Text him something like "water is coming from under your door...if you still live there please let me know and handle it otherwise let me know so I can go in and address the issue." 

How is the employment rate in your market, especially compared to itself historically?

I've recently seen 2% deals here.Let's look at Brockton's numbers compared to South Boston.In 2013, there were 135 units sold, with an average price of $224,022 and 62 days on market.In 2016, there were 234 units sold, with an average price of 332,541 and 71 days on market.3 bed rentals in Brockton over the last 3 months averaged $1,783.Strong appreciation at 48% over those same three years, but with a price point only 26% of South Boston, you can buy about 4 times as many properties with the same capital investment, which should increase your cash flow, diversify risk and get you solid price appreciation.

It took three years of ramp up and special properties (we were on water with both and put boats on lifts in the back yard and rented them as well). 

I've never tried it, but you perhaps could lock the water meter or the electric meter or set up some kind of alert to show change in use.#6. 

The materials used in making these drive the quality and the cost;  - Particle board (and there are different grades of this) is the cheapest  - Plywood is better (again different grades)  - Solid Wood is best (and again different types)Water is the enemy of wood in general and cabinets specifically due to humidity and leaks so I prefer solid wood frame with plywood decks / shelves.

I am looking to pick from 3 or 4 mid sized markets in order to test the waters. 

Avg sales price in Dickson this last quarter was 141k.Cheatham County which is where Pegram is, has seen 91.18% growth in the last year, leading the counties in Mid TN in growth (these counties are compared to themselves not to other counties).

Interest rate is certainly important for your personal finance reasons, but not really that important for getting that next mortgage compared to everything else.

I've kept above water for 15 years so I'm not failing.