The people you're marketing to generally aren't in a difficult spot financially, and the only way they would sell to an investor is if they're going through divorce or some difficult emotional situation. 

Your advice about having an equity cushion is spot on.

Just make sure you get short-term renters insurance and you'll be in a good spot.

Can anyone fill me in on which area/cities are the up and coming spots that are worth investing in? 

I want to share, maybe not success, but my experience starting out in real estate investing.I do not have a blog so felt this was an appropriate spot.

@Steven Steffel is spot on.

I don't know where all of your pipes are (basement, crawl space, attic), but my approach was to start tracing everything backwards from the fixtures.

The paint & primer is all I use when painting but by itself it is not effective enough to cover all the mud spots without being seen.

if they're not the deal could be sold already. . so you better check that before you move forward. then drive there, estimate the rehab or call your contractor to give you an estimate on the spot. don't wait 2-3 days.. the deal might be sold. if the deal is good chances are lots of people are going to check it and send offers. .so you want to be the first in line direct to seller or direct representive.don't take anyone word. the real estate investing world is about making money. . and in most cases making money fast.. so trust only your own judgment.  

Tried to pry tiles off in random spots and they stuck well.