It is as he says it is, and when he talks about gaining 10-15 points in 2 weeks, or someone responding in a certain fashion in a certain timeframe, he's always right.   

as home inspector, of course i would recommend to have one done. a second set of eyes will almost always find something you over looked and you then have professional proof of what needs to be done. not only could this be used as a bargaining chip but you now has a complete, professional list of what needs to be done. of course, along the way, you will pick up on things the inspector does and will become better at finding things on your own, but especially with your first few flips, it is necessary. for any one here on BP that is in the western new york area, please see my profile and call me if you have need of a home inspector

OK, but when is "break even" 2 years, 3 years, 5 years... remember a true investor is looking ROI on cash on cash/risk/ etc...But if you just want to park your money then i guess do the old fashion way

Not every part of the country had a bubble in prices like Florida and the western states did.If you're interested in RE, it's worth driving around your area and looking at some foreclosures and seeing what the list and sold prices are.The 2% rule is tough--I'm more partial to the 1.5% rule.

In my area (Western Wisconsin), I have to be a member of NAR, the state and local associations.

New construction and/or rehabbed extensively with top notch quality, design, and "fashion" in mind.

(In Western Oregon, with all the rain, every drop of weater is still owned by someone.)

Tile patterns and colors seem to change as much as fashion and you'd have to hit the lottery to find a perfect match for the tile in need of repair

Your issue seems to be with the guy being lazy and not a) refunding your deposit in a timely fashion and b) not providing you an accounting of charges.

If not, you can always go to the local courthouse and request the records the old fashioned way.Good Luck with the eviction!