<a href='http://www.zillow.com/research/landlord-profit-7357/'><img alt='BarDash ' src='http://public.tableau.com/static/images/La/LandlordProfit/BarDash/1_rss.png' style='border: none' /></a>

I did the "live in and flip" model on a duplex in Oakley.

You must drink coffee like it's going out of style.  

I know that is not a primary driver behind the renting model but if you're in a boat why not have the wind at your back instead of against you?

If the walls are not balloon frame and there are not too many cross-blocks, we could try to retain the inner walls and inject insulation, but the more of these we do, the less it seems to save us in the end ... the cost of drywall and mudding versus an effective air sealing and application of insulation.It has also been our experience that while materials are cheaper to air seal using poly & caulking and insulate with mineral wool, the labour required pretty much make it a wash with the cost of closed cell foam.Once we confirm our plans, I'll do a full envelope model on the house and share my results.  

The definition of a 'deal' is very relative to your goals, your experience, your business model, the amount of time you have, and the amount of cash you have.For me, I might see a flip listed on the MLS as a good deal.

I think it all depends on the Individual learning style, I personally would pay significantly more to not have to sit in classes.

There is a rental next door that is also the same style duplex (built by the same developer) going for $850 (1 unit in that duplex is already rented) and other sales in the area (SF) going for $89k.It's a college town and from sites like zillow the rents look to be $850-$1.2.

Beyond that there are many different style and types of investing.

It is much easier to find leaks using air with a larger air compressor (3.0 CFM or larger, not pancake style) because it puts out enough air that you can sometimes hear it coming out of a split pipe.