More and more investors are choosing this delivery method in our markets as they typically get the biggest bang for their buck this way and virtually eliminate they need for any change orders which can get out of hand without and good well defined scope of work and complete set of construction documents.One recommendation that I can make without hesitation is to be certain that you use only DC experienced and licensed general contractors when you bid it out, as I have seen lots of developers/investors get delayed due to regulatory issues associated with stop work orders and the like because a lot of contractors don't know the process and the system in DC.

Now a value add is cheap because you are paying low to begin with making the forced appreciation worth your time.The biggest mistake I see people do though is pay a premium and say I am going to do this and this and this and then the property will be great.

Note you may want to save for a higher reserves fund.Common Utilities - Looks like your doing this already by hardening your rentals.One of my biggest bangs for the buck has been removal of all outside water bibs/faucets ;) no need to have tenants washing all their cars or watering the lawn.

The down side is that we cannot work with wholesalers or buy pursue cash-only purchases.Option 2 – Save up until we have enough in our real estate capital fund to buy a house and do any repairs in cash.

One of my biggest problems has been properly locating and finding the correct information on the owner to make a solid connection.I have tried a few different ways like looking up the owner's name on the internet and whitepages.com although neither has really proven to be productive.

So basically if you only wanted $1200 and you price your unit at $1400, you'll get what you wanted anyway, plus an easy eviction when the time comes.The down side is more annual repairs.

In the land of no income or sales tax (New Hampshire), the property taxes are probably the biggest source of income for the state so the rates are rather high (think ~$26 per thousand assessed).

The biggest advice I can give is be very patient and take your time.

There is a lot of helpful information here.First I would head over to CT REIA, they are the biggest REIA in New England and there are a lot of great speakers there.I would always suggest to start a business plan, and follow the plan.

Now Midtown and Corktown are picking up.The biggest hurdle facing the neighborhoods in Detroit has been the abysmal level of public services, especially lighting, fire and police.