Not only is usage down to lowest levels in over a decade, but there's reason to believe that domestic production of bio-fuels will (relatively soon) reach levels that will not only sustain us, but will provide some major export opportunities.

Wayne, Reading these forums is a great way to start -- I've learned a lot about real-world solutions here versus books and articles.

In either cases we would be putting 10% down and planning on refinancing out of mortgage insurance in about 2 years, after making renovations.The reason home possible is not the obvious solution is because we don’t quite qualify.

They can help guide you to creative solutions to finance a purchase.

Since the lower unit is already small I am not a huge fan of this since the heaters sit on the wall and take away from living space but it seems like the most cost effective solution I've found so far.

Solution: We move to Fells Point in Baltimore when our lease was up at the apartment we were living in. 

The main market I may focus on is Houston, because I have relatives there, and there are definitely opportunities within the rings of Houston.Currently, I am extremely busy with my construction business in OC, Ca, so the thought of OOS investing may have to postpone.I am actively investing in OC, Ca, and will probably sustain here for a while... because of the relationship I have developed with the colleagues in my construction industry.

The solution was there were several wholesalers that still had some pretty good buys off market.In todays market, there are not in my opinion much in the way of great buys on the MLS or off market as even the wholesalers are bringing me "deals" at retail prices.

Sorry I wont be able to share any thought on a solution or some clarity.

I don't want any part of her money, and do just fine earning for myself.The scenario here is that she didn't come into $2m(I know that was just a guesstimate and I didn't specify what she came into), but she came into a few hundred thousand which won't necessarily sustain her for the rest of her life.