Some additional info that I hope addresses some of the questions:@Cory LaChance I actually refinanced under the 3-month mark (see the timing listed on my original post). 

I looked into purchasing a fourplex and a duplex in the area, and when I actually saw it in person, I was almost scared to even be there.

The tenant has expressed multiple times the desire to change things (paint) but never actually did so I am taking this with a grain of salt and told her we would discuss again when she is ready to move forward.Whenever that tenant moves out, I would probably have to replace the current carpet due to age and mini blinds are also old (but functional), which is why I am considering the idea.In any case, I would be reviewing quotes, finances and contractor and figure out a way to make sure the work will be finished before I OK the change.

These are great ways to network with people actually working the markets you are looking to deal in.  

Not at the moment I actually just moved several properties but am working on a couple deal right now.

They said It turns on and produces some heat but not enough to actually cook anything.

On the other hand, the Mercedes Benz plant is actually in a much more rural town outside of Birmingham proper- which means that, while people could live closer to work, they often prefer to live closer to the city - somewhere in between downtown and the plant.

I am actually looking for a job with a flipper in the Kansas City area so I can earn and learn while I get my business going.  

Actually strict registration and inspection laws were passed at least as early as the 1990s in MD and maybe earlier elsewhere like Massachusetts.

Of course, your property may be assessed way over its actual value, in which case you should appeal your assessment.