Thanks for sharing the details on your purchase I would be curious as well to see how the project went now that we are couple months out?

We decided to get the roof patched for now and got a couple bids from $3k to under $1k, since a new roof was over $10k and we wanted to do all that once after we foreclose with a 100% rehab loan.On top of this, our attorney discovered a release of mortgage was filed in the past, which is what made the homeowner believe there was no money owed.

Good contractors can be hard to find.Here is my advice.I have had great luck finding them at our local real estate investor meet up group.I agree building supply centres can also be a good source.In my experience it is easier to find people to do a big job, rather than small ones.What I have done is formed relationships, where I give them a good big contract and in return they do the small stuff for me.I also have a couple of handyman type people on my team.They are usually doing repairs on the side, often for cash under the table.I only trust the small guys with minor stuff, maybe laying a floor, or replacing a toilet.The key is to build a solid team, do not nickel and dime them, pay them as soon as the work is done.Build a win win situation.

Hoping to link up with a couple seasoned vets in the area for advice and guidance on my first endeavor.

We are into the property $65,000.There are a couple of ways I've thought about doing this:1.

I'd like a couple of recommendations for Sarasota, FL.  

I would like to try to meet up with you in the next couple weeks for a quick intro meeting over a coffee.

But if you buy a building of all studios and 1 bedroom apartments then your renters will more likely be young singles and couples who will want to be near work, restaurants, bars and other entertainment.  

Im looking for someone who can maybe spend a couple hours with me and let me pick their brain.

I have bought a couple of Townhouses for cash for argument sake the generate $2K per month net of HOA fees.