Since we are in a number of different states throughout the country we see the market starting to move to new construction due to a lack of supply of product.

I calculated the return last year as schedule C just to see the benefit and there was a substantial return due to the losses whereas schedule E didn't make a big change primarily because my AGI prohibited me from deducting the passive losses under E.

I hope to pay down mortgages aggressively the next 2 years and when I see the local economy begin to recover use the accumulated equity to buy more properties at a deep discount. 

Does everyone see the same pattern?

Getting to the owner before it goes into foreclosure is huge. door knocking can be scary but I do it, give my card to neighbors let them know I want the property next door and If they see the owner can they give them my card..HAPPY INVESTING!!!

You don't see the danger because you've never lived it.

The first time we went to see the property, they had just finished the rough ins.

Wondering, how do evaluate properties from foreclosures, auctions or out of state sales, if you don't have access to see the inside of the property? 

I will tell you that I, along with Hotels, rarely see the buyers broker being offered any commission split because of the demand so often times you will build that into the purchase price or have to pay your broker yourself. 

Picture a big cherry pie, the pie has a basket weave top crust with small openings so you can see the filling.