and site work which is further bifurcated into on and off site costs.

You need to understand what each represents itself, but more so how they interact with each other and trend over time.

I understand that all investing has an element of risk.  

You could get an electric radiant cooktop with a single element.

There are some investors who would simply see that interaction as a frustrating waste of their time, but I think that fact that you responded with such compassion speaks well of you.  

I'm new to the game, and it sounds like my confusion is spreading to the people I'm interacting with at the title companies.As for how I found out about the previous tax lien purchase I was verifying that the property would in fact be in an upcoming tax sale with the treasurer's and auditor's office.

I agree with your assessments about the city streets, but that's as much an element of living in the snow belt as anything else (and I grew up in Buffalo, New York, so I know snow).

Also, you're investing, so take the emotional element out of the deal.

I have wanted to interact with BP members who deal with Detroit area specifically.  

Keeping the posts interactive is important...remember we are always the Teachers and the Students.