I would like to really utilize this site to network with like minds and learning as much as possible with those that has "Been There And Done That", :D .

It's not really like Napster, they would be offering copyrighted material.

Cost estimates must include labor and materials sufficient to complete the work by a contractor.

I have a couple that I am looking at and negotiating on so I am hoping that one of them will materialize into my first purchase!

What I ended up doing was becoming basically self employed in the rehab business to feed me with something a little nicer than beans and to pay little luxuries like utility bills.

Do you have some magic formula for gaining a real estate education without educational materials (of course other than using the internet)?

Of course, the $850 quoted could just as easily INCLUDE a total amount WITH the utilities figured in (even if the tenant pays them separately).

I work in DC, so I know costs may be higher here than other parts of the country, but just looking for general estimates of labor + materials: 1) Kitchens: what should I assume for cost per linear foot (incl. cabinets--uppers and lowers, countertops (granite), sink, fixtures.

Lets look at an example.Assumptions180k purchase price5% downContractor comes in and says for materials and labor he can do the job for 35k.Assesor values the house at 260k ARV.So 180K - (down payments 9k) + renovation costs 35k = 206k.So would the value of the loan be 206k , 30 yrs fixed.

You would need an additional $10K or so of your own cash to cover the excess of the rehab over the loan amount ($3K), the points (about $4.5K), and your holding costs (taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.