Committing yourself to enjoying a foreign environment is a sure way to draw opportunity in.

If I have to continue working, I will as I love what I do, but I have to set some strong goals to ensure I'm on track to do what I need for my children.

It is quite small and looks like a strong rental community.

(You won't be taking any legal action, other than a strongly worded letter from an attorney).

I'm fairly excited, and so now my biggest concern is just that we have few foreclosures, a lot of cash buyers, and a strong seller's market - even if I can *determine* what a neighborhood is probably like and where it's probably going, getting my bid accepted is going to be a challenge.

By walking away without a signed contract (even with a verbal agreement), there is less emotional commitment from the seller, and it's much more likely they'll end up backing out before a contract is signed.As for what you should bargain the price down to, I'd shoot for $10.

Id like to stay where its a bit warmer (than ND) but that's about it.My first plan was to go to Jackson ms, the amount of extremely cheap houses was enticing and I was strongly considering this for quite some time, I talked to 3 separate Realtors that were of no help as far as getting neighborhood information.

House was on the market less than 48 hours before we accepted a very strong offer at $332K (40% down, $10K in escrow, wanted to close in 3 week period).

I also strongly agree with @Jeff Greenberg: consider passive investments, particularly while you are learning.

And frankly if someone is committed to never investing in themselves, then adopting that take makes sense.