When the market is strong the smart investor usually only buys deals and holds land plays or does new construction etc. to sell out at full value but not hold at the high price levels.

I assume that the other guy is as smart as I am and if I could think of something to try, he would have also. 

A smart investor would run the numbers without the basement income.

You're super smart for not wanting to buy at the high of the market but there still might be some opportunities to find good deals. 

Tie the cabinets together with some glass tile using a bright white grout.  

Don't do any deal until you get smart about this complicated space.  

As you accumulate wealth, following the example of the world's top bankers, and holding 5% of your own wealth in physical gold is a smart insurance policy.

Spot on advice.Additionally, smart thinking to post these craigslist details here for us to chat about Matthew.

I will do a backsplash with modern glass tile(once I find it on sale, $6 a square is ouch).

I am a new investor as well looking to purchase my first property soon and my advice to you would be for you to educate yourself and make smart financial decision with your money , keep the future in mind and figure out your niche,meaning the direction you would like to go in real estate.