I'd definitely like to get into places with positive cash flow, it's just that I've looked at my current place as a more of a long term investment with minimal cash flow.

Make your landscaping project into one that will attract future tenant, inspire the neighbors, and minimize your water bill.

If you're into a REI for the appreciation and the cash flow is minimal, how much can tax deductions, and amortization actually help you on your personal returns - what are some basics math figures one can use to do some quick math on a property's investability and tax strategy Thanks in advance

Jocie Moore - My first peice of advise to anyone looking to starting investing is to get your own personally finances in order first (minimize expenses, get out of debt, maximize cash flow, maximize income potential, understand your true goals, etc. . ).

My plan is to buy a multifamily that needs minimal work and live in one of the units.

Some states and RE Commissions allow a minimal amount, like ten dollars to be on hand for the maintenance of the account, that makes life easier if allowed.What happens when you withdraw part of the funds, not the exact amount held, is that the remaing amounts immediately upon such transaction could be seen as income earned by the account holder, if so, you have just comingled earned income with your escrow account!

Many you would never even think of with minimal experience.

I'm discussing this option with the seller so I can do a pre-contract appraisal and hopefully minimize the uncertainty for everyone.

But it's not like I can pick and choose, because the renters around here are just awful.I always show my house when it's still occupied to minimize vacancy

Once you have substantial money typically hundreds of thousands or more in cash you do not want to place in such risky investments.If you do it is a small part of your overall portfolio it minimize risk.