I will not be changing any structure, just simple insulate, sheet rock, run some electrical, etc.

And for what it's worth, Zillow seems to think the ship channel area will do a lot better than Katy for price appreciation https://files.zillowstatic.com... while the 290 corridor seems to be rocking rent appreciation https://files.zillowstatic.com... 

I'm already at rock bottom spending -- house hacking is my only hope right now to lower my costsSo maybe a related question here (can post to a new thread if that's better): What kinds of deals that HAVEN'T made the 1% rule have people nonetheless made work?

But from my experience sifting through forums - some viable options for RE investing seemed to be within: Inglewood, Hawthorne, Arts District, Eagle Rock, Highland Park, etc.

Better to get the project rocking ASAP.

I would tell mom to kick rocks, if she isn’t on the lease, and speak directly with the daughter though.  

The power lines are hanging down in the yard but I don’t see much more besides some mold from roof leaks and the rest would need to be gutted and re-rocked maybe move a wall or two to open it up for what we are looking to do.

@Caleb Bryant I’d definitely take @Joseph Glisson up on that offer, he’s crushing it in Chattanooga! 

It will be announced shortly that a Hard Rock Casino is coming to my hometown in Northern IL with development beginning almost immediately.

I may be stuck between a rock and a hard place.