I pay the contractor or subcontractor based on jobs completed (typically in three draws), and I make sure the materials are chosen by me or by a designer (low cost) if high end.Once everything has been detailed, I send the contractor to home depot to pick up the materials as needed (home depot usually calls for my credit card when the contractor is checking out) and the billing for materials is handled through my home depot card. 

I will add all three books to my reading list.  

During the last year I've been looking at properties in my area and started working with a realtor about three months ago.  

I recently sent my second campaign of direct mailers and I have 4 leads out of it but three of them are people that are curious as to how much I would be willing to offer for their property.

I recently sent my second campaign of direct mailers and I have 4 leads out of it but three of them are people that are curious as to how much I would be willing to offer for their property.

What to do First As a New Investor:We believe that we’ve got some pretty great places for beginners to start learning about Real Estate Investing - here are three free and easy ways to get started today:Listen to The BiggerPockets Podcast - Just download a couple of episodes and conveniently start learning about Real Estate Investing on the way to and from work, the gym, or anywhere!

What to do First As a New Investor:We believe that we’ve got some pretty great places for beginners to start learning about Real Estate Investing - here are three free and easy ways to get started today:Listen to The BiggerPockets Podcast - Just download a couple of episodes and conveniently start learning about Real Estate Investing on the way to and from work, the gym, or anywhere!

I believe it goes back to what the agent said individuals who have been pre-qualified but when the bank makes it's final decision they don't meet the criteria of having enough for closing and three months of the mortgage in savings people or the other numerous stipulations. 

Financials need to show sufficient cash flow, paying obligations in priority, financing, taxes, insurance, investor's principal contribution, operational expenses then allowances for maintenance and vacancy.  

So carrying cost is huge.Also, the house is very unique for Chicago - Spanish Villa type home (stucco exterior) and the driveway is shared by three other houses.