Hi Andrew, Canton or Federal Hill areas are desirable because many young professional want to live there meaning you'll tend to have a nice pool of potential renters.

I also understand that low income places are risky because the type of tenants that are  attracted to the lower priced properties tend to thrash the place.

Acting as a principal in a transaction and also being a member in an LLC as a partnership I don't believe the problem in CaliforniaI tend to buy as a principal in a subject to or A wrap aitd 

The problem is I generally hate almost every color on these solid block homes (I tend to think most dark colors look really bad on block), and the green was the only one I've seen that I've liked.  

People tend to be more eager to help if they can see your face.Next, if you haven't already, I suggest you start at the beginning by taking a look at the Start Here page: http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereThen make sure to take the wise advice of @Larry Fried and read through the BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide Once you are done with those, the BiggerPockets Podcast is another great way to build your real estate knowledge while doing every day activitiesFinally, use the forums!

They tend to pool investors money and give them the return and then live off of the points charged on the loans.  

I'm guessing if this is the case though, they would have already used it as a negotiating point.....or they may just spring it on your father in law after closing.But as to the fee, since it was undisclosed and acknowledged specifically to and by the buyer, I'd tend to not pay it.  

You can have you agent check into the matter, but, as previously mentioned, the banks tend to care little about chattel.

I'll have to agree with Jay here as properties that are listed to the public will have many offers, as the highest tend to be all cash. 

There tends to be a good amount of equity (50%+, e.g. a $15,000 note on a $30,000 house) so you still come out ahead after paying fees to foreclose and sell the property.