(1) That's true for a) commercial 5+ unit property loans and b) what the investors themselves value the property at, not true for how residential appraisers value property for residential 1-4 unit lenders.(2) Excellent, that bodes well for the cash out refinance.(3) Sure.(4) It's easier for agents, because at that point it's not their problem.

I don't think I want to find the 'best' market, but a good market where I can find excellent local execution (buyers agent, property management, contractor, finance team.)

Excellent, thank you!

In both cases the walls/ceilings were in excellent condition structurally & otherwise.

I also enjoyed @Dan Heuschele response and also think he raised some excellent points.

I'd bet you can probably open it in Excel one way or another. 

I work the near southwest suburbs around Berwyn/Forest Park, and know a small property manager who would be excellent.

I have 99% 5 star reviews on VRBO and 100% 5 star reviews on airbnb and just offer excellent customer service and a great vacation experience.

I keep track of actuals vs projections in my own Excel spreadsheets, so quite simple to use.I will add that for rentals, there's the 50% rule that many people post about, and with multiple properties for almost 15 years now, I find that's about true.   

The good news is that she was here to correct and carry on the recipe and the best news is that she was here and in excellent health.Sorry for your loss.