Website optimization was a gamble because of the cost, but on the buying side, it paid off.

I think the house prices will rise even more so people who pay a premium now will at least get to break-even, but that is gambling in my opinion and not a way an investor works. 

Which title offices were chosen.

Don't gamble and hope the house will be worth more when you want to dump it, and even worse, if something happens and you find yourself having to dump it sooner than you thought you would, you've turned yourself in the motivated seller.

Staging is a gamble, but one that normally pays off if the home is priced correctly. 

dont gamble with your parents retirement. side note if you do this on your own you will be a better investor than if you were handed the money and you will feel more accomplished, good luck.

Investing, even in real estate, can be a calculated gamble.  

So I suggest you raise the bar a bit regarding the neighborhood you select in future (but still aim for the same sort of discounts).I find it "interesting" that you've chosen to borrow up to the hilt on your own primary (which generates no income), but are happy to splash cash all around for your investments.Many would suggest you try to redress the balance somewhat, sooner than later.

Honestly, there are a plethora of RE strategies out there, and it seems like you've chosen a couple: Buy and Hold Multifamily and Note Investing. 

The pros and cons honestly vary the biggest consistent pro is the fact that you have potential to get a cheap investment property the consistent con is these properties are generally site unseen so you do not have any clue what you just purchased.Then you have the variables like does the county your purchasing the foreclosure in provide clean title, do they expect you to pay delinquent debts on the property, location of property, rent rate in that area, etc.At the end of the day purchasing at an auction is a great risk if you have capital to gamble otherwise stick with foreclosure