More expensive to replace and harder to modify than modern plastic variety In my opinion these aren't necessarily the deal breakers, as many people successfully own older homes, my friend being one (late 1,800s).  

It will help you to know there are many forums available on a wide variety of subjects.

BP is a great place to network and meet a variety of individuals in the real estate arena.  

Our research revealed the old owner was incarcerated and there attempts by the county to notify him failed.

@Luncy Jeter I find leads through a variety of ways.

@Brian Fournier There are a variety of tools depending on what you need.

I did recently send out a LOI which I will reveal later, but would like to hear any and all thoughts or questions first.

In old homes every wall you open will reveal even more problems than you started with.

I would put him in the good friend category, I would be doing this for profit more than helping a friend, so this would be of the business venture variety.

My wife and I manage three dozen properties for a variety of partners and investors.