I had a tenant cut holes into the ceiling so that he could tap into each of 2 neighbors' power lines in order to turn his entire apartment into a hydroponic growing lab.

I have personally used Nimble found it to powerful, easy and streamline. 

It seems to be a power thing for him, and reasonable sense has been thrown out the window.

Next, the power company required a 400 amp upgrade (cant remember) to the electrical which required spending 15k+ just to do so. 

You may have already received some of these tips but others have found them helpful:Start here: http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereFind and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out the BP Podcast: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/Last but not least, don't underestimate the power of participating in the forums!

Remember "Knowledge is Power"Good Luck

rather small because I do have questions, but I'll save those for other parts of the forum so I can get some in-depth insight into those.My deepest motivation behind all this is a rather simple, but powerful thought I had one day.

But the 1031 can be a powerful ally to you.  

Awesome Nick,I can't stress enough how important personal development is and how powerful breaking the norm can be!

And if you are looking to wholesale deals in Waukegan or anywhere in Lake County IL, let me know.Bill Powers