Verify that property passes the Self Sufficiency test *this is a rule for multi family properties purchased using FHA.

I'm trying to learn and understand how to invest with other peoples money and how to raise capital.

obviously new windows will raise the value of the house and the amount of money you can borrow against that house 

Dust creates lots of rough spots so test how dirty the floor is with a hand test prior to coating.  

Question 5Line 314 Authorization for Appraisal, Inspections, and testsDo I just list all tests that I want to have authorized?

If you 1099 the money, they have to pay taxes on it ... so it will be a good litmus test for you to see how your contractor(s) react.Also, it may not be the worst idea to create a business entity of some kind ... eventually, it could make your taxes a little easier to manage (so you don't have to do one enormously scary tax return)Edit: try to find a CPA that is familiar with REI, that will make questions like this easy to answer in the future.

There are many debates on BP about the Bay Area, and when going into any purchase the ultimate test is deciding if it fits your long-term plan.The San Jose market and Oakland have the spectrum of duplexes.

As long as your internet is fast (go to www.speedtest.net and click the "Play Button" to test it.

I doubt the members want to allow a bank to take over the entire co-op if they default on a loan either...The options seem to be limited to members raising enough money to do the loans inside the community or the current owners doing owner finance.There could possibly be some combination of those worked out.What about renting? 

"The Millionaire Next Door"  may be one that interests you as well, it debunks through test studies what makes a true millionaire and explains how many around us who may appear to be a millionaire are actually not nearly close to where they could be financially.