Oh, and I'm not worth listening to under any circumstance.  

If you do not have any more contingencies still valid, your deposit belongs to the seller if you buy the property or not.The dual agent is not a good idea in many circumstances, and this is a perfect example of why.

How to find a deal: you can search these topics to find out more on each- Driving for Dollars(easiest and cheapest)-Direct mail (takes cash)- Bandit signs( check local ordinances) -A lead generating websiteIs it a Good deal: research these topics- Local market ( flip area or rental area)- cost of rehab (most neglected area)- ARV or after repair value- How to find Comps (real ones) So there you have it, a short list of what you need to know to start and I'm sure I missed a bunch.

Yes, what landed us in this position could happen again. simply because the situation stemmed from a few life circumstances (loss of employment, medical problems, new baby, and loss of vehicle) all in a couple months.

All these factors determine when the down payment/ deposit will be released to the seller.No matter the circumstance it is always best to have a third party hold down payment/ deposit with very detailed instructions in the contract which how the money with be paid out, circumstances for refund, etc...

I was explaining cash for keys to my wife earlier tonight....and now that REALLY makes sense...for certain circumstances. 

I am yet to hear a "this Sec8 tenant is so clean and neat, they never neglect the property" story from the local investors.

I also wanted to kind of be seperate from him in my own way some what just incase but that doesn't seem like an option giving the circumstances.

Now regarding your current asset, I have witness many circumstances that have turned regular old CA multi 20 years later to mid level lottery style winnings with redevelopment.

So how is you having at some point been in a courtroom when a landlord is getting sued (under quite different circumstances I'm sure) at all relevant to a tenant suing a plumber?