Not only that, the thought of turning a distressed home (ok, maybe cosmetically distressed for now, since I am new) into a beautiful home actually really excites me.

I can just imagine trying to rent it to a tenant using the bold red print on your image.

Account Closed If you look closely at the list of cities, there are plenty that are blue cities in red states( Atlanta, Raleigh, Miami, Dallas, Austin) and the rest are blue cities in blue states.

I have an experienced investor, but he doesn't want to put money into the deal.If this doesn't set off a giant red flashing light in your face then it should.

I live near 3 beautiful lakes, and I really want a deck boat for me and my family.  

There goes his dream red sport car in his former bedroom, if the cause of the fire is intentional..

@Mindy Jensen That is the beauty of working with an experienced partner.

He clearly lied in a way that hamstrung the deal, breaching his fiduciary duty to his client and that's a big red flag. 

I'm with @Fred Heller on this, painting isn't a great option, unless you've got a beautiful old clawfoot tub. 

If you feel lucky, go to Vegas and bet on red on roulette.