I would suggest working to save as much as possible and if you are planning on waiting a, "year or two," I would start to research the areas you want to be within.Once you have a solid foundation of knowledge and area expertise, then you can pounce on a deal or most likely two!

Once you are absolutely certain nothing downstream is the cause (human or plumbing), then you have a more solid case to ask for the meter to be changed.On a side note:  Around here if you go to the municipality/utility in a humble tone as ask for their assistance in solving the riddle (show them that you have invested the effort to check everything downstream), they will often forgive most/all of the overage.  

Hey gang ~ I'm still looking for good, solid ways to establish a value on a property without spending $300-$400 on an appraisal (which I've found to be as wildly inaccurate as Zillow's zestimates or eppraisal or any of the other online valuation sites!!).

It has the look of wood.

Thanks @David Huynh, we have solid connections in the Twin Cities and my partner already owns some rentals there.

Balsa wood?

It provides an awesome starting point and a solid foundation for someone just starting out. 

Quick contract, nothing major during inspection, buyer is solid and everything closes on time.

Paying off the car loan has no risk.Personally I would not be paying off low interest rate loans as long as the asset was cash  flowing solidly.

North East could mean Trinidad, Dean Wood, Capital Hill, Eckington or anywhere in between.