But, I'm sure that a long term thesis, grounded in fundamentals, will do super well in NYC.

They are great sellers, but then want you to pay extra pretty much for EVERYTHING!  

I think the folks that pay for these programs have the wherewithal to simply cut a check and its no big expense to them compared to what they stand to get out of it. 

But you need to educate yourself and know exactly what the remedy is, or you may pay a huge expense for nothing.Any company that's doing a bid will video your line (no cost) so they can properly determine what the issue is.

The long term (since 2000) appreciation for chicago is 3.35%/year.  3.35 * (10/6) = 5.58% return from appreciation.Total return: 5.58% (appreeciation including the leerage) + 2% (cash flow)= 8.58% + equity pay down + tax benefits.I fear your total return does not justify the effort and risk of residential RE.San Diego is a good market for long holds.

What have you been paying for utilities?

Sometimes it's better to pay a bit more, for a real professional to handle your most important transaction. 

Since Texas is a tax deed state, you gain ownership at auction, but the previous owner has 6 months to 2 years to redeem it by paying your bid plus 25% interest (in year one).

For small MFH/SFH you have to find the deal, inspect, estimates and decide what to do, make a deal, get financing, get contractors, manage contractors, pay contractors, then turn it over to a property manager.

My area is relatively low crime, but had one place that someone broke a window to get in.... probably a homeless guy looking for a place to sleep....got scared when neighbor turned light on.I put in a SimpliSafe unit... portable, easy to set up, multiple options- you can use a webcam and get alerts on your phone and future tenant can pay for full service if they want.