I know a lot of people thought the game was over and went into different fields when they thought the downturn was over, or thought they couldn't compete any longer.

True, you will end up loosing some properties that you could have offer more and still be good deals...but that's the game.

I would invest the upfront effort in self-education (there are a variety of books which will provide you a good primer on real estate in Canada and you have already found one of the more useful sites on the Internet).Once you know which area(s) of real estate investing are of interest to you, look for a local real estate investors association or meeting in Winnipeg and attend an event or two.  

Sales is a numbers game.  

I get that you have a limited timeframe to utilize your new credit line, and game plan, but also understand that the gurus don't always have your best personal finance interest in mind when they helped you get 8 credit cards. 

Welcome to the game Courtney!

We could always try it on a couple of units (it's only doors and shutters) and see what it looks like but it would be inefficient getting it done, purchasing paint, etc.I asked my wife to find some pictures on the internet and she can't find any, which likely shows that it is not common.  

Learn a bit, then get in the game sooner than later. 

It is a GREAT way to get started learning the REI game wile making some money (and some free rent) with hardly any money out of your pocket!

It's just part of the game, if you decide to play.