If you want to succeed you need to move out of your denial stage and realise that selling is the right and only option if you plan on moving forward.You can polish a turd until it shines like a diamond but it will always be a turd.

I have a theory that I was a good tenant that didn't destroy anything and I aim to have " me " as my tenants so I should be looking to own a place I might have rented for myself at various ages and stages. 

I centered my MLS search just South of Carillo Elementary and went out a 1 mile radius.  

There are some good areas in Center township, but for the most part, you want to avoid it.

We picked one up at the visitor center.

As @Tj Hines says it's widely used, which gives me further confidence it's of good quality as well.I had thought about building my own at some stage, but now I'm using that one I really can't be bothered to waste the time on it.

newbie here too. just wished to introduce myself. formerly from washington, dc, i'm just getting started in the staging arena in california and i'm looking to make some connections as well. j scott and mike are spot on. get all your ducks in a row. the place has fabulous bones though. as for duplex vs sfh, do comparisons in the area. size of each apt and what that might rent for vs the sfh. it would be beautiful being returned to a single family but... and what are the costs of returning to sfh vs keeping duplex scenario...thanks and sincerely, sydney

Look for ads - We buy real estate...... whom do you see more often at a auctions - talk to real estate agents who deal with investors - who is their best client -You are looking for THE MAN - the person who is making things happen - this is the person you want to connect with.Don't over-look active investors on Bigger Pockets - it is OK to have a long distant Mentor as long as they are qualified - active in the market and can prove it.When you find THE MAN - the person who is making deals - bringing in $20,000 or much more a month - this is the person you want to FOLLOW ---So - how do you you worm yourself into his center of influence?

I was skeptical too, to touch the stones at this stage of the rehab.

Enzo Bellido Before you completely mix the real estate agent, have you thought of how you are going to market, stage and show the unit?