Shella...I think I can help u knock a lot of the repair costs down.

My question to the people of the BP community...What other ways can I build connections and find clients to represent other than simply knocking on doors?

If you knock out that fireplace, you have room to put a decent size kitchen in there.

@Ronald WallisWhile I am knocking on Grant, you also have to understand that he is a "hype man." 

But if someone is living there, you could knock on the door and ask them to let you come in and take a look.

That being said, I haven't had much trouble renting it out and have not (knock on wood) encountered the tenant from hell. 

Have you ever had success writing letters or knocking on doors?

Based on this info and my understanding of IRS rules, I believe just using the $149,500 number is safe since it's a little less than than the FMV and it's easy to trace back if the auditors ever come knocking on the door. 

Knock on the door.

I tend to think MLS listings have already been reviewed/passed on by more savvy RE agents/investors but not necessarily.Also, good ol' door knocking and "driving for dollars" might turn up something worthwhile.Good luck, there's a lot out there if you can find it!