The self dealing aspect is what gives Real Estate agents a "bad image" ( I could have used more colorful language but out of respect did not).  

Listen to the podcasts with titles that don't sound like where you want to focus your investing, you will usually learn something or at least how that aspect of real estate investing works.

if you know anyone in the Paris, IL. area looking for a buy and hold rental, I have one that's been completely rehabbed on the inside, just could use a new roof.

It is a great place to meet new friends and learn about various aspects of real estate and more.

If you will find really bad problems like bad roof, foundation, mold - just bid down.

Looking to fix up aspects of my property, but need good quotes.Thanks,Brian

It is a great place to meet new friends and learn about various aspects of real estate and more.

Welcome to BP community @Andrew Williams It is a great place to meet new friends and learn about various aspects of real estate and more.

Consider any due on sale clause filing an option.Owner occupied, have a mortgage originator qualify the buyer.Do not put contingencies in an option that require performance, like paying rents agreed, it will invalidate the option making it a purchase contract, an optionee may not be required to perform in any aspect under an option.The lease and option are separate contracts, the lease may require performance, like paying rents as agreed.A residential tenant may not be responsible for repairs, IRS requirements.On a 3 year option, it will be better if you were to pay $3,600 as seller concessions to closing costs, she must pay pre-paids under most mortgages.

You didn't think about management, takes, capital expenditures like a new roof, tree roots cracking the foundation, replacing HVAC, vacancy, or evictions.