I was told that a lease option was my best bet in my position but I would like to fully understand the whole lease option deal.

I am also in baltimore and can tell u anything that "costs 4500" better involve something incredibly significant, id be willing to bet your problem isn't worth anywhere near that much money .

@Susan ManekYour best bet is to find other solo 401k and/or IRA investors that would be welling to lend to your solo401k.

If you think the market has more to run though, an index fund that tracks the S&P 500 is probably your best bet, or a roth IRA

Definetly a lot to get done but if you start taking action I bet you'll have another project to do what it appears you love to do and make a craftsman home with your own hands with your own great design touches.  

I have a credit union that will do 95% LTV with no PMI, so that may be our best bet.  

Your best bet will be to go down to the foreclosure auctions in each state and ask around to find out if there are any local services.

Just starting out and am looking at my first Investment property.I am confused between single family homes vs a condo.What is a better bet for a buy and hold investment and I want to rent it out. 

Sounds like your best bet would be to continue the same arrangement until the value and mtg balance line up, so they can finance it.

I guess your best bet is to call local REO agents and find out.