Real estate can be a great way to keep more of your money on your balance sheet, even if it isn't in cash.

At this point, I don't think they will pay the balance of the judgement (still over a thousand--this is their game, to make a few lowly partial payments to stave off eviction).

with lease option can I use the rent payments towards the actual balance not just $100-$200 credits?

Good to think about work/life balance early on....One of my key early realizations echoes all three posts above: find a few good, reliable, affordable (all tough--especially affordable and available) contractors if you will be in it long term (and hope to have some work life balance).

@Nicholas PatrickHi NicholasIf you are interested in real estate, learn how to run a business and be able to understand financial statements, income statement and balance sheet, cash flow.  

I'd like to have a balance of cost and quality.

Rich Dad Poor DadRich Dads Cash Flow QuadrantRich Dads Increase your financial IQThe Real Book of Real EstateThe ABC’s of RE InvestingThe ABC’s of PMRich Dad RE Tax AdvantagesThe E-MythThe 4 Hour Work Weekhttp://flip2freedomacademy.com - free e-bookFlip2freedom episode 77[http://www.flip2freedom.com/a-3-step-formula-to-a-successful-balanced-and-insanely-profitable-2012/] - podcast - LISTEN TO THIS TODAY!

How did you folks learned to strike the right balance? 

@Dan Mackin sounds like its all about finding a balance between too much information and not enough.  

I also have a brick front , and it sucks up the heat  ( great in winter)  My front door in the late afternoon , if you touch it you will burn your hand .It was worse until I added a vent fan in the attic and I tinted the front windows , I also have a window unit in 1 bedroom so I could balance the ductwork to send more to the living areas.