Try to stay close to the median home price for that city. 

So on numerous occasions, I have expressed my concerns about staying within my budget.Now on top of this, the property manager let the pipes freeze and they leaked and the boiler also cracked which I was told to file an insurance claim.

Most owners are local and therefore “hot” money or out of area players are not yet chasing Pittsburgh assets, keeping prices favorable.References United States Census Bureauhttp://www.cmu.edu/news/stories/archives/2017/august/economic-impact-report.htmlMarcus & Millichap 2017 Multifamily Investment Forecast2017 Commercial Real Estate Trends Report by Integra Realty Resourceshttp://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/Pittsburgh-Magazine/September-2017/Staying-CMU-All-Eyes-on-Carnegie-Mellons-Future/http://www.nextpittsburgh.com/features/pittsburgh-developments-watch-2017/

This way I get paid upfront for my work 1-2k plus I know I have another payday at some point in the future if the deal closes.The costs to fully develop a property and sell for near retail usually involves the costs below and takes 2-6 months or more in some cases, but the profits can be huge if you're working in markets where land costs are high:Title 200-400Legal 500-2000 depending on zoning issuesIf wetlands are present AND its a buffer zone project: 2000-5000Perc & septic design if needed 1500-3000Treescaping & cleanup for retail sale 500-1500Selling costs of 6%I tend to stay clear of properties that need more than the above expense items.  

Stay consistent, set clear goals, and remember real estate is a long-term game that rewards patience and persistence!

I've had a few of those where they stayed 4 years and were pretty easy on the house. 

I told them they could stay there at no charge till the bank evicted them and made them sign a hold harmless.

I would stay away at all costs. 

Stability: Homeowners tend to stay in their homes longer than renters, which can create a more stable environment for families and children.

The lessons you learned the hard way in 2008 will be invaluable now, and it’s great that you’re aiming to stay small-scale and within your comfort zone of Sacramento, which gives you an advantage of knowledge in that market.Given your experience, I'd say start by focusing on three key areas to build confidence and minimize risks:Budget Control: Over-renovating was one of the big mistakes you mentioned.