Am closing on an REO from BofA next week and in contract on another property that is a short sale own by BofA.My question is do you know if BofA have any rules or limit to the number of properties one can purchase from them within a giving time and the reason am asking is because they are the only bank that ask for social security number when you make offers.

At the moment, much of the valley has around a 1-month supply (shortage).

A plumber in Milwaukee bid about $9000 to do some rough plumbing, move a couple supply/drain lines and install new sinks/tubs/fixtures in a 2.5 bath house.I asked him to break down the bid for me so I could understand where the price was coming from.

So I wouldn't use a forms company to secure my legal right to the property.

Buying 600 properties doesn't mean he got 600 houses, he likely bought a large supply of unbuildable land, a lifetime supply of crack houses and perhaps 30 or 40 nice houses.

Materials & supplies are usually for sale at a Mobile Home Supply store.

George,First the number 550 a month in rent.Let's break it down.For the area does the 550 offer first months rent free or half off or a waiver of security deposit.If that is what is a happening with competition for the area then rent is not 550.Let's say it is 500.Now look at the 500 per month.You will need to deduct your rents for crappy stairs to walk up,a sloped parking lot,no amenities,if you do not have a washer/dryer place for hook up etc.Your rate will now be considerably less than the 500 others are charging.If I am a tenant looking for a place I want the level lot,ease of walking into my unit,do not like tenants above me,ample and level parking,amenities,place to do my clothes.Buyers on resale will more likely want a 12% cap.I look at a lot of apartments for clients.This one to me is a pass.It has too many negatives going for it that make it hard to rent and retain long term tenants.Again that can be solved by a below market rent rate to make up for the problems it will still have after rehab.

Richard look up your local real estate investor association.If you go to work for a flipper to learn the business make sure you are not used and abused.Make sure they have completed a certain volume of deals and that they have the knowledge to give you.What investors do not want is to work with someone with no drive who wastes their time.If they will pay you a decent wage that is at least what you are making now or more,you hit it off from the start,etc. then you are on your way.Eventually you can partner with them on some deals when you save up some more cash and they will show you how to save and supplies and do quality repairs and upgrades in a fast manner.

Read links I supplied earlier, explaining about certificates of insurance and that you are to be named as certificate holder or additional insured.

(*I understand that I am taking a risk by owner occupying to secure the loan and then quickly leaving for another building and I can deal with that*) I am also planning on using a HELOC that I have obtained from my primary residence to finance some of the down payment.Any advice or thoughts would be greatly appreciated.