This means you won't see as consistent a return, but your upside (and downside!)

 @Stanley Kong I just received 1 month notice in my duplex yesterday and I believe I will list for 1200, I try to Keep things clean and performing well and it will be at the top of the range with a monitored security system and dishwasher.

Aren't you paying to perform the background check on them?

Right now they are relying on you, the crowd, to perform the due diligence that they miss.

About the only place I've found something that might potentially cash flow near where I live (the valley, so west of you it sounds like) and would have consistent occupancy (not farm country) is Oxnard.

We performed nearly $15,000 in repairs on this one and had it leased within 2 weeks of completion.Rented for $800 a month and Sold to a very happy investor for $70,000.Our Trust Deed Investor received an 11% return in less than 6 months and our Cash Flow investor purchased a great, renovated property with equity with an initial 10% return.

He wrote an EXCELLENT and classic article years ago on performing due dilligence on all real estate.

@Daniel Mohnkern @Steve Babiak     Since the tax bill is due Sept 1 and according to the tax records they have consistently paid the bill during the 1st week of September, I'm thinking that the mortgage company has already received a bill for the taxes well before now and is already aware of the due date and amount.

Not sure I could perform a delayed financing ( cash out refi).

To be considered income, to I have to be a registered contractor in Kansas and/or insured (if the contractors that actually perform the work are both of the above)?