No idea what the $650 is for.very fast talker and gets upset really easily when you question his service.

They do consider any option consideration paid as part of the down payment and allow seller-concessions for closing costs and non-repair items (like a landscaping allowance).  

Are landlords required to keep the security deposit in a non-personal account?

You could do a non-recourse loan with a 30-year amortization and come out cheaper than the $50k.  

Anyone has any recommendations for a good certified well contractor that services the twincities area?

I am thinking we should do those last as the non-recourse lenders seem to be the least picky about where the down payment comes from.There are 2 duplexes that we (3 way partnership) are planning on using commercial lending for.

When I was 13 I started my own landscaping company in NJ (Divine Landscaping) and just recently started a video production company (Non Stop Productions).Through the 4 years I have been in Raleigh, NC I have seen an enormous change in real estate and I am tired of sitting back and watching other investors get rich quick. 

Although, I don't really know what you're paying for this service.

@Daniel PattersonDefinitely check out Frank's book like Roy mentioned, but we typically use Cash-On-Cash Return, Cap Rate, and Cashflow after all expenses, renovations, and debt service.

Who places and later removes  the sign in the front yard (some brokers pay a service to do this)?