Pick a couple of zip codes where you see enough difference between the cheaper houses and the nicely redone houses -- probably $70k difference.  

Hopefully it will appreciate and you can move on up, so just keep it in good condition.You won't get a buy out price if they want it appraised at the end, I doubt it would be worth it as 20 years can be the life cycle of solar panels and then, I bet something cheaper and better will be available, so I wouldn't tie my thinking up about buying it down that long road.BTW, Welcome to BP and congrats on your new home. :)

and generally mid west shops are cheaper than west coast.. just make sure you compare apples to apples.. and get what you need.1. wind and hail2. what happens when my property is vacant for two months or more3. vandalism and theft.. what happens and whats the deductible when someone steals my condenser unit or breaks in and steals all my appliances water heater and copper.those types of things you want to know up front as your buying in a area that will that any of the above could happen to you...

Modular housing will be the wave of the future...so much cheaper, so much quicker.

I know folks who say to call a title company and you can get a list that way cheaper, but you have to scrub the list...

Granted that I can enjoy the tax break from the mortgage interest and it is cheaper to pay mortgage than rent,  I am wondering in the same time if I should sell my house and rent.  

Not sure if it is any cheaper than a pool, but I think the appeal will be broader and it has the potentially to be a "pop" item in a flip.

Cheaper might have been the better word since the 2% ratios seem to be marketed to California people because they have the cash.  

Then do the same thing with a hard money lender and choose the cheaper option  All it takes is a couple of calls.Go make some money !!!

Easier, cheaper and more fact based than your plan.