I'm currently looking at properties in areas such as Watertown, Waltham, Allston, Brighton, etc.There are good deals to be had in those areas, and perhaps even a bit further out if you're willing to sacrifice the commute.Regardless, I'm excited to follow your journey and witness your progress.

Well, you have my number, lol, I've got an idea you'll like I'd bet!

I am willing to bet that more times than not, you find those types of key people at REIAs or thru mutual connections, and also that you find them when you aren't really looking for them.

Listen to the podcasts on your commute, read the blogs and keep us updated on your progress/ask us questions using these forum posts.Best of luck to you!

And I go through the gamut of current and future upgrades/maintenance: tiling the kitchen floor (in progress), new windows come spring/summer, new blinds and curtains, and the few 'fix-it' things that need attending to.  

Sometimes I can look at the name on the appraisal and know it's one of our dudes that gets things in same-day, but I wouldn't bet on that for VA.Closing Disclosure needs to be issued / re-issued.

At the vary lest you should pan on having some cash reserves if something major comes up.While at that price you may be in neighborhoods that have the potential to appreciate, I bet your actual cash flow is less that the $450 a month you project.

Where can I find out if there are any grants, tax benefit programs or private development plans that are available or in progress in certain areas?

You bet.

We do not plan on living here for 30 years and I know not to bet on appreciation so I will do some value add to the house over time and expand it to a 4 bed 2.5 bath with less than a 40k investment, the layout will support it.