$500 is about what to expect...however you don't have a choice, you can not get your own.It's also entirely possible there is a backup in Salisbury thus nessecitating a higher fee to get it done in time.

I am trying to soak in as much information and advise as possible while working my full time job running a doctor's office, so any tips and information thrown my way would be very much appreciated.  

I have some stock market experience and have been able to do quite well, however the volatility is frustrating and it sounds like the possibility of higher returns is greater with real estate.

If there is anyone out there that wants to brainstorm possibilities in Pittsburgh, I'm game. 

Direct mail to absentee owners may be a great idea, you just need to understand it is not magic, and will take a min of 6 touches to your list to possibly close a deal.

He has 2 surviving kin, one of which is institutionalized, and I'm fairly certain his (middle aged) daughter will want to sell.What makes this a possibly great opportunity is the fact that he was the first owner of the home, built in the late 50s early 60s, and owns the property free and clear!

I hope to glean from others experience as well possibly be able to give some helpful thoughts from time to time on areas that I have gained knowledge through my property management and my new endeavor as a realtor and investing.

It's tricky to finance non US citizens but possible through an LLC.    

response : yes with possible arvcoc -> myself yes, for the amount of cash you are dishing out ( only my 2 cents - prefer at least 10% - 12% )quick glance : do you have snow removal  in your number or part of property management percentage ?

I have spent some time trying to understand how to determine my true cost of capital but not sure if I am doing it correctly.This is the calculation I am doing, if possible please let me know if this is right or I just made up my own magic formula:Loan for $225,000 @ 3.25% = $10,562.50Paying PMI @ $155.78/month x 12months = $1869.36$10,562.50 + $1869.36 = $12,431.86$12,431.86/$225,000 = 5.525%Also, I appreciate the wisdom in regards to financial ratios, carrying costs, etc etc.