Then just hire an experienced laborer for less than $20/square foot to install.

Though I am a engineer by day, I have had long nights and weekends educating myself, and seeking those that help me in all aspects of business.I look to start my own real estate investing experience in Seattle/Tacoma area within the latter months of the year.

Experienced investors will set aside 50% of the gross income to cover expenses such as vacancy, taxes, insurance, maintenance etc.

I'm an experienced Property Manager with 7+ years of exp managing multiple apartment units ranging from 3 units up to 25 in the San Gabriel Valley.

Look for experienced people on your buyers list, who might benefit from helping you along, especially if you give them "first look" on what you find.

There is advise all over the forums and blogs for new and experienced investors alike.

Make sure you scour the wholesaling forum, there are some very experienced and successful wholesalers there who offer great advice and guidance.

I can't speak for her piloting skills or go-go dancer abilities, but she's a great writer and an experienced investor.I'll stay on the look out for mentors or experienced investors in the Houston area.

Being so new I would the more experienced opinion of the wiser BiggerPockets community.

Being so new I would the more experienced opinion of the wiser BiggerPockets community.Here is my dilemma:I live in Northern California where house prices have hardly dropped and my community has currently 1 house below the $400,000 price.We are near a University and the rental market is always busy.I'm currently looking at two houses.A Duplex that rents for a total 1700 / monthA Fourplex with rents that total 3950 /monthThe duplex, I'm thinking of offering 215k bank wants minimum 235kFourplex I was thinking of offering 400k Banks wants 465kAt these prices my calculations don't seem to cover the 50% rule.I'm doing FHA or Conventional with only %5 down.Doing my calculations, at the prices they are asking I don't even get a Cap Rate of 6% or the 1% rule.What do you guys think?