I leave lights on, radio playing inside the house, signs indicating security systems on property and also ask my friends and neighbors to keep an eye out, and let them know when I have a vacancy.

I took a look at your profile and noticed you played hockey at MSU.

@Ned Carey , thank you for pointing out that there are a lot of factors that play into how much you can save with a short sale.

I have a lot of experience working with clients in all categories from experienced investors all the way to first time buyer/sellers, whether it's with REOs, HUD homes, foreclosures, or regular sales.When I'm not working, you'll find me traveling, at sporting events (even when our teams are horrible), trying out a new restaurant, playing my guitar, going to see some of my favorite classic rock bands in concert, or getting some culture at the different museums around town.If I wasn't a Realtor, I think I would be starting a restaurant or trying to come up with the next big idea to make people's lives easier.I joined BP because I'm interested in networking, finding new clients to work with, and of course continuing my quest for constantly learning new things.If you think I might be a good connection, or at the very least a nice person, then I would love to talk!

As I mentioned, I got bored at work and started playing with the numbers.

I actually would say that the high end condo market in and around Boston is a better appreciation play then most other options locally.

Played with your pics a bit...

I did not see your above post before the thread slipped from my screen (and mind).You can have a Self-Directed TFSA, just like you can have a Self-Directed RRSP.You can write private notes and mortgages in your self-directed RRSP - there are rules around the percentage of your holdings and the arms-length nature of the mortgage ... then there is the trouble of getting your plan holder to play along.My initial research on Self-directed TFSAs seems to indicate you should be able to do something similar.

We also maintain a rent register, bank records, and other documentation that would come into play if the tenant should try to contest the unlawful detainer ruling.

Spent 125K, only got 50K on the refinancing. 75K stuck on the property... not fun...I believe the way to play with refinancing is to get an open mortgage or a closed mortgage for 1 year, and after renos/appreciation refinance with another bank.