Does insurance have a role in this instance?

First, I think you'll be surprised to know that, in many instances, Portfolio Lenders today are quite competitive with their long term loans.

Having said that, I have seen many instances where people who have lived in the community for a long time or really their kids lose their homes for back taxes, don't take care of it or don't value it.

In some instances, I would love to serve as property manager and help close friends and family achieve their financial freedom goals as I have been doing.Chris, as the BP expert on PA law I would love to here more of your thoughts once you have a chance to read over the statute again.  

In a number of instances, I've done a skip trace and know the owner listed on the tax record is deceased.

And in some instances the commissions going out can be large and a builder defiantly starts to look at that and discount what they feel the broker is bringing to the table. in our market its 4 to 5% total.. with selling agent getting 2 to 2.5%  out in Charleston were I work the selling agents basically won't bring in a buyer if you don't offer 3% that market has not seen enough broker competition like west coast.AND FSBO  its still very tough and the extra time it takes to find a buyer usually is eaten up in carrying costs.so bottom line whats your time worthfind an agent that is willing to list for a big discount.. and if you get a big discount sometimes it would be appropriate for you to pay for external marketing ( if needed) like big signs and flyers and perma flyers etc.good luck with it.. been good the last few years regardless.

Your mortgage debt will stand as part of your total debt service in both instances, however one lender is not willing to count your rental income until you have been renting the property for 24-months.  

Brian, in this instance you are viewing insurance incorrectly.

For instance, several winters ago a snow removal contractor presented a surprisingly high bill for weekend service (times when the property was not staffed).

so my question is..Could i use section 1031 to my advantage in my particular instance?