From a RE standpoint WNC relies so heavily on FL and ATL residents as secondary home owners to drive the market.  

As an alternative to using the foundation company to verify, you could also used a plumber to do the pressure test.

A stress test involves preparing for the rare "crisis," a once in a life time event. 

Many investors on here do it every day.You can find properties in southern California and many within an hours drive of SD that you can purchase, renovate and rent.  

Typically where the cut off to a bank wanting to do a loan is $50K and under- becuase the loans have higher fees they hit high cost test quickly!  

Good luck on your test, it's not that bad, I recommend doing the practice test over and over until you average around 85-90% before taking the state exam.

Document everything - and then have said document in hard copy, on a hard drive and in a fireproof safe.  

Comping a property is an art - especially in this market - and takes some time.A comp report is just a start to comping a property, you also have to get out there and drive the comps to see how they actually compare to the property. 

The urge to help her and the urge to strike the best deal for myself will drive me insane.On the other hand, I know I can offer her something that perhaps others can't.- I can offer her a cash deal without financing contingency.- If she does a deal with me, she doesn't have to pay a 6% commission, or deal with open houses and various showings. 

We are "driving for dollars" frequently these days.