I figure these are great people to know, since they obviously have cash on hand if they are buying properties at Sheriff's sales.Congrats on this - these guys can be ruthless and sometimes only buy super bargains, but still, you now are connected with no doubt multiple millions in cash should you come across a super sweet deal.Not the first group to sell to (they are far from retail buyers) but it all depends on which ones you have met - I know in my area some of the courthouse steps guys are willing to operate on lower margins than other traditional investors because they are working on volume.

Super low call percentage, trying to figure out what I can do to better that.

Pouring environmentally-safe anti-freeze down the drains and in toilet bowls and tanks can keep water remaining in the P-traps from freezing as well.I do want to commend you for having your neighbors check on the property. 

Learn to evaluate prospective deals quickly and only spend time on due diligence when an opportunity is solidly in your crosshairs and in contact with principal(s).Suggest you look for property owners in distress and negotiate super-bargains rather than buying at trustee sales or other auctions. 

Although a cash-out refi is always an option, I'd like to avoid that since I'd lose the existing super low rate.

@Bob Bowling  When I am evaluating my own rentals or ones for wholesale i do NOT use the 50% rule. 

One response was that's like going to the Indy 500 and saying you want to get a Driver's license.I don't think it's that bad but Cambridge is a super, if not uber hot RE market!

Civil engineering...super cool!

I baking soda on carpets or carpet freshener with baking soda leave it on a day or twoPlain vinager to wipe over surfaces and set out some in a bowl in funky closetsYou can wash drapes curtains in two cups of it after you dry them it don't smellAlso worked on several coats I left in an unused closet  used two cups and it removed musty smell.

Just signed a sales agreement for my 1st rental property....super excited!!!