I used the cash to pay off the final bit of my credit card debt to improve my credit score even more (it's currently at a low 700) so I can qualify for lower interest rates.  

I would also be making phone calls to some quality painting companies and ask them about this, what the pros and cons are and what the cost is likely to be "ballpark".

I am looking to make some connections and offer a helping hand to any professionals looking for someone to tackle low hanging fruit with the intention of sharing some wisdom. .Contact me or guide me to any local events.

Pros- It has good schools, is very stable and has a low crime rate.

I just found a house online that sold for something stupid low like $12k.

Wilmington, NC is not a low priced market.  

Im researching a couple of properties and the Zillow estimate for rent seems really low.

I would first check what the building is assessed at. 3-4k in taxes for a mixed use building seems crazy low.

my rule, others may say otherwise but I'm not in the volume game, real estate is my current Business, and I prefer quality over quantity.....just fits my style best.

In today's very low interest rate environment, something in the 6-8% interest rate range usually works for both parties.