I will be keeping my day job until there is enough steam in the engine to keep me going.

You may need an architect/engineer anyway.)  

It's insured for $150,000 because that's what it would cost to replace it if the whole thing burned down. 

Just spot checking the search results there are addresses I know are barely standing, partially burned, or boarded up, that they have categorized as "occupied". 

Before I read this book, I wanted to become an engineer, but now I see that Real Estate investing is my passion (primarily rental properties).  

I have never been burned on money or excessive destruction(knock on wood). 

Design/Engineering and build estimates are complete. 

So here's my story.I am a 43 year old systems engineer in Iowa, and am looking to get started with real estate.In addition, I have a 23 year old son who is willing to move anywhere and help out in whatever way he can.   

@Patrick BavaroYea I just mean if u don’t share Th e same furniture, then just let him smoke in the house, it’s not likely he will burn it down.

I think at the heart of all this discontent is the cultural drive of the work force to demand more hours, more availability, more productivity etc. which, as @Jim K. alluded to, is turning once enthusiastic workers to become disheartened and burned out by the increasing demands placed upon them.