There's a fantastic book called Cadillac Desert which explores the history of water in the West.

(I ask this because my current tenants pay me by only TWO methods that are SAFE for me--electronically/online or direct deposit in a special bank account)--are appliances tenants or owner's?

A popular method is also finding a seller who will finance part of your purchase (seller "carryback".)

There would need to be substantial equity in the home for this method to work as you will only be able to refi at 70%-75% LTV so the home better be worth around say $175k. 

With that being said if you get lucky you can hut the ball farther out of the park with this method, on a ROI basis, then any straight RE play.I am not sure if this helps you, but hopefully it gives you another perspective on your potential deal.Good luck,Arlen

Calling code enforcement because you do not like his screening methods isn't very nice.You mentioned he likes money so I don't see why he would sell. 30,000 today is better then $400 a month right.

I do know investors that use this method.  

It is a fantastic tool.

Fill in the foundation below.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

Can someone share some advice on whst marketing methods I should use.Thanks, Lawrence