Hi Michelle, I come across off-market properties in Pinellas somewhat regularly -- especially in Clearwater, Dunedin, and Safety Harbor.

Once you have done a deal or two you will be much more proficient and can cut back a little on your safety padding.Hope this helps,Allen Fletcher

Just be patient and wait for a deal in a better area, or don’t buy at all to prevent losing money from D properties.

My wife bought her first home with an FHA loan, refinanced to conventional with a big down payment she saved while living there, and rented it out.Bottom line, the low down payment programs are a great way to get into REI if you're patient.

It's "security" meant in the financial sense, not as in "safety"."

I'm a safety nerd, you may roll your eyes at that suggestion.... :)It readily mixes with water so if present it will immediately lose strength. 

If you do get a deal done with them, just be patient.

There is not much small multi-family in Raleigh, but there is some if you are very patient.

You are responsible for the safety and health issues in your building, and hoarding and odors like you describe are health issues (think rats) for the entire building. 

Wilfred Diaz You need to talk to your building and safety first, 2/1 to 4/3 is a very intensive rehab, with your lot size, I'm willing to bet it's not allowed.