(Although, our duplex more than covers the loss, this property was a means for us improving our financial situation and allowed us to get into the investment game).

Don't forget to complete your profile. 

There are around 40 families moving here every day and we just don't have the space for everyone, so neighborhoods like that are going to start improving whether they like it or now.

And that's another thing to consider...the CDN $ relative to the US is much weaker than it's been in a very long time, although recently it has improved (for CDNs) slightly.  

It doesnt matter what you paid for the house , ALL the improvements were done by THE LOWEST BIDDER .  

I'm sorry that life has thrown you these curve balls right now and I'm glad you're here looking to make an improvement on it. 

I understand - - lived in Cupertino and chased several deals in Sacro.My point is NEVER be the best/highest value on the block - - you improve everyone except yourself and you starve on the vine!

You don't want to end up paying off taxes and improving the place, just to find that the previous owner comes back and redeems it.

I have taken the 40H class and looking to sign up for the test for the purpose of; making extra $ in RE --- getting closer to my market --- overall improvement of investing.  

Also, a lot of improvements and value could be added to increase the net cash flow.Anyways, we offered $350,000, they countered at $375,000 and purchase in "as is" condition.