I've been listening to the bp podcast and I know there are some very well established investors here.

@Micah CopelandThe tenants all pay a majority of the utilities?  

This is where I put all my expenses for technology, utilities (cell phone), training, licenses, etc...these expenses can't be tied directly to a specific property.

Expenses such as roof, utilities that serve the entire building, and other building wide expenses are expensed on a pro-rata basis.

Plus my bills (including utilities) would be around $1,500 or more a month even with such a cheap house because of the low down payment.

These are private meters that "we" own and are not provided by the utility companies. 

I know of a few investors who have bought properties by calling the local banks directly, establishing an informal relationship, and buying direct.6-Non-performing notes prior to auction-- I personally have had success, and know of other investors who have been able to contact the banks PRIOR  to the foreclosure sale, make an offer, and get it accepted.  

I am unaware of this being utilized by companies, the smallest companies we dealt with were still decent sized hedge funds.

My recommendation is still for an XMPP aware server (why re-invent the wheel, use an proven and long established chat server) and then allowing BP members to use their own chat clients.  

Also, is establishing that JV running amok of anything in the current regulatory environment?