@David Hunter I too agree that the Realtor has to be master negotiator for being successful realtor and this point is valid too.

Everything imported, including gas, is at least 30% more expensive in Canada than the US, partly b/c of this.  

I recently won a court case where the former owner was trying to say that he had a valid cloud on my title because he recorded a lis pendens after the sale but before the trustee's deed was recorded. 

My experience (in buying several severely mismanaged properties) is that the owners will likely have equally mismanaged tax records (eg; all investment activities lumped together, etc.).My due diligence for an area that I'm "blind" to (have never worked in before) would roughly be as follows:-Speak w/ local realtors & property managers to determine appropriate market rent for all units-Get copies of all leases to verify current rent roll-Speak w/ my insurance agent, get appropriate quotes-For any utilities I'll be responsible for, find out local market rate for electricy/gas/water & sewer and use what I know to be "average" consumption for those services-Use estimates I know are sound for maintenance/capex reserves, etc.

Hardwood and tile all the way.As for appliances, what is the average lifespan for a new gas stove, electric stove, refridgerator, diswhasher, washer, dryer?

Heat gas and electric is paid by tenantsThe numbers seem awesome and this would be a buy and hold I just don't know if it's to good to be true or if I am missing something. so I want to hear what you pros think.

Without a job you will have a hard, if not impossible time getting financed.If you have substantial cash reserves to cover maintenance, repairs, vacancies, and lenders requirements...If you have validated the amount of rent you can get in your market.

There is a huge shortage of skilled labor as the oil and gas business has sucked up everyone with any talent.

Your comment is very valid, but I have ulterior motives. 

Either pop over the bridge once in a while or we can also meet in the Gas Lamp...