I haven't considered making a distinction between politics surrounding real estate and the politics of social issues. 

Purchase Price: 180,000County accessor: 1292 (this is where we signed the square footage disclosure)Actual square foot age: 1100 - ARV - 215,000 conservativelyWould buy this house house as a live in flip?

I ended up servicing the loan out of my own pocket for a couple of years--another $400K down the drain but ultimately the rebounding prices will allow me to recover that when I sell someday.Moving on to your questions, which are two distinct questions with different answers. 

I have moved both parents in with me.  We are now clearing out their old home that they lived in for over 60 years.  Before selling the home, they want to complete repairs and updates (est. $60k).   Home in the area a...

IIRC, the backstory is the guy is retirement age and ready to move on.

Daaimah,I think you commitment at an early age is to be wholeheartedly commended.  

On normal deals I looke for $250+, for $0 down I'd be comfortable with $100 but like @Darryl Bass I'd get as many as I could get, but depending on the age of the property.

The homeowner wants to sell due to age and health issues as they were also self managing the properties.Three buildings for a sale price of $165,000 in a northern region of the USTen units in total with rental income of $6,125Expenses are high due to utilities (oil heating) by owner. 

Depending on the age of the property, you may need to reserve large amounts for maintenance.

Age, Incomes, Gender and migration or flight from the areaEmployment- Is it near my market area and will it support an economic base.Infrastructure- How is the status of the local community.