Well not too long after this the oil industry crashed and it was no longer worth it to continue working there.

I don't change my own oil, hem my own clothes, or make very good phad thai:) I pay people to do these things.

Gives spray oil enamel results with latex ease and no smell.I'd join the local REIA and ask for referals for contractors who do rental rehab.

Can you turn the negative into positivex (lemons into lemonade)?

One of those freind's haS his own business but, unfortunately, he is in an oil-related business and has been effected with that problem in the oil business.  

For context, maintenance + repair costs are 15% of the monthly budget, insurance equates to 12%, and oil constitutes 25%.

Wife and I burn the midnight oil for a week or so prior to auctions.

While oil prices are in the sub-basement, I bet you can buy some wicked good deals on housing that'll look really good in a year when prices go back above $70/barrel.

You can say no in driveway parking and garage may be use for parking only (I specify no oil change/mechanical work in some garages).  

We have had so MANY lemonades turns into lemon aid that our entire business plan has evolved in the last 3 years.This is an amazing place because the only thing everyone agree with is real estate.