Labor prices will vary based on many things:- Location- Time of Year- Skill of Contractor- Insurance/Licensing of Contractor- Finish Level- Your Negotiating Ability- Etc.That said, as Joel pointed out above, if you're paying RSMeans prices, you're way overpaying for the typical low- to mid-level rehab.

Discount brokers are "order takers" with no negotiating skills.

You might think that just comes from working harder longer, but not so much as smarter.I'm afraid this is getting way to long, but it will tie together....You must set up your business that is appropriate for your skills, financing capacity, the population served, the market for your product and be able to compete against the alternative opportunities your customer base may have.

It is a skill to do this stuff without creating personalized challenges with people, but learning this skill is a better way to do business in the long run.

I don't know the market on Long Island very well, but there are certain to be pockets in and around that are great for finding positive cash flow -- ultimately, finding distressed deals is a skill that works anywhere . . . you just need to know how to do it.

I'm at the point now where I'm tempted to feel discouraged but I just get out there every day and do it.I'm interested in learning how to hone my skills and networking with other investors (local and otherwise).

While it may not be the most efficient way, it has worked for us and helped diversify our skills as investors.

I've stayed close to home to hone my skills in a less favorable area, kind of like jogging with angle weights on.

Adjusting comparables to the subject property is the skill and art portion.

I've been a part-time investor for years, but now looking to improve my skills and holdings.