Because of that, we don't get the mass production capabilities like the auto industry that can drive down costs.

Competition isn't real -- if you have a good product and there are customers for that product, you can succeed.You get off market deals by contacting people that are off market and seeing if they would sell. 

Consult a good lender like Upen Patel to get the right product.

Numbers first, then neighborhood, and finally level of renovation/product.

The problem I ran into was finding a finished product that would command the price needed to make sense.

Personally there is no way that I would string someone along, fail to deliver a product, have them say forget it, tell them they are paying anyway, Have them say fine, I'll still do it, then tell them "to bad" I no longer want you and you are still paying. 

http://www.egresswindows.com/product/Easy-Egress-K...This kit is $ 1100.00       Plus labor     with digging , tying into drain tile , and installing window , I would be closer to $ 3000  to $ 3500  .

His company, Spartan Invest, has a very nice product and they are honest people who are easy to work with. 

If you see some movement, you could refinance with a fixed product through your bank or credit union.

There are going to be setbacks and unexpected obstacles, but you can enjoy the finished product, if you keep at it.