I have electrical, plumbing, HVAC, pest control, chimney, etc coming in to do work, and I verified they are all licensed, bonded, and insured.

Or is it completely personal as to what makes the difference between "I got my moneys worth." and "I barely pulled out by the skin of my teeth."?

Are you licensed, bonded or certified by any independent agencies?

It seems to me that low income residents have a stronger family and community bond than higher income residents.

Well, As a wholesaler myself working for a larger company, though the small time guys can sometimes provide property a little cheaper, they can not get better homes, they dont have the relationships, infrastructure, not licensed, insured, bonded, No real backing, and most likely wont be around in the business for any real length of time.

Most mortgage money comes from bonds issued and as Bryan mentioned, are holding up the capital requirements.Mortgages in default are not shown at their face amount as assets.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, take a reputable, liscensed bonded and insured contractor with you to get a bid on the fix up.

Not worth it IMHO there are better deals and dealing with the IRS is like pulling your own teeth so I would find another deal.

I'm on our local school board and they are developing a bond proposal for new athletic facilities, classroom additions, etc.  

Like with bonds, the building's value is a function of the return, which in this case is fixed by the lease.